Diamonds are unique because they are the hardest natural material known to man and everyone wants to see the beauty of a diamond. Knowing these various clarity grades can help you a lot when diamond shopping. VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included) and VS (Very Slightly Included) are two common clarity grades. In this in-depth guide we will be breaking down exactly what VVS and VS diamonds are, how they differentiate from each other, and what to think about when purchasing them.
Read More: Are lab-grown diamonds worth buying?
What is Diamond Clarity?
When it comes to diamond clarity, it means a clarity which is absence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (external flaws). The first C, clarity, is one of the Four Cs (the other three being Cut, Color, and Carat) that classify a diamond's quality and worth. The clarity scale was created by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I), with various grades in between.
Read More: What is Lab-Grown Diamond? Things to Know About
Read More: The Pros and Cons of Lab-Grown Diamonds
What Are VVS Diamonds?
VVS diamonds are in 2 sub-levels of VVS1 and VVS2. Many of these diamonds have inclusions that are nearly impossible to find under 10x magnification — kind of like the superman of getting clarity, but a hero that only works when he needs to.
Read More: Do Lab Grown Diamonds Hold Their Value?
VVS1 Diamonds
A bit higher on the VVS scale, VVS1 diamonds contain inclusions perfectable only so that they cannot be seen under 10x magnification. These inclusions usually appear on the pavilion (bottom) of the diamond.
VVS2 Diamonds
In VVS diamonds, VVS1 is a higher grade and VVS2 is a slightly lower grade (a low VVS score is closer to a high VS score than a high VVS).
Read More: Lab Diamonds vs. Mined Diamonds: Cost Comparison
What Are VS Diamonds?
In temperament, VS shots can also be split into 2 sub-grades: VS1 and VS2. Slightly lower than a VVS diamond, VS diamonds will have inclusions that are visible under 10x magnification but are not perceptible to the naked eye.
- VS1 Diamonds: VS1 diamonds are one grade better than VS2 rated diamonds and will have very small, minor inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification.
- VS2 Diamonds: Just below VS1 in clarity, VS2 diamonds have slightly more distinct imperfections that are visible under 10x magnification, but not with the naked eye.
Read More: How are lab grown diamonds made
Comparing VVS and VS Diamonds
Jeweler using a loupe to examine a diamond, illustrating the clarity inspection process.
Clarity and Appearance
- VVS Diamonds - Exceptional clarity is possible with VVS diamonds as they come with few inclusions. Their clarity is so good that they are near flawless to the naked eye and it takes a trained gemologist looking through magnification to see any inclusions.
- VS Diamonds are not as clear as VVS diamonds, but they are still considered of very good clarity. Inclusions are easier with the naked eye but can still be difficult, making them a great choice of diamonds for people wanting the cleanest diamond possible without the VVS price tag.
Read More: Zirconia Diamonds_ The Ultimate Guide to Sparkling Alternatives
Price
- VVS Diamonds: VVS diamonds, the higher clarity of the two, fetches a commensurately higher price. While also quite rare, they are more so than VS diamonds, which makes them costly.
- VS Diamonds— Very slightly fluctuating range offers diamonds with a speck of inclusions, a pocket-friendly choice without still doing remarkable clarity sacrifice. These are perfect for anyone who wants to get that sweet-spot of quality and cost.
Value
- VVS Diamonds: VVS diamonds maintain value quite well due to their rarity and almost perfect clarity. They are essentially investment grade stones.
- VS Diamonds — While less rare than VVS diamonds, VS diamonds are of high value. This is one of the reasons why they are a sought after choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry, as they offer a near perfect balance of clarity and price
What to Consider When Buying VVS or VS Diamonds
Purpose and Preference
- What Do You Want the Diamond For? When it comes to an engagement ring or something of that magnitude, you might want to go with a higher clarity (VVS). You might want to opt for VS diamonds if you intend to wear it everyday or for a less formal piece.
- While some buyers may like the assurance associated with a diamond that is almost (VVS) perfect, other buyers are content with the excellent clarity of VS diamonds.
Budget
Set a Budget on How Much You Are Ready To Spend VVS Diamonds, as they are even more expensive, be on the higher end of your budget VS grade diamonds are an excellent choice for those looking for a good combination of quality, affordability, and appearance.
Certification
This is so important, always purchase diamonds that are certified by reputable organizations like GIA or AGS. A certification proves that the clarity grade of the diamond is accurately determined and gives you some peace of mind while ensuring the transparency in your purchase.
This knowledge will help you to choose the diamond which is best suitable for your requirements and your preferences. The answer is up to you – whether overall value, budget or clarity is more important – both VVS and VS diamonds offer stunning, premium choices that will shine with brilliance for many years to come. GIVA uses SGL certified lab-grown diamonds.
Explore Our Collection Of Lab Grown Diamond
Lab Grown Diamond RingLab Grown Diamond Earrings
Lab Grown Diamond Nose Pin
Lab Grown Diamond Pendant
Lab Grown Diamond Mangalsutra
Lab Grown Diamond Necklace
