VS Diamonds vs VVS Diamonds Full Comparison Guide

Lightmark

·December 29, 2024

·26 min read

When it comes to choosing the perfect diamond, understanding clarity is essential. VS diamonds, or "Very Slightly Included" diamonds, and VVS diamonds, short for "Very, Very Slightly Included," represent two high-quality clarity grades. The primary difference lies in the inclusions—tiny imperfections within the diamond. VS diamonds have inclusions that are hard to spot under magnification, while VVS diamonds feature even smaller inclusions, nearly impossible to detect. Clarity not only impacts a diamond's beauty but also its rarity and value, making it a key factor in your decision.

Understanding Diamond Clarity

When you’re shopping for diamonds, clarity plays a huge role in determining their beauty and value. Let’s break down what diamond clarity means, how it’s graded, and why it matters to you as a buyer.

What is Diamond Clarity?

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal flaws, known as inclusions, and surface imperfections, called blemishes. These tiny imperfections form naturally during the diamond’s creation process deep within the Earth. Clarity measures how visible these imperfections are when viewed under magnification.

The fewer inclusions or blemishes a diamond has, the higher its clarity grade. High-clarity diamonds, like VVS diamonds, often appear flawless to the naked eye. On the other hand, diamonds with lower clarity grades may have visible imperfections that can affect their overall appearance.

How is Diamond Clarity Graded?

Overview of the GIA Clarity Scale

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) developed a standardized clarity grading scale to evaluate diamonds. This scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I), with several grades in between:

Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions, only minor surface blemishes.
Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 and VVS2): Minute inclusions that are extremely difficult to detect under 10x magnification.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 and VS2): Small inclusions that are hard to see under 10x magnification.
Slightly Included (SI1 and SI2): Noticeable inclusions under magnification, sometimes visible to the naked eye.
Included (I1, I2, I3): Obvious inclusions that may affect transparency and brilliance.

This scale ensures consistency in clarity grading, helping you compare diamonds more easily.

Importance of Clarity in Diamond Quality

Clarity directly impacts a diamond’s brilliance and sparkle. High-clarity diamonds, such as VVS diamonds, reflect light more effectively because they have fewer inclusions to disrupt the light’s path. This results in a dazzling display of fire and scintillation. Lower-clarity diamonds may not shine as brightly, as inclusions can block or scatter light.

When choosing a diamond, clarity is one of the key factors that determines its overall quality. While other aspects like cut and color also matter, clarity ensures the diamond looks clean and beautiful.

Why Clarity Matters for Buyers

As a buyer, clarity affects both the appearance and value of your diamond. A diamond with higher clarity grades, like VVS or VS diamonds, will look cleaner and more brilliant. These diamonds are also rarer, which makes them more valuable.

However, clarity isn’t just about perfection. It’s about finding the right balance for your needs. For example, if you’re buying a smaller diamond, inclusions may not be noticeable, so you could opt for a VS diamond. But if you’re investing in a larger stone, clarity becomes more important since imperfections are easier to spot.

Ultimately, understanding diamond clarity helps you make an informed decision. Whether you prioritize visual perfection or want to balance clarity with other factors like budget, knowing what clarity means ensures you’ll choose a diamond that fits your preferences.

What Are VS Diamonds?

When exploring diamond clarity, you’ll often come across VS diamonds. These diamonds, short for "Very Slightly Included," strike a balance between quality and affordability. They offer exceptional beauty while maintaining a more accessible price point compared to higher-clarity grades like VVS diamonds.

Definition of VS Diamonds

VS diamonds are graded as having small inclusions that are difficult to detect under 10x magnification. These inclusions are typically minor and don’t significantly impact the diamond’s overall appearance. The VS clarity grade is further divided into two subcategories:

VS1 Diamonds: These have fewer and smaller inclusions, making them closer to the VVS clarity grade.
VS2 Diamonds: These may have slightly more noticeable inclusions under magnification but still appear clean to the naked eye in most cases.

This clarity grade ensures that you get a diamond that looks stunning without paying the premium price of higher-clarity options.

