What are inclusions in a lab-grown diamond?

Inclusions are internal characteristics formed within a diamond's crystal structure during growth, appearing as tiny crystals, feathers, or pinpoints visible for the naked eye or, for the smaller ones, under magnification. IGI grades clarity on a scale from Flawless to I3. At SI2 and below, inclusions may be visible to the unaided eye, while VS1 or higher grades are considered eye-clean by most standards. Lab-grown diamonds develop inclusions through the same physical process as mined stones, whether grown via HPHT or CVD, because rapid crystallization creates the same structural irregularities. The practical difference is that lab-grown production can be monitored more closely, which means eye-clean grades are more consistently available at accessible price points. When comparing stones, prioritize eye-clean appearance over chasing a specific grade on paper. An eye-clean VS2 often represents better value than a VS1 with an inclusion placed near the table.