Lab Diamond Inclusions: Everything You Need to Know
Lab Diamond Inclusions: When shopping for a lab grown diamond, you'll quickly come across the term inclusions. While many buyers assume inclusions are flaws that should always be avoided, the reality is far more nuanced.
Nearly every diamond, whether mined or lab grown, contains some form of internal characteristic. Understanding what inclusions are, how they form, and how they affect a diamond's appearance can help you make a smarter purchasing decision while avoiding unnecessary costs. In this guide, we'll explain everything you need to know about lab diamond inclusions, including the different types, whether they're visible to the naked eye, and how clarity grades influence price.
What Are Lab Diamond Inclusions?
Lab diamond inclusions are tiny internal characteristics that develop during the diamond's growth process. Although lab diamonds are created in controlled laboratory environments using advanced technology, they still grow as real diamonds with the same chemical, physical and optical properties as mined diamonds.
As the crystal forms, microscopic features can become trapped inside the diamond. These are known as inclusions. Every inclusion is unique, making each lab diamond slightly different from another.
Are Inclusions Normal?
Yes. Inclusions are completely normal and should be expected in most diamonds. Even diamonds graded as Very Slightly Included (VS) or Slightly Included (SI) contain inclusions under magnification. The important question isn't whether a diamond has inclusions, it is whether those inclusions can actually be seen without magnification or negatively affect the diamond's brilliance.
How Do Inclusions Form in Lab Diamonds?
Lab diamonds are created using one of two methods:
High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT)
Chemical Vapour Deposition (CVD)
During crystal growth, tiny irregularities can naturally develop. Depending on the growth method, different inclusion types may appear. HPHT diamonds may contain metallic inclusions from the growth process. CVD diamonds may occasionally contain graphite or growth-related features that are removed during post-growth treatment. Both methods produce genuine diamonds.
Common Types of Lab Diamond Inclusions:
Crystal Inclusions
Small mineral crystals trapped inside the diamond during growth. These are among the most common inclusion types.
Pinpoints
Tiny microscopic dots inside the diamond, individual pinpoints rarely affect appearance. Although, clusters of pinpoints may reduce clarity if numerous.
Feathers
Small internal fractures resembling delicate white feathers. Most feathers are harmless unless unusually large or positioned near the surface.
Clouds
Groups of microscopic pinpoints. Small clouds generally cannot be seen without magnification, large clouds may slightly reduce transparency.
Needles
Long thin crystal inclusions. Most needles are extremely difficult to detect without magnification.
Metallic Inclusions
More commonly found in HPHT grown diamonds, these originate from the metal catalysts used during crystal growth. Modern production techniques have greatly reduced their occurrence.
Do Inclusions Affect Sparkle?
Usually very little.
A well cut diamond reflects light extremely efficiently. Small inclusions hidden beneath facets are almost impossible to notice during everyday wear. Only larger or numerous inclusions may reduce light performance. For this reason, cut quality has a much greater impact on brilliance than minor inclusions.
Can You See Inclusions Without Magnification?
In many cases, no.
Many VS1 and VS2 lab diamonds are considered "eye-clean," meaning inclusions cannot be seen without 10x magnification. Even some SI1 diamonds can appear perfectly clean to the naked eye depending on:
Inclusion location
Inclusion colour
Inclusion size
Diamond shape
Viewing distance
Understanding Lab Diamond Clarity Grades
Diamond clarity is graded using the internationally recognised GIA clarity scale.
FL – Flawless
No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification. Extremely rare.
IF – Internally Flawless
No internal inclusions under 10x magnification. Very rare.
VVS1 & VVS2
Very, very slight inclusions. Extremely difficult for even experienced graders to locate. Excellent choice for buyers seeking exceptional clarity.
VS1 & VS2
Very slight inclusions. Typically eye clean and offer outstanding value. One of the most popular clarity ranges.
SI1 & SI2
Slightly Included. May contain visible inclusions under magnification. Some SI1 diamonds remain eye clean.
I1, I2 & I3
Included. Inclusions are usually visible without magnification and may affect transparency or durability.
Which Clarity Grade Offers the Best Value?
For most buyers VVS1 - VS2. These grades often deliver the best balance between beauty and value. Paying significantly more for Flawless or Internally Flawless diamonds rarely produces any visible difference once the diamond is worn.
Are Lab Diamond Inclusions Different From Natural Diamonds?
Not necessarily, both lab grown and natural diamonds can contain feathers, pinpoints, clouds, needles or crystals.
Should You Avoid Inclusions?
Not at all. Instead, buyers should focus on whether the diamond is eye clean, well cut, certified and free from inclusions that affect durability. Most inclusions are so small they never impact everyday enjoyment.
Final Thoughts
Lab diamond inclusions are a natural part of how diamonds form, even in highly controlled laboratory environments. Rather than chasing a flawless clarity grade, buyers should prioritise overall beauty, excellent cut quality, and an eye-clean appearance.
A well-cut VS1, VS2 or carefully selected SI1 lab diamond can appear virtually identical to far more expensive flawless stones while offering exceptional value. Understanding inclusions allows you to buy with confidence, knowing which characteristics matter and which are simply visible under magnification.
All our lab diamonds are VS+, shop ICD Jewellery
FAQ
Are inclusions bad in a lab diamond?
No. Most inclusions are microscopic and have no visible effect on a diamond's appearance.
Can you see lab diamond inclusions?
Usually not. Most VS and many SI1 lab diamonds are eye-clean.
Which clarity grade should I buy?
VS1 and VS2 generally offer the best balance between beauty and price.
Do lab diamonds have fewer inclusions than natural diamonds?
Not necessarily. Both can contain inclusions. The type and distribution simply differ depending on how the diamond formed.
Do inclusions affect durability?
Most do not. Only large surface reaching fractures or significant feathers may affect structural integrity.
Should I buy a flawless lab diamond?
For most buyers, no. Flawless diamonds command significant price premiums despite looking almost identical to high quality VS diamonds during normal wear.
