I1, I2 & I3 Diamonds: Decoding Clarity Grades (2024)

I1, I2 & I3 Diamonds: Decoding Clarity Grades (1)

I1, I2, And I3 Diamonds: Diamonds With Large & Easily Visible Inclusions

I1, I2, and I3 diamonds are all clarity grades on the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) Diamond Clarity Scale. Diamonds with a clarity grade of I1 have inclusions that are noticeable to the naked eye and may affect the diamond’s transparency and brilliance. Diamonds with a clarity grade of I2 have more pronounced inclusions that are easily noticeable to the naked eye, and may affect the diamond’s durability. Diamonds with a clarity grade of I3 have very prominent inclusions that are visible to the naked eye and may affect the diamond’s appearance and durability.

Compared to higher clarity grades, such as VVS1 or VVS2, I1, I2, and I3 diamonds are lower in clarity and may have more visible inclusions. This can affect the diamond’s overall appearance and value, as well as its durability.

Overall, I1, I2, and I3 diamonds are lower in clarity than higher grades, but can still provide good value for money and be a good option for those looking to purchase a diamond on a budget.

They Are Not Very Popular In Sales

One reason why people prefer not to buy I1, I2, and I3 diamonds is because they have a lower level of sparkle and brilliance. Because they have more inclusions, these diamonds tend to have less light reflectivity and may not sparkle as much as higher clarity grades. This can make them less visually appealing and can detract from their overall appearance.

Another reason why people prefer not to buy I1, I2, and I3 diamonds is because they are more susceptible to damage. Inclusions and blemishes in diamonds can act as points of weakness, making the diamond more likely to break or chip. This can make I1, I2, and I3 diamonds less durable and less suitable for everyday wear.

Additionally, people may prefer not to buy I1, I2, and I3 diamonds because they are considered to be less valuable and rare. Because they are lower in clarity, these diamonds are generally considered to be less valuable and may not retain or increase their value over time in the same way that higher clarity grades do.

Overall, people generally prefer not to buy I1, I2, and I3 diamonds because they are lower in clarity and have a lower level of spark.

Below, a picture shows the appearance of an I2 Clarity Grade Diamond

I1, I2 & I3 Diamonds: Decoding Clarity Grades (2)

5 Reasons Not To Buy I1, I2 or I3 Clarity

  1. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds have a lower level of sparkle and brilliance. Because they have more inclusions and blemishes, these diamonds tend to have less light reflectivity and may not sparkle as much as higher clarity grades. This can make them less visually appealing and can detract from their overall appearance.
  2. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds are more susceptible to damage. Inclusions and blemishes in diamonds can act as points of weakness, making the diamond more likely to break or chip. This can make I1, I2, and I3 diamonds less durable and less suitable for everyday wear.
  3. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds are considered to be less valuable and rare. Because they are lower in clarity, these diamonds are generally considered to be less valuable and may not retain their value over time in the same way that higher clarity grades do.
  4. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may have a less attractive appearance. Because they have more inclusions and blemishes, I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may not have the same level of sparkle and brilliance as higher clarity grades. This can make them less attractive and may make them less desirable to some people.
  5. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may not be as desired by some people. Because they are lower in clarity and have a lower level of sparkle and brilliance, I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may not be as desired by some people. This can make them.

Reasons To Still Consider Buying Them

  1. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may still be a good choice for those on a budget. These diamonds may be less expensive than higher quality diamonds, making them a good option for those who want to purchase a diamond but cannot afford a higher quality one.
  2. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may still have a beautiful sparkle and shine. Even though they have inclusions, these diamonds can still reflect light and create a dazzling display.
  3. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may still have unique and interesting inclusions. Some people may actually prefer the character and individuality that these inclusions give to a diamond, rather than a perfectly clear and flawless diamond.
  4. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may be a good choice for those who want a larger diamond. These diamonds may have a larger carat weight than higher quality diamonds, allowing the wearer to have a bigger and more impressive diamond on their finger.
  5. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may still be durable and long-lasting. While these diamonds may not be as hard and resistant to damage as higher quality diamonds, they can still be a good option for those who want a diamond that will last for many years.
  6. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may be a good choice for those who want a unique and one-of-a-kind diamond. Because these diamonds have inclusions, no two diamonds will be exactly alike, making each one truly special and unique.
  7. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may be a good choice for those who want a diamond with a more interesting and intricate cut. These diamonds may have a more complex cut, such as a marquise or pear shape, which can add interest and beauty to the diamond.
  8. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may be a good choice for those who want a diamond with a different color. These diamonds may have a yellow or brownish tint, which can add warmth and depth to the diamond.
  9. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may be a good choice for those who want a diamond with a unique setting. These diamonds may be set in a unique and interesting way, such as in a halo or cluster setting, which can add beauty and character to the diamond.
  10. I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may be a good choice for those who want to support socially and environmentally responsible diamond mining practices. Some I1, I2, and I3 diamonds may be mined in a way that minimizes harm to the environment and local communities, making them a good choice for those who want to make a socially responsible purchase.
I1, I2 & I3 Diamonds: Decoding Clarity Grades (2024)

FAQs

I1, I2 & I3 Diamonds: Decoding Clarity Grades? ›

Included diamonds with a clarity grade of 7, 8, 9, or 10 (I1, I2, or I3), have inclusions that are obvious at 10x magnification. Sometimes, they can be seen with the naked eye. At the lower clarities, may have an effect on the diamond's durability.

