Tiny crystals are trapped inside the diamond during its formation. As these crystals grow, irregularities occur in their atomic structure. These are called inclusions, and most diamonds have internal features.Inclusion(Inclusions) and external characteristicsBlemish(Flaws) are present. Clarity is assessed comprehensively based on the number, size, relief (color and outline), nature, and location of these flaws. The clarity grade and characteristics are also clearly stated in the appraisal certificate.



While it's easy to imagine that smaller size and fewer number of inclusions are better, their location is also important. Inclusions and blemishes in the center are easier to see, while those at the edges are harder to see. Colored inclusions and blemishes are also easier to see, so colorless ones are preferable. Furthermore, since it's an overall evaluation, the grade may differ depending on the appraisal institution. So, let's take a look at the different grades available.

To put it simply, while it depends on the carat weight and the condition of the diamond, for diamonds up to 1 carat, it's generally difficult to judge the grade with the naked eye if it's SI or higher. Of course, there are individual differences, so please understand that what I'm about to say is based on my experience serving many customers. The grades are as follows:6 categories,11 gradesThey are divided into two categories.

Class I items are considerably cheaper, but depending on the item, they may not appear to have any shine at all. When choosing a Class I item, we strongly recommend that you actually check the product in person.
Furthermore, for stones over 1 carat, inclusions may be visible to the naked eye even in SI class stones. VS class or higher is generally safer, but if you prefer SI class, be sure to see the actual stone before making a decision.
At Hojudo, we inspect every diamond before purchasing it, so even SI class diamonds that are difficult to see through with the naked eye are in stock. Please note that even within the same class, there can be differences in quality.

While SI2 and FL lenses look almost identical to the naked eye, their prices differ by about two to four times. Therefore, clarity becomes a matter of individual preference for each customer.

Famous brand stores typically carry diamonds of IF to VS clarity. Therefore, many of our customers at Hojudo choose VS clarity, but we also have many who opt for SI clarity to increase the carat weight. To broaden your choices and help you decide which of the 4Cs to prioritize, Hojudo stocks a wide range of diamonds from FL to SI clarity. We also have many exceptionally high-quality flawless (FL) diamonds that are rarely found elsewhere.
If you'd like to see diamonds in person, please feel free to come visit us!
We can also search for diamonds that are not currently in stock, so please feel free to contact us.

▼Diamonds in stock at Hojudo

VVS～FL Choosing this option will likely result in high satisfaction. While VVS is in the middle of the spectrum, it's a level where even experienced graders find it difficult to detect inclusions. It's an extremely beautiful diamond. If you're still not satisfied, you can choose IF or FL, although they will cost a bit more.

SI classIt's best to increase the carat weight. Even with SI clarity, the difference is barely noticeable. If you get excited by the size of the diamond, you can consider slightly lowering the clarity. However, for diamonds over 1 carat, SI2 clarity may be visible to the naked eye (depending on the individual), so it's better to go with SI1 or VS2.

Many customers at Hojudo are looking for balance.VS ClassMany people choose this option. Since the average person often can't see the details even at 10x magnification, it provides peace of mind. If ordering online, VS class or higher is recommended.
Ideally, you should examine the actual diamond with a 10x loupe to confirm its quality, but if that's not possible, or if you're struggling to choose the right clarity, please use this as a reference.
At Hojudo, you can actually examine the diamonds in our inventory with a 10x loupe, so please feel free to ask us about it.