Flawless (FL) Clarity Diamonds: Elite Purity, Exceptional Light Performance
The highest clarity grade on the GIA scale, “Flawless” (FL) diamonds have no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10× magnification. This places them at the pinnacle of rarity and pedigree, admired by collectors and connoisseurs alike. For many, owning a Flawless natural diamond is about more than beauty—it is about possessing a symbol of absolute purity and perfection.
It should be noted that when we talk about flawless diamonds we are generally talking about both FL (flawless) and IF (internally flawless).
At Whiteflash, we specialize in helping clients pursue the rarest combinations: Flawless clarity paired with
super-ideal cut craftsmanship. Our proprietary
A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series features diamonds in DEF color and FL–VVS clarity that not only meet the strictest standards of purity but also deliver unmatched brilliance, fire, and scintillation.
FL CLARITY DIAMONDS
0.337 K IF Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$315
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1.58 D IF Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$30,750
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0.50 E IF Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$2,750
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0.77 F IF Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$4,495
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Key Highlights
- GIA-Certified Flawless (FL) Diamonds – verified at the strictest clarity grade.
- A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series – the world’s elite super-ideal diamonds in D–F color and FL–VVS clarity.
- Cut as the Engine of Beauty – brilliance and fire come from precision craftsmanship, not just purity.
What Does FL Clarity Mean?
On the
GIA clarity scale,
Flawless (FL) represents the very highest grade a diamond can achieve. A diamond earns this designation when a skilled grader finds
no inclusions and no surface blemishes visible at 10× magnification.
The “sister grade” to FL is Internally Flawless (IF), which indicates no inclusions under 10× but allows for very minor surface blemishes. Both of these grades are generally considered to be “flawless” diamonds. To the naked eye, both FL and IF diamonds typically appear indistinguishable—completely clean and pure. The distinction is revealed only under magnification and careful grading and examination of the surface features of the diamond.
Loupe-Clean vs. Eye-Clean
- Eye-Clean: A diamond that looks free of inclusions to the unaided eye at normal viewing distances (generally true for VS and higher grades).
- Loupe-Clean: A diamond that shows no inclusions even under a 10× jeweler’s loupe—a distinction that certainly applies to FL and IF grades. It may also be difficult to see inclusions in a VVS diamond without the stability of a microscope.
This means that while many diamonds of lower clarity grades can appear flawless in everyday wear, only an FL diamond achieves technical perfection at the grading microscope.
What You’ll See on the Report
- Blank clarity plot: No internal inclusions or blemishes mapped.
- Other notations: Occasionally, minor features may be noted but are not considered inclusions or blemishes.
- Laser inscription option: FL diamonds may include a laser inscription on the girdle for identification, since they lack internal markers.
FL vs. IF at a Glance
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Attribute
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Flawless (FL)
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Internally Flawless (IF)
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Inclusions
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None visible at 10×
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None visible at 10×
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Blemishes
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None visible at 10×
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Has minor surface blemishes
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Eye-clean
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Yes
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Yes
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Rarity
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Extremely rare
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Very rare
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Market Premium
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Highest
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Slightly lower than FL
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Key Takeaway: FL clarity diamonds are prized for their extraordinary rarity and pedigree, not because they offer visible differences from IF or top
VVS grades. Their true significance lies in their status as the most pristine classification on the clarity scale.
IN STOCK DIAMONDS
1.088 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$7,365
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1.03 H VS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$4,950
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0.724 F SI1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$2,275
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0.732 F SI1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$2,295
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Rarity, Value & Market Realities
Flawless diamonds occupy the very summit of the clarity scale, and their scarcity is what sets them apart. Only a tiny fraction of diamonds submitted to top laboratories qualify as Flawless (FL), making them prized collector’s items.
Why Flawless Diamonds Are Rare
- Natural formation: Natural diamonds crystallize under extreme heat and pressure deep within the Earth. Microscopic inclusions are almost always part of this process, making total absence exceptionally unusual.
- Grading rigor: For a diamond to achieve FL, multiple graders at labs like GIA must agree that no inclusions or blemishes are visible at 10× magnification.
- Market availability: Among diamonds that reach jewelry quality, only a tiny fraction of a percent achieve the FL designation.
Understanding the Price Premium
The market treats FL clarity as the pinnacle of purity, and this rarity drives significant premiums:
- Price leaps: FL diamonds command higher prices than IF or VVS stones of otherwise identical characteristics.
- Symbol over visibility: The premium is not tied to visual differences—since IF and top VVS stones also appear perfectly clean to the naked eye—but rather to the prestige of owning the rarest classification.
