Which stones can have eye-visible inclusions?

• A. Only IF and VVS have eye-visible inclusions
• B. All grades except IF
• C. None of the grades can have eye-visible inclusions
• D. VS, SI, and I stones can have eye-visible inclusions.

Answer: (D)

Eye-visible inclusions are more likely when the overall clarity is lower. As clarity grades rise, inclusions become smaller or more easily hidden, so they’re typically not seen with the naked eye in the higher grades. Stones in the VS, SI, and I range can—and often do—show inclusions that are visible without magnification, depending on the size and location of the inclusion. In contrast, stones in the higher grades, like IF or VVS, are usually free of eye-visible inclusions because any flaws present are too small or well-positioned to be seen without magnification. That’s why those lower grades can have eye-visible inclusions, while the very high grades generally do not.