Best Clarity for Lab-Grown Diamonds

For top quality, choose FL or VVS1 lab-grown diamonds, flawless even under magnification. For the best value, opt for VVS2 or VS1, still eye-clean and brilliant. These clarity grades offer the right balance between visual perfection and smart budgeting.

When it comes to clarity in lab-grown diamonds, most people assume higher is always better. But the truth is, what you see with your eyes matters more than what the grading report says. 

That’s why we focus on helping you choose a diamond that looks flawless, without overpaying for specs you’ll never notice.

What You Actually Need to Know:

• FL or VVS1 clarity = flawless under magnification; ideal for those seeking top-tier perfection
• VVS2–VS1 clarity = the best value; eye-clean and stunning to the naked eye
• Avoid SI2 or lower unless reviewed closely, flaws are often visible
• Diamond shape matters: step cuts need higher clarity than brilliant cuts
• Cut is still king, a well-cut VS1 can outshine a poorly cut VVS1

Mikado Diamonds specializes in custom engagement rings featuring lab-grown diamonds that are hand-selected with expert clarity guidance.

We walk you through the entire process, starting with real diamond comparisons and ending with a ring that reflects your priorities for sparkle, budget, and beauty.

Most clients are surprised by how much clarity they don’t need once they see what really matters. Keep reading to learn how we help you find the sweet spot, without overpaying for grades you’ll never notice.

How We Help You Pick the Right Clarity

At Mikado, we do clarity differently:

• We don’t recommend based on certifications alone. We use 360° video, lighting tests, and real-world review.
• We custom design your ring to hide inclusions and enhance the stone’s strengths.
• We help you compare actual diamonds, side by side, so you can see where your money goes, and where it doesn’t need to.

This is personal. And we’re here to make sure your ring feels just as good as it looks.

The Lab-Grown Clarity Advantage

One of the biggest perks of lab-grown diamonds? You can afford clarity grades that would be out of reach with natural stones.

Instead of settling for SI1 or SI2 to stay on budget, most of our clients can comfortably choose VVS2 or VS1. These clarity grades look flawless to the naked eye and perform beautifully in every lighting condition.

That means less compromise and more confidence when it comes to sparkle, durability, and long-term satisfaction.

At Mikado Diamonds, we see lab-grown as an opportunity to get more without paying more. Better clarity. Bigger carat. And a ring that reflects both your style and your smarts.

Our Clarity Recommendations

Here’s where we stand:

• FL / IF – Ideal for those who want rare perfection and don’t mind paying a premium.
• VVS1 – Perfect for clients who want top clarity but more options than FL offers.
• VVS2 – VS1 – The sweet spot. Eye-clean, affordable, and still exceptional under 10x.
• VS2 – Works in the right cut and setting, but always check for eye-clean status.
• SI1 and below – Proceed with caution. Not all are bad, but many show visible flaws.

If you’re unsure, we’ll walk you through real examples. Our goal is clarity, in your diamond, and in your decision.

Ready to Find the One?

Whether you’re after technical perfection or visual impact that fits your budget, we’re here to help.

Book a free consultation with Mikado Diamonds. We’ll show you actual lab-grown stones that sparkle in real life, not just on paper, and help you make a confident, no-regret choice.

Your ring should feel right from the first look. We’ll help you get there.

FAQs

Is VVS1 really better than VS1? 

Technically, yes, VVS1 has fewer inclusions under magnification. But in most lighting and real-life viewing, you won’t see a difference between a well-cut VVS1 and a clean VS1.

Can I tell the difference between IF and VVS2? 

Very unlikely. Unless you're using a jeweler’s loupe, both appear perfectly clean. This is why VVS2 offers such great value, it looks like perfection, at a lower price.

What clarity is best for a 2ct lab diamond? 

We recommend VS1 or better at that size. Bigger diamonds show more surface area, so inclusions are easier to spot.

Does clarity affect sparkle? 

No. Sparkle comes from cut, not clarity. A lower-clarity stone with ideal cut will shine far brighter than a flawless diamond with poor cut proportions.

Will it look flawed? 

Not if it’s hand-reviewed. We personally inspect each diamond for eye-clean appearance, and steer you away from anything distracting.

Can I trust the certificate alone? 

No. A grading report is a starting point, not a decision-maker. That’s why we offer HD video, expert consultation, and visual comparison, not just specs.

Will lower clarity affect durability? 

Only in extreme cases. Structural inclusions near the girdle can weaken a stone. That’s why we avoid SI2 or worse, unless it’s been thoroughly evaluated.