Characteristics of VS Diamonds

Types of Inclusions Found in VS Diamonds

VS diamonds may contain a variety of inclusions, such as small crystals, feathers, or clouds. These imperfections form naturally during the diamond’s creation process. The inclusions in VS diamonds are usually tiny and scattered, making them hard to spot even under magnification. However, the type and location of these inclusions can vary.

For example, some VS diamonds might have inclusions near the center of the crown, while others may feature them closer to the edges. The size and placement of these inclusions play a role in determining whether a diamond is graded as VS1 or VS2.

Visibility of Inclusions in VS Diamonds

In most cases, inclusions in VS diamonds are invisible to the naked eye. You’d need a jeweler’s loupe or a microscope to identify them. However, in rare instances, a VS2 diamond might have inclusions that are slightly visible without magnification, especially if the inclusions are larger or located in a prominent area.

Despite this, VS diamonds maintain their brilliance and sparkle. Their inclusions are so minor that they don’t disrupt the way light passes through the diamond, ensuring a dazzling appearance.

Pros and Cons of VS Diamonds

Choosing VS diamonds comes with its own set of advantages and considerations. Here’s a quick breakdown:

Pros:

Eye-clean appearance: Most VS diamonds look flawless to the naked eye, offering excellent visual appeal.
Affordable luxury: They provide a high-quality option without the steep price tag of VVS or Flawless diamonds.
Wide availability: VS diamonds are more common than higher-clarity grades, giving you more options to choose from.

Cons:

Potential for visible inclusions: In rare cases, inclusions in VS2 diamonds might be noticeable without magnification.
Not as rare: While still valuable, VS diamonds are less rare than VVS or Flawless diamonds, which may affect their long-term investment value.

VS diamonds offer a perfect middle ground for buyers who want a beautiful diamond without overspending. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring or another piece of jewelry, this clarity grade ensures you get a stunning gem that fits your budget.

What Are VVS Diamonds?

When it comes to diamonds, VVS diamonds stand out for their exceptional clarity and near-flawless appearance. These diamonds, short for "Very, Very Slightly Included," are highly sought after for their brilliance and rarity. If you're looking for a diamond that exudes elegance and perfection, understanding what makes VVS diamonds unique is essential.

Definition of VVS Diamonds

VVS diamonds are graded as having inclusions so tiny that even under 10x magnification, they are extremely difficult to detect. These inclusions are so minute that they don’t affect the diamond’s overall appearance or brilliance. To the naked eye, VVS diamonds appear flawless, making them a top choice for those who value clarity.

The VVS clarity grade is divided into two subcategories:

VVS1 Diamonds: These have fewer and less visible inclusions, placing them at the higher end of the clarity scale.
VVS2 Diamonds: These may have slightly more inclusions than VVS1 diamonds, but the differences are often imperceptible without magnification.

This grading ensures that VVS diamonds maintain their superior quality and dazzling beauty.

Characteristics of VVS Diamonds

Types of Inclusions Found in VVS Diamonds

Inclusions in VVS diamonds are incredibly small and often require expert examination to identify. These might include tiny crystals, pinpoint marks, or faint clouds. The inclusions are so insignificant that they don’t disrupt the diamond’s sparkle or brilliance. Whether you choose VVS1 diamonds or VVS2 diamonds, you can expect a gem that looks pristine and radiant.

Visibility of Inclusions in VVS Diamonds

The inclusions in VVS diamonds are virtually invisible to the naked eye. Even under magnification, spotting these imperfections can be challenging, even for skilled gemologists. This level of clarity ensures that VVS diamonds deliver unmatched brilliance and sparkle. Their flawless appearance makes them ideal for engagement rings, necklaces, and other fine jewelry.

Pros and Cons of VVS Diamonds

Choosing VVS diamonds offers several advantages, but it’s important to weigh the pros and cons to determine if they’re the right fit for you.

Pros:

Exceptional clarity: The near-flawless appearance of VVS diamonds ensures unmatched brilliance and beauty.
Rarity: These diamonds are less common than lower-clarity grades, making them a unique and valuable choice.
Timeless elegance: Their superior clarity enhances the sparkle, elevating the look of any jewelry piece.