Which is better clarity, I2 or I3? ›

I2 stands between the I3 diamond clarity grade (lowest) and the I1 diamond clarity grade (better). Diamonds graded I2 clarity feature noticeable inclusions, easily seen by the eye. At the same time, I2-clarity diamonds have more life and sparkle than lower-clarity I3 diamonds.

Is diamond clarity rating code I1 I2 good? ›

I1, I2, or I3

I1 has the fewest or smallest imperfections, while I2 and I3 have bigger and more noticeable flaws. We recommend sticking exclusively to I1 diamonds. Lower clarity grades will always have readily visible flaws or flaws that can make your diamond break.

Is I3 better than I1 diamond? ›

I1 clarity have the least amount of eye-visible inclusions, whereas I2 diamonds have very visible inclusions. I3 diamonds are the lowest clarity grade possible prior to industrial drill bit use. As the inclusions present in I1-I3 diamonds detract from the beauty of the gems, Do Amore does not sell them.

Is diamond clarity rating code I3 good? ›

The number "3" in the I3 grade indicates its position as the third-lowest within the Included diamond category of the diamond clarity scale. Diamonds graded as I3 have a greater number of imperfections compared to those with higher clarity grades.

Do I3 diamonds sparkle? ›

i3 has the worst inclusions because they result in the diamond being less sparkly and bright.

Do I3 diamonds pass diamond tester? ›

Yes, thermal type diamond testers will indicate that I3 diamonds are diamond or possibly Moissanite, because both materials are excellent thermal conductors. However, Moissanite with clarity as low a I3 would not likely ever be cut (faceted0 into any gemstone.

Are I2 diamonds worth anything? ›

I2 diamond prices are lower than eye-clean diamonds because they have noticeable blemishes and inclusions. Most reliable jewelers don't have I2 diamonds for sale, though, because the quality is so low. Even if you'll save money with an I2 diamond, it's not worth it, as you'll have a stone with blemishes.

What is the most ideal clarity for diamond? ›

The best diamond clarity grade is FL, flawless.

Do I1 diamonds sparkle? ›

Will an I1 diamond sparkle? In most cases, an I1 or lower clarity grade will affect a diamond's fire and brilliance (which many refer to as its “sparkle”). This is because the size and prominence of inclusions in these diamonds are significant enough to obstruct light from passing through the diamond.

Is i3 high end? ›

Intel uses these names to help consumers choose the right CPU for their needs and budget, based on the general rule that i3 is for basic tasks, i5 is for mainstream tasks, and i7 is for high-end tasks.

Are I2 diamonds cloudy? ›

I2 diamonds are 2nd-degree included diamonds with observable imperfections under magnification as well as to the unaided eye. In fact, most I2 diamonds have inclusions that minimize their clarity and brilliance.

Which diamond is better I or G? ›

Is a G or an I color diamond better? In terms of positioning along the diamond color scale, G color diamonds are more valuable than I color diamonds. But both are highly prized diamonds that make great center stones for engagement rings and other jewelry.

What does I2 i3 clarity mean? ›

Firstly, the letter 'I' stands for inclusions or included. Next, the proceeding number '3' represents the third and lowest clarity grade that any included diamond can achieve. By comparison, I2 clarity diamonds are less included, and I1 clarity diamonds are even higher in clarity.

Does the clarity of a diamond really matter? ›

Diamond shape and size affect clarity. While clarity is less important than a diamond's cut or color, if you are buying a diamond over one carat or considering certain fancy-shaped diamonds (like an emerald or Asscher cut where flaws are more visible), you may want to spend more for a higher clarity grade.

What clarity of diamond is best? ›

The best diamond clarity rating is Flawless (FL). These are the rarest diamonds in the world; less than 0.05% of all diamonds are Flawless or Internally Flawless.

Does clarity matter in small diamonds? ›

Clarity and Diamond Buying

For stones much larger than one carat, look for a clarity grade of VS or higher. For stones one carat or smaller, VS or even SI grades are pretty standard. In small stones (those below half a carat), clarity doesn't matter as much. Color grades will be more noticeable.

What carat diamond is best? ›

A 1 carat diamond is a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewellery. However, the appearance of a 1 carat diamond can vary depending on its cut. Generally, a well-cut 1 carat diamond will have a diameter of around 6.5mm, but this can vary slightly depending on the diamond's proportions.

Top Articles
Latest Posts
Article information

Author: Melvina Ondricka

Last Updated:

Views: 6525

Rating: 4.8 / 5 (48 voted)

Reviews: 87% of readers found this page helpful

Author information

Name: Melvina Ondricka

Birthday: 2000-12-23

Address: Suite 382 139 Shaniqua Locks, Paulaborough, UT 90498

Phone: +636383657021

Job: Dynamic Government Specialist

Hobby: Kite flying, Watching movies, Knitting, Model building, Reading, Wood carving, Paintball

Introduction: My name is Melvina Ondricka, I am a helpful, fancy, friendly, innocent, outstanding, courageous, thoughtful person who loves writing and wants to share my knowledge and understanding with you.