When you buy a diamond, the certificate shows grades like VVS2, VS1, or SI1. However, the term “eye-clean” is never listed.
What does eye-clean mean?
It means you cannot see any inclusions with your naked eye. No loupe, no magnification—just the sparkle of the diamond as it appears naturally.
Interestingly, both VVS2 and SI1 diamonds can be eye-clean. The main difference is price. Many buyers overpay for a higher grade without noticing a visible improvement.
Why Eye-Clean Clarity Matters
Certificates are only guides. Two diamonds with the same clarity grade can look very different. For example, a VS2 diamond may appear flawless if inclusions are hidden under the crown, whereas another VS2 may have a black spot that distracts your eye.
This is where experience comes in. Over the years, I’ve seen buyers choose VVS diamonds unnecessarily while a clean SI1 shined just as beautifully. For more details, read my guide on Diamond Certification vs Beauty.
How to Buy Smarter
Ask yourself:
- Can I see inclusions without a loupe?
- Does the setting hide imperfections?
- Do I want to pay more for a grade I cannot see?
If buying online, request high-resolution images and videos. Compare a VVS2 and SI1 side by side—you might be surprised by how similar they look. Learn about choosing the right cut on Blue Nile’s Eye-Clean Diamond Guide.
Practical Tips
- Don’t buy a clarity grade. Buy a diamond you love.
- Always view the stone with your eyes, not just the certificate.
- Compare stones directly to see which looks best.
Remember, a diamond’s beauty is in how it looks on your finger, not on paper. Eye-clean clarity is about what you see, not what the certificate says.
FAQ
Q1: Can an SI1 diamond look as good as a VVS2?
Yes. If it’s eye-clean, the inclusions are invisible without magnification.
Q2: Why isn’t “eye-clean” on the certificate?
Clarity grades are based on 10x magnification, but eye-clean is subjective to your vision.
Q3: Should I always buy the highest grade?
Not always. A lower-grade diamond that’s eye-clean can save you thousands without visible difference.
