Diamond Quality
Color and clarity are two of the four grades on every diamond report. Here is what they mean, and how to choose the balance of size, grade and budget that is right for you. Every Lihara center stone is independently graded by IGI or GIA, and its grades are shown before you choose it.
Understanding Color
Diamond color is graded on a D–Z scale, where D is completely colorless and later letters show a gradually warmer tint. Grading compares the stone to a master set under controlled lighting.
- D, E, F: colorless. Icy white. D and E look identical face-up; the difference shows only under laboratory conditions.
- G, H: near-colorless. White to the eye in almost any setting, and a popular way to put more of your budget into size or cut.
- I, J: near-colorless. A slight warmth that can be visible face-up; often lovely in yellow or rose gold.
Understanding Clarity
Clarity describes internal characteristics (inclusions) and surface features (blemishes). Fewer, smaller characteristics mean a higher grade.
- FL, IF: flawless or internally flawless. Very rare.
- VVS1, VVS2: very, very slightly included. Inclusions are extremely hard to find even under 10x magnification.
- VS1, VS2: very slightly included. Eye-clean for almost everyone: the best value for most buyers.
- SI1, SI2: slightly included. Sometimes eye-clean, depending on where the inclusions sit; check the stone's photos or video.
Choosing Your Balance
For most engagement rings, a G–H color and VS clarity look as white and clean as far higher grades once set, at a meaningfully lower price. If you want an icy, colorless look, choose D–F. Cut matters most of all for sparkle, so prioritize an Excellent or Ideal cut.
Independently Certified
These are not self-reported grades. Every center stone we offer comes with an IGI or GIA report, verifiable on the laboratory's website.
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