From the perfect engagement ring to fine jewelry that dazzles for generations, the mesmerizing sparkle and timeless allure of diamonds have captivated humanity for centuries. There is no doubt that diamonds are treasured for their overall beauty, which is largely attributed to their clarity as well as their
cut quality.
Diamond clarity refers to the lack or presence of internal and external flaws known as inclusions and blemishes; a diamond grader must possess a tremendous amount of expertise in order to complete this complex process accurately.
Valoria Petite Six Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
We'll refer to the
Gemological Institute of America's clarity scale, which divides diamonds (natural or lab grown) into 11 grades, from Flawless (IF) to Included as we discuss VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included) vs VS1 (Very Slightly Included) clarity. The majority of gem diamonds fall somewhere between VVS and SI (Slightly Included).
Technically,
VVS diamonds vs
VS1 are only one clarity grade apart - and the dazzling VVS1 is only one grade away from IF, the rarest diamond clarity grade which represents fewer than 1% of high quality diamonds.
Many buyers can make the most of their engagement ring budget by balancing what they absolutely have to have in terms of the
4C's of diamonds, and what they can compromise on. For example, to increase your diamond's carat or cut quality, you may choose to sacrifice some technical clarity.
With so many clarity grades available, it can be difficult to separate and understand them without some knowledge of their significance.
What is the best option for you? Everything depends on what you must have for your diamond - and what you desire.
As we examine how clarity and brilliance interact, we can better clarify the differences between VVS vs VS1 and how to choose confidently for your diamond. In order to determine whether upgrading to the exquisite VVS diamond clarity grade is an investment worth making, let's take a closer look.
Understanding Diamond Clarity: How to Evaluate Diamonds 101
The rarest diamond grade is a
Flawless diamond, in which no blemishes or inclusions can be seen under a 10x microscope. On the other hand,
included diamonds have prominent flaws that are easily visible under 10x and might compromise their durability, transparency, and appearance.
When evaluating diamonds, light performance imaging can provide valuable information that is not available from visual inspection alone. Diagnostic tools such as ASET, Ideal Scope, and Hearts and Arrows viewer can help us identify light leakage, optical symmetry defects, contrast issues, and other issues present within a diamond.
In high-definition video, scintillation, fire, and other performance elements can be seen dynamically. Furthermore, magnified HD video offers assurance of any clarity features - here you can take a look for yourself. A laboratory report combined with these
comprehensive diamond images can determine a diamond's quality and beauty in a comprehensive manner.
For more information on
diamond clarity and
grading, we have extensive education pages available that can help you gain a better understanding of this important topic. Of course,
our team of experts are also happy to offer any additional insight you need to make a more informed decision.
VVS Clarity Diamonds
Simulated Representation of the Diamond Clarity Scale
A VVS diamond is defined as one that is very, very slightly included in the diamond classification system.
As per the GIA, which developed the most widely used grading scale around the world, VVS
diamonds have inclusions that are difficult to detect under 10x magnification. These inclusions can only be detected by an expert working with a microscope, which means they are by definition completely eye-clean.
VVS grades are subdivided into two subcategories;
VVS1 and
VVS2. Nevertheless, if you placed a VVS1 diamond alongside a VVS2 diamond, you would be unable to tell which diamond has higher clarity with the naked eye. Neither grade displays visible inclusions, which are incredibly small and hard to detect even by skilled graders.
2ct VVS1 Diamond Magnified Photographs
There is no diamond in the world that is not subjected to close scrutiny for color, and especially for cut quality, regardless of clarity. But you’d have to search far and wide for a VVS diamond with balanced 4Cs that disappoints - it would truly be a breathtaking diamond. They are rare, remarkable diamonds, all things considered.
VVS DIAMONDS
1.155 J VVS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$5,695
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1.130 J VVS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$5,175
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1.015 J VVS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$4,995
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1.083 J VVS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$4,950
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VS1 Clarity Diamonds
With VS1, you get a diamond that is at the top of the ‘Very Slightly Included’ category and has no visible inclusions. Even a trained grader has some difficulty seeing anything in a VS1 at 10X magnification.