Cons:

Higher cost: The rarity and quality of VVS diamonds come with a premium price tag, which may not fit every budget.
Minimal visual difference: Compared to VS diamonds, the clarity difference may not be noticeable to the untrained eye, especially in smaller stones.

If you’re seeking a diamond that combines rarity, brilliance, and a flawless appearance, VVS diamonds are an excellent choice. Whether you opt for VVS1 diamonds or VVS2 diamonds, you’ll own a gem that radiates luxury and sophistication.

Key Differences Between VS and VVS Diamonds

When deciding between VS and VVS diamonds, understanding their key differences can help you make the right choice. Let’s break it down into three main aspects: clarity and inclusions, rarity and availability, and price comparison.

Clarity and Inclusions

Clarity plays a significant role in determining a diamond’s beauty and value. VS diamonds, or "Very Slightly Included" diamonds, have small inclusions that are hard to detect under 10x magnification. These inclusions are minor and often invisible to the naked eye, making VS diamonds an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between quality and cost.

On the other hand, VVS diamonds, short for "Very, Very Slightly Included," rank higher on the clarity scale. These diamonds feature inclusions so minute that even under magnification, they are extremely difficult to spot. VVS1 diamonds, in particular, are nearly flawless, with inclusions that are almost impossible to detect. VVS2 diamonds also maintain exceptional clarity, though they may have slightly more inclusions than VVS1 diamonds. Both grades ensure a near-perfect appearance, making them ideal for those who prioritize brilliance and perfection.

Quick Tip: If you’re looking for a diamond with a clean appearance but want to save money, VS clarity diamonds might be your best bet. However, if you desire a near-flawless gem, VVS diamonds deliver unmatched clarity.

Rarity and Availability

Rarity significantly impacts a diamond’s desirability. VVS diamonds are much rarer than VS diamonds due to their exceptional clarity. Their scarcity makes them highly sought after, especially for engagement rings and fine jewelry. VVS1 diamonds, being closer to perfection, are even less common than VVS2 diamonds, adding to their exclusivity.

VS diamonds, while still considered high-quality, are more readily available. Their inclusions, though slightly more noticeable under magnification, do not detract from their overall beauty. This makes VS diamonds a popular choice for buyers who want a stunning gem without the premium price tag associated with rarer clarity grades.

Did You Know? The rarity of VVS diamonds contributes to their higher value, making them a timeless investment for those who appreciate luxury and exclusivity.

Price Comparison

Price is often a deciding factor when choosing between VS and VVS diamonds. VVS diamonds command a higher price due to their superior clarity and rarity. The cost difference between VVS1 diamonds and VVS2 diamonds can also vary, with VVS1 diamonds typically being more expensive because of their near-flawless quality.

VS diamonds, by contrast, offer a more budget-friendly option. While they don’t match the clarity of VVS diamonds, their inclusions are still minimal and often undetectable without magnification. This makes VS diamonds an attractive choice for buyers who want a beautiful diamond without exceeding their budget.

Pro Tip: If you’re working within a budget, consider a VS diamond. It provides excellent value without compromising on beauty. For those willing to invest more for exceptional clarity, VVS diamonds are worth the splurge.

By understanding these differences, you can choose a diamond that aligns with your preferences and budget. Whether you opt for the brilliance of VVS diamonds or the affordability of VS diamonds, both options offer stunning beauty and quality.

Visual Differences (Are They Noticeable?)

When comparing VS and VVS diamonds, you might wonder if the visual differences are noticeable. The truth is, for most people, these differences are nearly impossible to detect without specialized tools. Both VS and VVS diamonds offer exceptional clarity, making them appear stunning to the naked eye.

The primary distinction lies in the inclusions. VS diamonds have small inclusions that are hard to spot under 10x magnification, while VVS diamonds feature even tinier inclusions that are extremely difficult to detect, even with magnification. However, these inclusions are so minor that they rarely affect the diamond's overall appearance.

"The only reliable way to distinguish VS and VVS diamonds is by inspecting them under 10x magnification." This means that unless you're a gemologist or using professional equipment, you likely won't see any difference between the two.

In terms of sparkle and brilliance, both VS and VVS diamonds excel. Their light performance remains exceptional, as their inclusions are too small to disrupt the way light reflects and refracts within the stone. This makes it nearly impossible to differentiate them based on how sparkly they look.