- Investment mindset: Because a tiny scratch can drop the grade, FL diamonds are acquired less for day-to-day distinction and more as heirlooms, collectibles, or symbols of uncompromising standards.
Smart Alternatives for Beauty and Value
While FL clarity is the apex of rarity, most shoppers can achieve the same visible perfection with slightly lower grades:
- IF Clarity: Also considered “flawless” IF is more available and trades at a modest price savings to FL.
- VVS1 and VVS2: Inclusions so small they are extremely difficult to detect even under 10× magnification, and are invisible to the naked eye.
- VS1 and VS2 (in some shapes/sizes): Typically eye-clean, offering a balance of size, color, and cut at more attainable price points.
Key Insight: Unless the symbolic prestige of FL clarity is the top priority, many buyers choose to allocate budget toward
superior cut quality and carat size, which have a more visible impact on a diamond’s beauty. For purists IF diamonds are also considered “flawless”
Cut First: Why Performance Outshines Purity
While Flawless (FL) clarity represents the pinnacle of rarity, it is not what makes a diamond beautiful. A diamond’s brilliance, fire, and scintillation are all determined by cut quality—the precision of its proportions, symmetry, and optical alignment. A Flawless diamond with mediocre cut will appear less lively than a lower-clarity diamond cut to perfection.
18k Yellow Gold Valoria Tapered Baguette 3 Stone Engagement Ring
Light Performance Is What You See
- Brilliance: Overall light return that gives diamonds their brightness.
- Fire: The dispersion of spectral colors as light exits the facets resulting in colored flashes.
- Scintillation: The sparkle effect created by light and dark contrast as the diamond moves.
These qualities are all maximized by super-ideal cutting, not by clarity. Even the rarest FL diamond cannot reveal its true potential without precise craftsmanship.
A CUT ABOVE® Hearts & Arrows Super-Ideal Diamonds
At Whiteflash, our
A CUT ABOVE® diamonds represent the highest level of precision cutting in the world. Each diamond must pass a battery of stringent light performance tests, including:
- Hearts & Arrows optical symmetry verification.
- ASET and Ideal Scope imaging to confirm optimal light return and minimal leakage.
- Strict proportion ranges that provide for optimal fire and brilliance when cut with precision.
Every A CUT ABOVE® diamond is cut for maximum beauty—not for carat weight—and only a fraction of the world’s diamonds meet these standards.
The Collection Series: Rarest of the Rare
- Color: D, E, F ( top of the color scale - colorless).
- Clarity: Flawless to VVS (the elite clarity range).
- Cut: Super-ideal Hearts & Arrows, verified through advanced imaging.
This collection represents the connoisseur’s choice—diamonds at the intersection of elite pedigree and world-class light performance.
Collection Series
1.104 F VVS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$8,750
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1.101 F VVS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$8,650
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1.112 F VVS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$8,795
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1.108 F VVS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$8,675
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Key Takeaway: A Flawless clarity grade is a symbol of ultimate purity, but only cut quality unleashes a diamond’s visual magic. By combining FL clarity (or IF) with an A CUT ABOVE® super-ideal cut, you achieve the rarest union of technical perfection and breathtaking beauty.
How FL Presents in the Real World
While Flawless (FL) is the highest possible clarity grade, its impact in everyday viewing is often subtler than most imagine. To the naked eye, diamonds in the FL, IF, and even top VVS range all appear clean and pure. The difference lies in pedigree and rarity, not in visible beauty.
Size and Shape Sensitivity
The way clarity is perceived depends on the diamond’s size and faceting style:
- Larger diamonds: Inclusions, when present, are easier to detect at higher carat weights because there is more surface area to examine. In this context, FL and IF grades may be more meaningful.
- Step-cut shapes (Emerald, Asscher): With broad, open facets, step cuts reveal inclusions more readily than brilliant cuts. Buyers who want a visibly clean appearance in these shapes often lean toward higher clarity grades, making the flawless grades especially appealing.
- Brilliant-cut shapes (Round, Princess, Cushion): The intense sparkle of brilliant faceting tends to mask minor inclusions. As a result, VVS and VS diamonds in these cuts can look virtually identical to FL diamonds in everyday wear.
Fluorescence and Other Characteristics
Even an FL diamond can exhibit features unrelated to clarity:
- Fluorescence: Some FL diamonds display fluorescence when exposed to ultraviolet light. This characteristic is graded separately from clarity and does not affect the FL designation.
