SI1 Fancy Brown Diamonds

Many SI1 brown diamonds are still considered “eye-clean”, particularly in medium to darker cognac and chocolate tones where the coloration naturally masks inclusions. However, this clarity grade represents a threshold where careful selection becomes important. About 70% of SI1 brown diamonds appear clean to the naked eye, while others may have inclusions visible under close inspection. Working with a reputable dealer who can verify the eye-clean status is crucial for ensuring satisfaction with this clarity grade.

The SI1 clarity grade significantly reduces the price of brown diamonds compared to higher grades, typically offering savings of 20-30% versus VS2 of similar color and cut. This substantial price advantage makes SI1 an attractive option for value-conscious buyers seeking larger carat weights or more intense colors. For investment purposes, the value of SI1 brown diamonds tends to remain stable if the stones are eye-clean, as their appearance satisfies most marketplace expectations.

Common inclusions in SI1 brown diamonds include small crystal inclusions, feathers (tiny fractures), clouds (groups of pinpoint inclusions), and occasionally small needles or twinning wisps. The formation process that creates natural brown coloration sometimes produces distinctive inclusions called “grain lines” that appear as faint parallel lines. While more noticeable under magnification than in higher clarity grades, these inclusions rarely impact the diamond’s durability when properly set and cared for.

SI1 clarity offers exceptional value for colored diamonds because the natural brown color provides a masking effect that conceals inclusions more effectively than in colorless stones. This unique characteristic means many SI1 brown diamonds appear visually comparable to higher clarity grades while costing significantly less. For buyers focused primarily on color intensity and cut quality, selecting an eye-clean SI1 can maximize the rare color characteristics and carat size while minimizing the costs associated with technically superior clarity grades that provide no visible benefit.