If you're trying to decide between the two, consider this: the visual difference is negligible, but the price difference can be significant. VVS diamonds command a higher price due to their rarity and superior clarity grade. On the other hand, VS diamonds provide a more budget-friendly option while still delivering a clean and brilliant appearance.

Ultimately, the choice comes down to your priorities. If you value near-flawless clarity and are willing to invest more, VVS diamonds are an excellent choice. If you're looking for a balance between beauty and cost, VS diamonds offer incredible value without compromising on visual appeal.

How to Choose Between VS and VVS Diamonds

Selecting between VS and VVS diamonds can feel overwhelming, but focusing on a few key factors will simplify your decision. Your budget, the diamond's purpose, and how clarity fits into the bigger picture all play a role in finding the perfect gem.

Consider Your Budget

Your budget is often the first thing to consider when choosing between VS and VVS diamonds. VVS diamonds, with their exceptional clarity and rarity, come with a higher price tag. If you’re looking for a near-flawless gem and are willing to invest more, VVS diamonds are an excellent choice. However, VS diamonds offer a more affordable option without sacrificing beauty. Their inclusions are so minor that they remain invisible to the naked eye in most cases, making them a smart choice for those who want quality without overspending.

Pro Tip: If you’re working within a budget, prioritize other factors like cut and carat weight. A well-cut VS diamond can outshine a poorly cut VVS diamond, even if the latter has higher clarity.

Think About the Diamond's Purpose

The purpose of the diamond also influences your decision. Are you buying an engagement ring, a necklace, or a pair of earrings? Each type of jewelry has different clarity requirements.

Engagement Rings vs. Other Jewelry

Engagement rings often take center stage, so clarity becomes more important. A VVS diamond ensures a flawless appearance, perfect for a ring that symbolizes love and commitment. However, VS diamonds still provide stunning brilliance and are a popular choice for engagement rings due to their balance of quality and cost.

For other types of jewelry, like earrings or pendants, clarity might not be as critical. These pieces are usually viewed from a distance, making inclusions less noticeable. In such cases, VS diamonds can offer excellent value while maintaining a beautiful appearance.

Importance of Clarity for Larger Diamonds

The size of the diamond matters when considering clarity. Larger diamonds tend to reveal inclusions more easily, so opting for a higher clarity grade like VVS becomes more important. Smaller diamonds, on the other hand, can mask inclusions better, making VS diamonds a practical and cost-effective choice.

Quick Tip: If you’re buying a diamond over 1 carat, consider investing in higher clarity grades like VVS. For smaller stones, VS diamonds often look just as flawless to the naked eye.

Balance Clarity with Other Factors (Cut, Color, Carat)

Clarity is important, but it’s just one piece of the puzzle. To choose the perfect diamond, you need to balance clarity with other factors like cut, color, and carat weight. The cut determines how well the diamond reflects light, directly affecting its sparkle. A poorly cut diamond, regardless of its clarity, will lack brilliance.

Color also plays a role in the diamond’s overall appearance. A slightly lower clarity grade, like VS, paired with a higher color grade can create a stunning combination. Carat weight, which refers to the size of the diamond, often takes priority for buyers who want a larger stone.

Did You Know? Many experts recommend prioritizing cut over clarity. A well-cut VS diamond can appear more brilliant than a VVS diamond with a mediocre cut.

When choosing between VS and VVS diamonds, think about what matters most to you. Do you value size, sparkle, or a flawless appearance? By balancing clarity with other factors, you’ll find a diamond that fits your needs and preferences perfectly.

When to Choose VS Diamonds

VS diamonds are an excellent choice when you want a balance between quality and affordability. These diamonds, with their "Very Slightly Included" clarity grade, offer stunning beauty without the premium price tag of higher-clarity options. If you're looking for a diamond that appears clean to the naked eye but fits within a more modest budget, VS diamonds are the way to go.

You might choose VS diamonds if you're prioritizing other aspects of the diamond, such as carat size or cut. For example, a well-cut VS diamond can deliver exceptional brilliance and sparkle, often outshining a poorly cut VVS diamond. This makes VS diamonds a smart option for buyers who value overall visual appeal over microscopic perfection.

