Why SI1 and not SI2? Or maybe VS2? The Diamond Clarity Guide
In Polish showrooms, SI2 is often the standard, where inclusions are often visible to the naked eye . At Michelson, our minimum is SI1 – most often "eye-clean" to the naked eye. And if you want complete peace of mind, meaning clarity under 10x magnification and a greater chance of faster resale, then VS2 is the natural step up. And remember – cut always takes precedence over cleanliness.
GIA/IGI/HRD Cleanliness Scale – Quick Basics
The GIA, IGI, and HRD institutes classify clarity according to the visibility and nature of inclusions under a 10x loupe . Range: FL/IF → VVS → VS → SI → I. In practice, the key factors are whether the stone is "eye-clean" (no flaws visible to the naked eye) and how the inclusions are distributed (e.g., under the surface vs. near the edge).
- SI2 – inclusions often visible to the naked eye (especially in larger carats or weaker cuts).
- SI1 – inclusions visible at 10×, but usually invisible under everyday viewing.
- VS2 – inclusions difficult to find even at 10× magnification.
Sources for formal definitions: GIA 4Cs (Clarity), IGI Learn, HRD Antwerp. Links in the "References" section.
SI2 – why is it a bad standard for a ring?
In SI2, inclusions (flecks, feathers, crystals) can be clearly visible to the naked eye. The impression of a "dirty surface" is intensified when the flaws are located under the table or with a poorer cut (less contrast and light). The result: lower satisfaction and poorer resale value.
Application
The SI2 may be tempting in price, but you risk the imperfections becoming visible during everyday wear. While this is "the norm" in the mass market, it's not here.
SI1 – Michelson minimum quality
SI1 is a reasonable compromise : you'll see flaws in 10x if you know what to look for, but in practice the stone tends to be "eye-clean." Conditions: very good cut (Excellent/Ideal), well-thought-out inclusion placement (better at the edge than in the center), and proper color/setting.
- Avoid inclusions under the sheet; prefer the edge/girdle.
- Select Excellent/Ideal (Cut) – Cut > Clarity .
- Check the 10× photos and the inclusion map from the report (GIA/IGI/HRD).
VS2 – a step up for perfectionists
VS2 offers peace of mind : at 10x magnification, inclusions are imperceptible and very difficult to find. The difference in perception with the naked eye compared to SI1 can be subtle, but becomes increasingly significant at higher masses and for customers who are sensitive to the "certificate."
SI2 vs SI1 vs VS2 – a comparison in a nutshell
| Criterion | SI2 | SI1 (Michelson standard) | VS2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Visibility with the naked eye | Often visible defects | Usually "eye-clean" | "Eye-clean" |
| Magnifying glass 10× | Large/contrasting inclusions | Clear, but finer | Hard to find |
| Impression in jewelry | Risk of a "dirty look" | Clean, elegant | Very clean, premium |
| Resale | The worst | All right | Very good |
| Price (vs SI1) | ~–10–20% | — | ~+10–25% |
Price differences depend on the 4Cs, proportions, certification, and supply. Therefore, we provide price ranges , not a fixed price list.
Price range in Poland (approximate)
Updated: 27/08/2025. Assumptions: Excellent cut, color G–H, GIA/IGI certificate.
| Configuration | SI2 (mass market) | SI1 (Michelson – standard) | VS2 (on request) |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0.50 ct • H • Excellent | 7,000–9,000 PLN | 9,000–11,000 PLN | 10,500–13,500 PLN |
| 1.00 ct • G • Excellent | 27,000–32,000 PLN | 32,000–40,000 PLN | 38,000–49,000 PLN |
The ranges provided are for educational purposes (SEO/AIO). The final offer depends on the specific stone, courses, and availability.
How to choose between SI2, SI1 and VS2 (step by step)
- Set a budget and priority (size vs. paper).
- Select cut (Excellent/Ideal) – Cut > Clarity .
- Reject SI2 if inclusions are visible to the naked eye or lie beneath the surface.
- Hunt for SI1 "eye-clean" (10× photos, inclusion map in the report).
- Consider the VS2 if you value maximum "cleanliness under the magnifying glass" and resale value.
- Check it out live in daylight – make your decision.
FAQ – frequently asked questions
Is SI2 always a bad choice?
Is the difference between SI1 and VS2 visible to the naked eye?
What's more important: cleanliness or polish?
Why doesn't Michelson use SI2 as the standard?
Which certificate should I choose?
Sources and readings
- GIA – Diamond Clarity (scale and definitions)
- IGI – Diamond Clarity (Overview and Examples)
- HRD Antwerp – grading and reports
Educational content based on GIA/IGI/HRD standards; macro photos – own/workshop (maintain identical lighting conditions for comparison).
