Out of the 4Cs of diamonds — cut, color, clarity, and carat — clarity is the “C” most difficult to detect by the naked eye. Most rely on gemologists to define it on a diamond clarity chart. But any grade beyond “flawless” can be difficult to understand. Clarity can play an important role when it comes to selecting your engagement ring. And choosing between a VVS, VS, or SI lab-grown diamond can make a huge difference in your overall budget.

Are SI or Slightly Included diamonds right for you? Read on to learn more about this clarity grade that could help you save big — or speak with a diamond expert for more personalized advice on your very own VRAI created diamond.

What Is An SI or Slightly Included Diamond?

An SI diamond is “Slightly Included.” This means that inclusions (naturally occurring flaws) and blemishes (sometimes the fault of a diamond polisher) might not be visible to the naked eye, but are easy to see when under magnification.

What Is An SI1 Diamond?

The “1” in an SI1 rating makes it slightly superior to SI2 diamonds. This means that its flaws are likely not visible to the untrained and naked eye, but easy to see under magnification.

What Is An SI2 Diamond?

The “2” in an SI2 rating makes it slightly inferior to SI1 diamonds. This means that its flaws might or might not be visible to the naked eye, but will be easy to see under magnification.

Diamond Grading And Clarity

Diamond clarity refers to the visual purity of a diamond and is determined by its number of inclusions and blemishes. Clarity is difficult to notice without the help of a magnifier.

When determining a diamond’s clarity grade and placing it on the diamond clarity chart, five factors are taken into consideration: the size and number of imperfections, their position within the diamond, how they impact its durability, and the noticeable contrast between the imperfections and the diamond itself.

Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and therefore rank highest in clarity grade. Diamonds with inclusions are graded as Very, very slightly included or VVS1 and VVS2, Very slightly included, or VS1 and VS2, and Slightly included, or SI1 and SI2.

What Is SI Diamond Quality?

When it comes to Slightly included diamonds, or SI1 and SI2, inclusions and blemishes can become visible to the naked eye, though most are still easier to see under magnification. Their diamond grading is lower than Flawless, VVS, and VS diamonds, but above Included diamonds (I1, I2, and I3).

VS vs. SI Diamonds

VS diamonds are Very Slightly Included with minor inclusions that range from difficult (VS1) to easier (VS2) to see under magnification. A VS1 rating is slightly superior to VS2 diamonds. These are closer on the diamond clarity chart to SI diamonds, so if you have the budget and want to purchase a diamond with superior clarity, you might consider a VS diamond over SI.

VVS vs. SI Diamonds

VVS diamonds are Very, Very Slightly Included with tiny inclusions that are difficult to see even under magnification. The “1” in a VVS1 rating puts these particular diamonds at the top of their grade, while VVS2 are slightly inferior. VVS diamonds are closer to Flawless than SI diamonds. They would likely appear different, but their main distinction would be difference in price.

Should You Choose A Slightly Included Diamond?

An SI diamond can bring you considerable savings when purchasing, so you definitely shouldn’t rule them out. But choosing one should be based on your personal preferences and budget. There are other factors that go into buying a diamond that go beyond just clarity. Consider your diamond shape and desired carat weight before making your final decision on SI diamonds. Go for an “eye-clean” SI diamond with help from our diamond experts or by exploring our diamond inventory.

Diamond Clarity And Shape

Some diamond shapes mask inclusions better than others. The brilliant cut facets of a Round Brilliant, Cushion, Oval, Marquise, Pear, and Trillion cut diamond better tolerate lower clarity grades like SI as they reflect light from a number of angles.

The arge, rectangular step-cut facets diamonds of an Emerald or Asscher cut diamond benefit from a higher clarity grade, as they emphasize transparency and allow you to see deeper into the diamond.

Diamond Clarity And Carat Weight

Certain diamond sizes are more susceptible to visible inclusions. The larger surface area of higher carat weight diamonds can make inclusions more visible. The same is true in reverse. When choosing diamonds smaller in size or carat weight, inclusions are less visible. This means that clarity is less of a priority should you be selecting a diamond of smaller carat weight. SI diamonds work better for diamonds under 2 carats.

What Is The Price Of An SI Diamond?

On the scale from Flawless to Slightly Included, SI diamonds are the least expensive diamond when it comes to clarity. The price will vary depending on shape and the other 4Cs. But out of Round Brilliant diamonds, for example, featuring the same cut, color, and carat weight, a lower clarity grade of SI can be hundreds of dollars less expensive than VS or VVS diamonds.

What Jewelry Features SI Diamonds?

SI diamonds can be featured in a variety of different jewelry designs, including bracelets, necklaces, and earrings.

When you purchase Solitaire and Bezel Solitaire jewelry featuring a VRAI created diamond over 1 carat, you will be directed towards the diamond table to choose your stone. You may select an SI diamond based on your personal preferences and budget. Selecting this grade of diamond is a wonderful way to save as you are less likely to notice inclusions in a diamond jewelry design, as opposed to an engagement ring.

SI Diamond Earrings

Solitaire and Bezel Solitaire Studs may feature an SI diamond of your choosing should you opt for studs over 1 carat. Choose your diamond shape, preferred carat weight, and then select your diamond based on the other 4Cs. Then personalize with your favorite metal color.

SI Diamond Pendants

If you select a Bezel Solitaire Necklace, Solitaire Necklace, or Solitaire Pendant over 1 carat, you have the option of choosing an SI diamond. Make the pendant or necklace your own with your favorite diamond shape, preferred carat weight (and other 4Cs), as well as your favorite metal color.

SI Diamond Rings

You may select an SI diamond for all engagement ring setting. Set your budget, consider what shape and size diamond you would like, and then explore our diamond table for the perfect lab-grown diamond based on the 4Cs. Or take the guesswork out of buying an engagement ring by booking an appointment with our diamond experts!

For wedding rings and other fashion rings, the diamonds are pre-selected for you. Most of these rings feature VS2 diamonds.

Ask Our Diamond Experts About Slightly Included Diamonds

An SI diamond might be the perfect fit for you. Discover your options, receive personalized guidance, and benefit from in-depth diamond education by speaking with our diamond experts. Whether in-store or online, they’ll help you select the right diamond that you’ll cherish for years to come.