Diamond Colour and Clarity: Where People Overspend

In this guide

    By Clint Casmiro, Co-Founder, Smiro Studio, Toronto · Updated September 27, 2026

    Short answer: Buy VS1 clarity unless the diamond is a step cut like an emerald or Asscher, where VVS2 is worth it. For colour, D, E and F are all colourless, but be careful with lab diamonds graded F. Near colourless (G to J) looks warmer, more unique and costs less. Our default on a quote is F colour, VS1.

    This is where we see the most money wasted. Here is how I explain it on calls.

    What clarity do I actually need?

    Clarity is the amount of inclusions. Anything VS1 and above is eye clean. People ask for VVS2 and they do not need it. The only stones that do are step cuts, like emerald and Asscher, with long open facets, because an inclusion can reflect through the entire stone.

    What colour should I buy?

    D, E and F are technically all colourless. Near colourless is my personal favourite. Everyone can get a white diamond now, so near colourless is more unique, and it costs less.

    Why be careful with lab grown F colour?

    We have seen IGI group G, H and I stones loosely into F on lab diamonds, so a lab F can have a very slight tinge. We check every stone on video, and sometimes we steer clients to an E or a proper near colourless stone instead.

    What about coloured diamonds?

    Champagne diamonds sit even lower on the colour scale, with very light brownish or yellowish hues. They are unique and hard to get. Read our champagne diamonds guide for real prices.

    Does cut matter more than colour?

    Yes. A well cut stone at a lower colour looks brighter than a poorly cut stone at a higher colour. Put your money into cut first.

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    Questions we get about this

    Is VS1 clarity good enough for an engagement ring?

    Yes. VS1 and above is eye clean. Only step cuts like emerald cuts really need VVS2.

    What diamond colour is best value?

    Near colourless, G to J. It looks warmer and more unique than D and costs less.

    Is an F colour lab diamond colourless?

    It should be, but we have seen lab F stones with a slight tint, so we check each one on video.

    What grade do you quote by default?

    F colour, VS1 clarity, unless you ask for something else.

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