Who would say no to a high-clarity diamond with no imperfections? Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds are truly gorgeous, but their value and price correspond to their unparalleled excellence, which not everyone can afford.

If you want to enjoy the beauty of flawless diamonds but at a more affordable price, VVS diamonds might be the answer. But how to choose between VVS1 vs. VVS2? Is VVS1 better than VVS2?

Well, both VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds offer a near-flawless appearance, and the inclusions are quite difficult to see even under magnification. However, VVS2 has slightly more visible inclusions that subsequently determine its value.

The choice between VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds is definitely not an easy one. However, by understanding how diamond clarity works and what distinguishes different clarity grades from each other, you can choose the suitable option based on your preferences and budget. So, if you have trouble choosing between VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds, here’s everything you need to know.

Definition and Characteristics

VVS is undoubtedly a high clarity grade, but what does it actually mean, and what’s the difference between VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds?

Let’s take a closer look at their definitions and primary characteristics.

What Is VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included)?

VVS is an abbreviation for Very Very Slightly Included diamonds, indicating that VVS diamonds have very minute inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification, even by skilled graders.

As the difference between VVS and VS diamonds is noticeable, VVS diamonds are further categorized into VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds to reduce the gap between the two clarity grades.

What is VVS1?

VVS1 is a level of diamond clarity that indicates the presence of extremely small inclusions within the diamond, which are difficult for professional appraisers to observe even with a 10x magnifying glass. In the clarity level, VVS1 is considered a high clarity level diamond, which is very suitable for consumers who have high requirements for diamond clarity.

According to GIA , VVS1 diamonds may include pinpoints, needles, internal graining, or clouds that are invisible to the naked eye and extremely difficult to see at 10x magnification.

What is VVS2?

VVS2 is also a level of diamond clarity, with slightly more or more obvious inclusions than VVS1, but still belonging to the extremely small category. Using a 10x magnifying glass, professional appraisers can observe these contents, but they are usually invisible to the naked eye. VVS2 grade diamonds are also considered high purity grade diamonds, making them a great choice for consumers who pursue diamond purity.

Understanding Diamond Clarity

When selecting a diamond, clarity is a critical factor that significantly influences its beauty and value. I will explore how clarity grades are determined and their impact on a diamond's price.                                                                                Clarity Scale Overview

Diamond clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes. The clarity scale, established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), ranks diamonds from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Flawless diamonds are entirely free of internal or external characteristics, while those graded as Internally Flawless (IF) have only surface blemishes. The Very Very Slightly Included categories, VVS1 and VVS2, contain diamonds with minute inclusions that are difficult to see, even under 10x magnification. Very Slightly Included (VS1, VS2) and Slightly Included (SI1, SI2) diamonds have inclusions that are more noticeable under magnification. At the lower end are the Included categories (I1, I2, I3), where inclusions are visible to the naked eye.

Role of Clarity in Diamond Value

The value of a diamond is heavily influenced by its clarity grade. Higher grades such as VVS1 and VVS2 command premium prices due to their rarity and minor inclusions that often require a skilled gemologist to identify. While VVS1 includes diamonds with inclusions only on the bottom half, VVS2 ranked diamonds may have inclusions at the center visible under magnification, influencing their price.

In the clarity grading of diamonds, a jump from one grade to another can have a significant effect on value. For example, the shift from VVS2 to VVS1 clarity is slight in terms of diamond clarity but can lead to a notable increase in price, reflecting in the diamond's overall value. It is important to consider the clarity alongside other factors such as color, cut, and carat weight to determine the true value of a diamond.

Comparing VVS1 and VVS2 Clarit

In the realm of diamond clarity, VVS1 and VVS2 represent the upper echelons of gemstone purity. The differences, while subtle, have implications for value and appearance, discernible under 10x magnification.

VVS1 Clarity Characteristics

VVS1 diamonds are one step closer to perfection on the clarity scale, with inclusions that are incredibly difficult to detect even at 10x magnification. The inclusions in VVS1 graded diamonds—typically pinpoints or minute feathers—are often located at the edges, making them less visible through the table. The strategic position of these inclusions often allows for greater flexibility in setting options, as prongs or bezel settings can further obscure them, assuring the diamond's pristine appearance.

VVS2 Clarity Characteristics

Moving slightly down the clarity hierarchy, VVS2 diamonds still boast a high clarity grade but contain inclusions that are marginally easier to spot under 10x magnification compared to their VVS1 counterparts. Although still minute, the inclusions in a VVS2 diamond, such as additional pinpoints or a small cloud, may be positioned more centrally within the stone. Despite this, it requires a trained eye to identify these differences, especially since these types of inclusions do not generally affect the stone's brilliance.

