Classic Pear Shaped Sapphire Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold Blue NileClassic Pear Shaped Sapphire Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold Blue Nile

The Best Clarity Grades for Heart Shaped Diamond Rings


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HomeDiamond AdviceThe Best Clarity Grades for Heart Shaped Diamond Rings

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If you are searching for a unique diamond with tons of sparkle, look no further than heart shaped gems. Heart shaped diamonds are a variation of the traditional brilliant cut, meaning their facets are carefully formed and oriented to reflect as much light as possible. Fortunately, this intense scintillation can mask minor clarity characteristics, meaning you stretch your budget further by purchasing a gem with a lower clarity grade. Let's explore the best clarity grades for heart shaped diamonds so you don't waste money.

The Best Clarity for Heart Shaped Diamonds

Speaking generally, the clarity grade of SI1 sits at the pivot point where those with a better grade will be eye-clean while diamonds with a lower grade will have visible clarity features.

When it comes to heart shaped diamonds, you will find that many SI1 gems are eye-clean, with noticeable characteristics not becoming an issue until a grade of SI2. This makes heart shaped diamonds with a grade of SI1 the perfect choice for many shoppers. By choosing a gem with this clarity grade, you avoid paying a premium for stones of higher grades that look exactly the same.

This 1.03 ct SI1 heart shaped diamond has multiple clarity features, but they are almost impossible to see, especially if you don't know where to look.

Pro-Tip

If you determine that a SI1 or SI2 heart-shaped diamond works best for you, be sure to check the plot of the diamond listed on the certificate. If the gem's clarity features are located at its edges, rather than the center, they are much less likely to be noticeable. 

The individual black flecks inside this 1.02 ct SI2 heart shaped diamond are not that big, but they are scattered throughout the gem, including under the large table facet, where they can easily be seen.
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Emily Frontiere

Emily Frontiere is a GIA Graduate Gemologist. She is particularly experienced working with estate/antique jewelry.

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