X
Gemstone Search

Your Details

Please fill in your email address

Please fill in a password

Forgot your password?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) / Colored Gemstone Clarity Grading

Some of your gemstones are graded for clarity with letters, such as VVS, VS or SI. However, some are just described as transparent, translucent or opaque. Why is that?

Faceted Tourmaline with Visible Inclusions

The clarity grades of IF, VVS, VS, SI and I1 are typically reserved for transparent to semi-transparent gemstones, where the interior of the stone is visible, and usually only used to grade faceted gemstones. If a gemstone is translucent or opaque, you can't see within the stone to determine inclusions in order to properly grade the material. So for these types of gems, as well as those cut en cabochon, clarity is often graded by terms, such as transparent, translucent or opaque. You will often see this not only for cabochons, but also with certain types of faceted gems too, including opal, fire opal, prehnite, black spinel or black tourmaline.

Learn about Gemstone Clarity
Learn about Gemstone Clarity vs Cut
Learn about Gemstone Clarity Groups and Grading

Return to FAQ HOME

STAY IN TOUCH | NEWSLETTER
*You're signing up to receive GemSelect promotional email.
Partners and Trust Partners and Trust Payment options Payment options

Switch to Mobile Version

Copyright © 2005-2025 GemSelect.com all rights reserved.

Reproduction (text or graphics) without the express written consent of GemSelect.com (SETT Company Ltd.) is strictly prohibited.

811

Enlarged Gemstone Image