For those interested in the nuance of diamond grading, understanding how each factor, including clarity grades like VVS, influences a diamond's overall quality and value is essential. You can learn more about how these grades are part of the larger context when considering a diamond’s appeal through comprehensive guides on diamond clarity such as "A Concise Guide to the 4Cs".

VS1 vs VVS2: Differences in Price

There aren't many differences between VS1 and VVS2 diamonds, but you'll pay different prices depending on which clarity grade you decide on.

Diamonds in the VVS2 range are considered the best value of the higher clarities — and it won't compromise your diamond's brilliance. VS1 grade diamonds, on the other hand, will be less expensive than the VVS2 stones. That said, the actual amount you'll pay for your diamond will depend on other factors, including color, cut and diamond weight.

Factors Affecting VVS Diamond Appearance

In understanding the appeal of VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) diamonds, it becomes essential to recognize how certain factors can influence their appearance. These include elements such as cut and color, which are paramount not only in their aesthetic appeal but also in their overall value.

• Influence of Cut on VVS Diamonds

The cut of a VVS diamond profoundly affects its brilliance and fire. A well-cut VVS diamond will exhibit high levels of light reflection, leading to that sought-after sparkle. The precision in the cut allows for optimal light entry and dispersion, accentuating the clarity grade's excellence. On the other hand, a poorly cut VVS diamond might not reflect light as effectively, which means it could lack the brilliance one would expect from such a high-clarity stone. The technique and skills applied in the diamond cut process are crucial to maximizing the stone's visual effects.

• Impact of Color on VVS Diamonds

Moving on, the color or, more specifically, the lack of it, can enhance the perceived clarity of VVS diamonds. VVS stones are located near the top of the color grading scale, where differences can be subtle yet impactful. The presence of any color tinges can detract from the clear and luminous appearance that characterizes these diamonds. Thus, when considering VVS diamonds in conjunction with color grades, buyers should aim for higher color grades to complement the stone’s clarity — a 'D' or 'E' color grade can amplify the inherent purity of a VVS diamond.

The interplay of both cut and color within VVS diamonds makes them some of the most desirable gemstones, glowing with unmatched translucence and refracting light into a spectacle of dazzling beauty. Proper attention to these characteristics is essential in fully appreciating and selecting a VVS diamond that truly lives up to its potential.

Conclusion

The diamonds we see are rated on various charts for various factors. They can be graded on the basis of clarity, as shown above, and on factors like the type of cut, the carat weight, and the color of the diamond. Each of these factors is as important as the other, and they eventually sum up to create the value of the individual piece of diamond. Each diamond has its own identity and these factors make it up.

The beauty of every diamond lies in the way it has been crafted, including the unique inclusions. These inclusions add a unique touch to each diamond and end up enhancing the beauty, which gets appreciated as time passes.

FAQ：

In the complex world of diamond grading, where each minute detail can significantly affect a gemstone's quality and price, understanding the nuances between clarity grades can make all the difference in selecting the perfect diamond.

• What are the main differences between VVS1 and VVS2 clarity grades?

VVS1 and VVS2 stand for "Very, Very Slightly Included" grades, which refer to the presence of minuscule inclusions. The main difference lies in the visibility and position of these inclusions; VVS1 inclusions are typically harder to spot under 10x magnification compared to VVS2. Inclusions in VVS1 are often near the edge of the diamond, making them easier to hide under prongs when set.

• How does VVS2 clarity compare with D color in diamonds?

VVS2 clarity indicates very minute inclusions that are challenging to see, while D color represents the highest grade on the color scale, meaning the diamond is colorless. Combining a VVS2 clarity with a D color can result in a highly valuable and desirable diamond, as it possesses both a high clarity grade and the most sought-after color designation.

• How does a VVS1 grade affect the value and appearance of a diamond?

A VVS1 grade can significantly increase a diamond's value due to its near flawless appearance. The inclusions are so slight that they have little to no effect on the diamond's brilliance and sparkle, maintaining the stone's integrity and beauty.

• Is it better to choose a VVS1 or an internally flawless diamond?

The choice between a VVS1 and an internally flawless (IF) diamond often comes down to personal preference and budget. IF diamonds have no visible inclusions under 10x magnification, making them rarer and more expensive. However, the minute differences between VVS1 and IF are often indiscernible to the naked eye.

• How common are VVS2 diamonds in the market?

VVS2 diamonds are quite common in the market compared to higher clarity grades. They offer a delicate balance between minimal inclusions and cost, making them a popular choice for those seeking high-quality diamonds without the premium price associated with rarer grades.

• Between VVS1 and VS1 clarity grades, which one offers a better value?

Deciding between VVS1 and VS1 for better value can be subjective. VVS1 diamonds contain inclusions that are only slightly less visible than those in VS1 diamonds but can command a higher price. Many consumers find that VS1 diamonds offer a more appealing balance of clarity, imperceptibility of inclusions, and price.