Those who are new to diamonds may wonder why not just buy the top-tier diamond grades such as (
Flawless and
Internally Flawless). This is a decision that most buyers have to make based on their budget. Due to the rarity of natural diamonds, elite clarity grades come with a significant premium.
In addition to looking the same as VVS and flawless diamonds, VS1 diamonds are much more affordable - sometimes thousands less than their counterparts.
Those who purchase higher-quality diamonds do so because they believe the additional rarity is worth the price; which is something we wholeheartedly support. While there are others who wish to consider more affordable options and simply prefer a diamond that sparkles beautifully.
Both VS1 and VS2 clarity grade provides excellent all-around clarity for your diamond. A VS1 will almost always be completely eye-clean.
Although elite clarity grades are costly due to their scarcity, VS1 diamonds are an exquisite alternative that offers both captivating brilliance and greater affordability. Whatever you decide, we are
here to assist you if needed.
VS1 DIAMONDS
1.150 G VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$9,450
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1.158 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$9,950
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1.122 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$9,660
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1.130 F VS1 Round Ideal
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$9,750
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VVS vs VS1: Differences in Clarity, Rarity & Price
In an ideal world, everyone would wear
IF (internally flawless) or
FL (flawless) grades, but that is neither feasible nor required in our modern world. While it is true that these are the most perfect diamonds, their price also reflects their rarity, making them beyond the reach of many diamond buyers.
Cut can dramatically affect the appearance of inclusions in diamonds. As an example, brilliant cuts help conceal inclusions better due to faster scintillation, whereas step cuts, such as
Emerald or
Asscher, can potentially allow inclusions to be more visible.
If you prefer brilliant cuts such as round, VS1 diamonds are an excellent choice for engagement rings or fine jewelry. In terms of 'collection quality' diamonds, VVS2 diamonds are considered the best value and have uncompromised brilliance.
Don't be afraid to purchase a VS1 diamond if you find one you love, as it is one of the most popular clarity grades due to its pristine appearance and greater affordability! And in all our years of experience, we have never seen and accurately graded VS1 that was not eye-clean with great transparency.
All other things being equal, a VS1 diamond will be less expensive than a VVS diamond. You should remember, however, that color, cut, and diamond weight all affect the price of your diamond. Compromising slightly on technical clarity can help improve those other attributes within a given budget.
The
diamonds we offer at Whiteflash are intended to make you fall in love over and over with each and every glance. When you are trying to determine the right combination of the 4 C’s for your budget, we’re here to help you make informed decisions that take into account all of the above and more.
VVS vs VS1: The Breakdown
The choice between VVS and VS1 is ultimately determined by your personal preference and most likely - your budget. There are several factors to consider when choosing a diamond: budget, beauty, and taste, for example.
The only thing that matters to some people is the beauty of the diamond that fits within their budget, not the rarity of the diamond. For others, it is important to own something exceptional that meets the highest purity standards.
It's worth considering both VS1 and VVS diamonds, there is much to admire in both grading categories. We've delved into a few deeper considerations below.
Price:
Compared to FL or IF diamonds, VVS diamonds are less expensive. However, there is also a significant price difference between VS and VVS grades as well.
It is important to note that a diamond's price is determined by four major factors: its color, cut, clarity, and carat. Thus, VVS diamond prices can be low when the diamond is small, poorly cut, or of poor color. Even so, well-cut VVS diamonds with a desirable icy color and good size are extremely valuable, as you can see in any
VVS diamond price chart.
A VS1 diamond with a similar cut, color, and carat can differ in price by 10% to 30% lower than a comparable VVS diamond with the same grading. This is just a rough estimate, and the actual price difference could be larger depending on the specific characteristics of the diamonds and the current market conditions. Naturally, the price difference increases with the size of the diamond.
When a diamond is set in jewelry like a ring and viewed under normal lighting conditions, it is usually almost impossible to tell the difference between a VVS1 or VVS2 diamond and a VS1 diamond based on clarity.
Selecting diamonds that are 'eye-clean' and free of problematic inclusions is the best way to balance beauty and budget - you can consider anything from SI and above in this regard.