- Strain patterns or graining: Subtle internal growth features may be present in all diamonds, including FL. These are not inclusions in the gemological sense and in most cases do not disqualify the grade.
- Polish and symmetry: FL clarity does not guarantee top polish or symmetry grades—these are separate aspects of craftsmanship.
What You Actually See
The difference between an FL diamond and a well-cut IF or VVS diamond is imperceptible to the naked eye. The choice to pursue FL is less about visible superiority and more about owning a diamond at the highest possible level of rarity and distinction.
Key Takeaway: In real-world viewing, FL clarity does not create more brilliance or sparkle than other high grades. What truly makes a diamond captivating is cut quality—the factor that controls light return and optical performance. FL clarity, however, offers unmatched pedigree for those who want the purest possible gem.
Valoria Petite Four Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
Certification & Documentation
Because of the rarity and value of
Flawless (FL) diamonds, independent certification is essential. The most trusted authority for clarity grading is the
Gemological Institute of America (GIA), whose clarity scale is the industry benchmark. A GIA report confirming FL status ensures that the diamond has passed the strictest evaluation and has no inclusions or blemishes at 10× magnification.
What You’ll See on a GIA Report for an FL Diamond
- Clarity Grade: Clearly stated as Flawless at the top of the report.
- Clarity Plot: Typically blank, since no inclusions or blemishes are visible at 10×. Occasionally minor details may be noted.
- Polish and Symmetry: Reported separately from clarity. A diamond may be FL in clarity but still achieve lower grades in polish or symmetry.
- Fluorescence: Documented independently, ranging from None to Strong. Even FL diamonds may show fluorescence, which does not affect the clarity grade.
- Laser Inscription: FL diamonds may carry a laser inscription on the girdle for identification purposes, since they lack internal markers. But many dealers choose not to inscribe flawless diamonds.
Why Documentation Matters
An FL clarity grade is a prestigious designation, but it should always be verified by a reputable laboratory report. This documentation provides:
- Confidence in rarity: Independent verification of the FL classification.
- Transparency in quality: Details on cut proportions, polish, symmetry, and fluorescence.
- Market credibility: Essential for long-term value, resale, or insurance purposes.
The Whiteflash Difference
Every Whiteflash branded natural diamond is presented with a complete performance package that goes beyond lab documentation:
- High-resolution images from multiple angles.
- Performance imaging (ASET, Hearts, Ideal Scope) that verifies light return and optical symmetry.
- HD video for real-world viewing of brilliance and fire.
- Laboratory Certificate
This level of detail provides buyers with full confidence—not only that their diamond is flawless in clarity, but also that it is exceptional in cut performance.
Key Takeaway: A GIA grading report verifies a diamond’s FL clarity, but it is only part of the picture. At Whiteflash, every Flawless diamond (FL or IF) is paired with advanced performance data, ensuring that its rarity is matched by uncompromising beauty.
Selecting Your FL Diamond: Practical Recommendations
Choosing a Flawless (FL) diamond is as much about your personal priorities as it is about gemological facts. While FL represents the ultimate in rarity, the decision often comes down to balancing clarity with other factors—most importantly cut quality.
If FL Clarity Is Your Non-Negotiable
For clients who value the symbolic prestige of absolute purity above all:
- Cut First: Ensure the diamond is graded Excellent/Ideal for cut, or better yet, choose a super-ideal like the A CUT ABOVE® standard.
- Color Choices: Pair FL clarity with high color grades (D–F) for a classic “icy white” appearance, or G–H for more value while still appearing colorless to most observers.
- Carat Flexibility: Be prepared to adjust carat weight, since FL limits availability and commands a premium.
- Remember that both FL and IF are considered flawless diamonds
If Beauty Is the Top Priority
For those seeking the most visually stunning diamond, with flexibility on pedigree:
- Consider IF or VVS1/VVS2: These grades are identical to FL to the naked eye, yet more widely available and relatively more affordable.
- Invest in Cut Quality: Redirect budget into a super-ideal cut, which delivers maximum brilliance, fire, and sparkle you can actually see.
- Balance Carat and Color: Achieve a larger or more budget friendly diamond without sacrificing the clean, pure look you desire.
Shape-Specific Notes
- Step Cuts (Emerald, Asscher): Their broad facets make inclusions easier to see, so IF or FL clarity can provide peace of mind.
- Brilliant Cuts (Round, Princess, Cushion): Their sparkle masks minor inclusions, making VVS or even VS grades appear flawless to the eye.
- Fancy Shapes: Clarity sensitivity varies; prioritize cut quality and verify with magnified images.
