Let’s Get Practical
Can an I1 diamond be eye-clean?
In extremely rare instances an i1 diamond has inclusions numerous or significant enough to land in the “included” range, without being visible to the naked eye. Since most people just want an “eye-clean” diamond, meaning one which has no inclusions invisible to the naked eye, this can present an opportunity for bargain hunters.
There is no laboratory definition for eye-clean, but a PriceScope survey of gemologists resulted in this consensus:
Photo Courtesy of PS Member Soxfan
Eye-clean = No inclusions visible to the unaided eye when viewed from the face up position in daylight equivalent or fluorescent lighting from approximately 6 – 12 inches from the eye using 20/20 vision.
Real World Information
We don’t recommend I1 diamonds without in-person inspection, or purchase from a seller you trust to reliably convey details about the specific diamond being considered. Even diamonds which look clean in photos and videos may have issued with transparency or light transmission, which is frequently the reason a diamond will be relegated to the “included” range: I1, I2, or I3.
An i1 diamond that is perfectly transparent but has a significant or obvious inclusion may be problematic because that characteristic can draw the eye of viewers. With that said, depending on location, they may have a “prongable” inclusion, meaning one over which a prong can be placed, reducing its visibility in the face up position.