Rarity:
In addition to being eye-clean, a VVS diamond is highly sought-after and collectible; this exceptional rarity increases its value. If the diamond's color grade is high and its cut is exquisite, it would qualify as a 'collector's quality' diamond. A quality that goes beyond what the naked eye can see is evident at this level of purity and rarity.
While it is quite possible to find eye-clean diamonds in the VS clarity grade and even lower - provided you can examine the diamond using
high-resolution imaging - for some, VVS diamonds are the only choice because of their rarity.
Inclusions:
VVS diamonds typically have very few imperfections that are extremely tiny (usually pinpoints). There are usually a few more inclusions (or slightly bigger ones) in VS1 diamonds, such as
crystals, clouds, or other features.
As long as the diamond is eye-clean and has an incredible cut, it can still produce a truly stunning diamond at a reasonable price. If you are seeking a collector's quality diamond and are a connoisseur of finer things, a VVS diamond might be your best choice.
The Lab Grown Diamond Alternative?
Lab Grown VS & VVS Diamonds
The VVS grade is reserved for extremely high-quality and clear diamonds, so they are rare and expensive in natural diamonds. Today, diamond shoppers have another more affordable option;
lab-grown diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds have essentially the same chemical, physical, and optical qualities as natural diamonds and have quickly become popular due to their affordability andthe possibilities they unlock.
Due to their increasing quality, availability, and affordability, lab diamonds have become increasingly popular in recent years. As lab diamonds manufactured in at scale, rarity is not a determining factor of price, so high-clarity and top color diamonds are more readily available.
It is recommended that any diamond purchase, whether it is lab-grown or natural, be accompanied by a gem laboratory report, such as one from GIA or IGI.
With lab diamonds, it is no longer necessary to sacrifice top clarity, cut or color grades. With the savings, many couples are opting to invest more in designer engagement rings and styles, which were otherwise limited by overall budget.
It is always best to make sure that the cut quality is never compromised when shopping for natural diamonds or lab-created diamonds, as this often has the most prominent effect on a diamond's appearance.
It is our belief that an informed decision leads to a confident one. Because of this, we place a high priority on transparency and
education throughout your diamond exploration. The information we provide, from detailed diamond information to expert guidance, empowers you to make choices that align with your own preferences and values.
VS1 vs VVS1: A Summary
A natural diamond is the best option if you're seeking a treasure that will maintain its value over time. Natural diamonds with VVS clarity will come at a higher price when they are larger carats with high color and cut quality.
There are people who are drawn to the pursuit of perfection. They love knowing their stone is practically flawless, and completely faultless to the naked eye. We wholeheartedly approve of this option as long as you're aware of the fact that beautiful diamonds do not need a VVS clarity grade.
VS and SI diamonds can also have excellent value, but they must be evaluated on a case-by-case basis - which is why it is crucial to work with an experienced and transparent jeweler.
When you want to maximize carat size, cut, and clarity, VVS Lab diamonds may be the best choice for you. Among the 4Cs, there is little need to compromise in lab diamonds and all the more reason to put those cost savings towards a beautiful setting.
Most savvy diamond shoppers shop online to find the best price since VVS natural diamonds carry a well-deserved premium while VS diamonds may require comprehensive grading and imagery for proper consideration. A vendor should provide complete transparency and exceptional quality information when purchasing diamonds at this level, or indeed with any diamond purchase.
Finding the Ideal Diamond for You at Whiteflash
The filter tools on Whiteflash help you find the perfect diamond from a wide selection of VVS and VS clarity diamonds (among many others). Additionally, you can seek out diamonds with the highest pedigree in our
A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series.
In this collection, you will find the world's most superb diamonds, combining the precision cut quality of A CUT ABOVE® with the highest grades of color and clarity (DEF and FL-VVS).
There is more to buying a diamond than just buying a commodity. In order to make an informed decision, many factors must be considered. For this reason, it's important that when you're looking to buy, upgrade, and get the most out of your purchase, you choose a jeweler who is well-reviewed, knowledgeable and most importantly,
excited to hear all about your diamond desires. Let Whiteflash be your first choice when buying your special diamond!