Clarity grading describes the presence of internal characteristics (inclusions) and surface features (blemishes) within a gemstone. In moissanite, clarity grades use the same scale as diamond grading, but the practical implications are different — and largely more favourable to the buyer. This guide explains what each clarity grade means for moissanite, what is actually visible in everyday wear, and which grade makes sense to prioritise.
The Clarity Scale
- FL / IF (Flawless / Internally Flawless): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10× magnification. Essentially theoretical in moissanite — rare and commands a premium that exceeds any visible benefit.
- VVS1 / VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included): Minute inclusions extremely difficult to find even under 10× magnification by a trained gemologist. Completely eye-clean. Invisible in any normal viewing condition.
- VS1 / VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Minor inclusions visible under 10× magnification but invisible to the naked eye. Eye-clean. The standard grade for quality moissanite production.
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SI1 / SI2 (Slightly Included): Inclusions visible under 10× magnification, and potentially visible to the naked eye depending on the inclusion type and location.
- SI1: Often eye-clean in brilliant cuts; inclusions typically visible only under magnification.
- SI2: Inclusions may be visible to the naked eye, particularly in step cuts (emerald, asscher) or near the centre of the stone.
- I1 / I2 / I3 (Included): Inclusions visible to the naked eye that affect the stone's transparency and potentially its durability. Not recommended for moissanite jewelry.
The Key Fact: Most Moissanite Is VS or Better
This is the most important clarity fact for moissanite buyers: the majority of lab-created moissanite is produced at VS1 or VVS clarity as a standard outcome of the controlled lab creation process.
Unlike natural diamonds, where the geological formation process creates a wide range of inclusion types and severities, lab-created moissanite is grown under controlled conditions that consistently produce high-clarity stones. SI1 and below in moissanite is relatively uncommon in quality production, and FL/IF moissanite exists but commands a premium for largely theoretical perfection.
In practical terms: if you are buying moissanite from a reputable supplier, you are almost certainly receiving a VS or VVS stone. The clarity grade is typically not the limiting factor in moissanite quality.
What Can You Actually See?
| Grade | Visible to naked eye? | Visible under 10× loupe? |
|---|---|---|
| VVS1/VVS2 | No | Very difficult to find |
| VS1/VS2 | No | Visible under magnification |
| SI1 | Usually no (brilliant cuts) | Clearly visible |
| SI2 | Sometimes yes | Clearly visible |
Clarity and Cut Shape
The cut shape of the stone significantly affects how visible inclusions are:
- Brilliant cuts (round, oval, cushion, pear, marquise, heart): The rapidly moving facets and light scattering of a brilliant cut effectively mask inclusions. VS clarity is more than sufficient; even SI1 is often eye-clean in these cuts.
- Step cuts (emerald, asscher): The long, open facets of a step cut make the interior of the stone highly transparent. Inclusions that would be invisible in a brilliant cut are much more visible in a step cut. VS or better is strongly recommended; VVS is ideal for emerald and asscher cuts.
Should You Pay for VVS Over VS?
For most buyers choosing a brilliant-cut moissanite:
- VS is the practical sweet spot. Eye-clean, well within the quality standard for fine jewelry, and the grade that most quality moissanite is produced at as standard. There is no visible reason to pay a premium for VVS in a brilliant cut — you cannot see the difference with the naked eye.
- VVS is preferred for step cuts (emerald, asscher) where the open facets increase transparency and make VS inclusions more likely to be visible.
- FL/IF is a premium for theoretical perfection that offers no visible advantage over VVS in any cut or setting.
The Practical Recommendation
For a brilliant-cut moissanite in any setting: VS1 or VS2 is the recommended minimum and is typically sufficient. For a step-cut (emerald or asscher): VVS2 or VVS1 is preferred.
All Moissanite Shine stones are certified with their clarity grade documented. If clarity grade is not listed on a product, ask before purchasing — any reputable supplier will have this information available.
Related reading:
Moissanite Color Grades Explained: D, E, F, G, H
Moissanite Emerald Cut: The Complete Guide
Moissanite Cut Quality Guide: What Makes an Ideal Cut?