Budgeting Strategy
- Prioritize cut: The greatest impact on beauty.
- Next, choose color: Decide between icy white (DEF) or near-colorless (GHIJ).
- Then, clarity: Opt for FL if it is personally meaningful, or IF/VVS for a balance of elite purity and budget.
Key Takeaway: FL clarity is about pedigree and rarity, while cut quality is about visible beauty. Decide whether you want the symbolic “best of the best,” or the best-looking diamond for your investment—either way, Whiteflash provides options to suit your goals.
Settings, Wear & Care
Owning a Flawless (FL) diamond is a source of pride, but it does not change the way a diamond should be set or maintained. The FL grade refers to clarity under 10× magnification, not to durability or toughness. Like all diamonds, FL diamonds require thoughtful setting choices and routine care to look their best over a lifetime.
Choosing the Right Setting
- Protective Settings: Bezel or halo settings can add an extra layer of protection for larger or high-value FL diamonds.
- Classic Prongs: Four- or six-prong settings allow maximum light to enter the diamond, enhancing brilliance.
- Open Galleries: For super-ideal cuts such as A CUT ABOVE®, open settings showcase the diamond’s exceptional light performance.
- Secure Craftsmanship: Work with expert jewelers to ensure prongs are strong and properly aligned, especially for larger stones.
Daily Wear Considerations
- Durability: An FL diamond is no more or less durable than any other diamond of the same cut, shape, and carat weight. Clarity does not affect toughness. But even a tiny scratch will drop the clarity grade of a FL diamond.
- Lifestyle Fit: Consider your daily activities when choosing a setting—low-profile or bezel designs are ideal for active lifestyles, while higher-set solitaires maximize sparkle for dress wear.
- Metal Choice: Platinum prongs offer strong, secure support for high-value stones, while gold provides color options and design flexibility.
Cleaning and Maintenance
- At Home: Clean your diamond with warm water, mild detergent, and a soft brush to maintain brilliance.
- Professional Cleaning: Schedule regular cleanings and inspections with your jeweler to check for loose prongs or wear.
- Ultrasonic Cleaners: Generally safe for diamonds, but use with caution if the setting contains delicate side stones.
Key Takeaway: A Flawless diamond deserves both thoughtful presentation and attentive care. With the right setting and routine maintenance, your FL diamond will retain its brilliance and serve as a lasting symbol of perfection.
Whiteflash Flawless Pathways
At Whiteflash, we understand that selecting a Flawless (FL) diamond is about more than owning the rarest clarity grade—it’s about choosing a diamond that performs at the highest possible level. That is why we combine elite pedigree with uncompromising cut craftsmanship, offering clients a clear pathway to the ultimate diamond experience.
A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series – The Pinnacle of Purity
- Color: Only the top three grades—D, E, F - colorless
- Clarity: Flawless through VVS, the most elite clarity grades.
- Cut: True super-ideal Hearts & Arrows, precision cut and verified through advanced light performance imaging.
For those who want a Flawless diamond that is also the most brilliant and scintillating possible, the Collection Series offers a curated, world-class selection.
Expert Guidance & Concierge Service
Because FL diamonds are so rare, many clients benefit from personalized assistance in sourcing the right stone. Whiteflash provides:
- One-on-one consultations with diamond experts.
- Access to global networks for locating specific FL or IF parameters (size, color, shape).
- Transparent education so clients can make confident, informed decisions.
FAQs About Flawless (FL) Diamonds
What’s the difference between FL and IF clarity?
Flawless (FL): No inclusions and no blemishes visible at 10× magnification.
Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions visible at 10×, but has minor surface blemishes. Both appear completely clean to the naked eye.
Are FL diamonds visibly different from IF or VVS?
No. Diamonds in the IF and VVS range are also eye-clean. The difference is in pedigree and rarity, not in what you see without magnification.
Do FL diamonds sparkle more than other clarity grades?
No. Sparkle, fire, and brilliance come from cut quality, not clarity. A super-ideal cut diamond with lower clarity will look more beautiful than an FL diamond with average cut.
Do FL diamonds fluoresce?
They can. Fluorescence is a separate characteristic, independent of clarity, and is noted on grading reports. An FL diamond with fluorescence is still Flawless.
Which labs grade FL clarity?
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is the gold standard for clarity grading and the most recognized authority for FL classifications worldwide.
Key Takeaway: Flawless clarity is a symbol of ultimate rarity and prestige, but it does not guarantee greater beauty than other high clarity grades. What truly makes a diamond stunning is cut quality, which Whiteflash verifies through its advanced light performance standards.