VS diamonds are also ideal for smaller stones. Inclusions in smaller diamonds are harder to spot, even under magnification. This means you can enjoy a beautiful gem without worrying about visible imperfections. Additionally, VS diamonds work well for jewelry pieces like earrings or pendants, where clarity is less noticeable due to the viewing distance.

Quick Tip: If you're buying a diamond for everyday wear, such as an engagement ring, VS diamonds provide durability and beauty without breaking the bank. Their inclusions are so minor that they won't affect the diamond's brilliance or structural integrity.

For those who want a high-quality diamond that balances beauty and cost, VS diamonds offer incredible value. They allow you to invest in a larger carat size or a higher color grade while still enjoying a visually stunning gem.

When to Choose VVS Diamonds

VVS diamonds are the perfect choice when you desire the highest level of clarity and brilliance. These "Very, Very Slightly Included" diamonds feature inclusions so tiny that even under magnification, they are nearly impossible to detect. If you're seeking a near-flawless gem that exudes luxury and sophistication, VVS diamonds are unmatched.

You should consider VVS diamonds for engagement rings or other statement pieces. Their exceptional clarity ensures a dazzling appearance that will stand out in any setting. Whether you're proposing or celebrating a milestone, a VVS diamond symbolizes elegance and perfection. These diamonds are especially striking in larger carat sizes, where their clarity enhances their brilliance and sparkle.

VVS diamonds are also a great alternative to Flawless or Internally Flawless diamonds. They offer a similar near-perfect appearance but at a more accessible price point. This makes them a smart investment for those who want top-tier quality without paying a premium for absolute perfection.

Did You Know? VVS diamonds are versatile and shine brightly in various settings, from solitaire rings to intricate halo designs. Their clarity ensures they remain the focal point of any jewelry piece.

If you're willing to invest in a premium gemstone, VVS diamonds deliver unparalleled beauty and rarity. They are ideal for buyers who value clarity above all else and want a diamond that will turn heads for years to come.

Lab-Grown VS and VVS Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds have gained immense popularity in recent years, offering a modern alternative to natural diamonds. If you're considering lab-grown options, understanding their clarity grades and benefits can help you make an informed decision.

What Are Lab-Grown Diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond formation process. These diamonds share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, making them virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye.

Unlike natural diamonds, which form over billions of years deep within the Earth, lab-grown diamonds are produced in weeks or months. This process involves two primary methods:

High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT): Mimics the intense heat and pressure found in the Earth's mantle.
Chemical Vapor Deposition (CVD): Uses carbon-rich gases to grow diamonds layer by layer.

The result? A diamond that looks and performs just like its natural counterpart. Whether you're looking for VS or VVS diamonds, lab-grown options deliver exceptional quality and beauty.

Fun Fact: Lab-grown diamonds undergo the same grading process as natural diamonds, ensuring their clarity, cut, color, and carat weight meet industry standards.

How Do Lab-Grown VS and VVS Diamonds Compare to Natural Diamonds?

Lab-grown VS and VVS diamonds match the quality of natural diamonds in every way. Their clarity grades, such as VS1 or VVS2, are assessed using the same criteria as natural diamonds. This means you can expect the same brilliance and sparkle from a lab-grown diamond as you would from a mined one.

For example, a lab-grown diamond with a VS1 clarity grade will have inclusions that are difficult to detect under 10x magnification, just like a natural VS1 diamond. Similarly, VVS diamonds grown in labs feature minute inclusions that are nearly impossible to spot, even under magnification.

Did You Know? Studies show that lab-grown diamonds with VS1 and VVS clarity grades are comparable to natural diamonds in terms of quality and optical properties. This makes them an excellent choice for buyers seeking high clarity without compromising on beauty.

The only noticeable difference lies in their origin. Lab-grown diamonds are created in laboratories, while natural diamonds are mined from the Earth. However, this distinction doesn't affect their appearance or performance.

Benefits of Choosing Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds offer several advantages that make them an appealing option for modern buyers. Here’s why you might consider them:

Ethical and Sustainable: Lab-grown diamonds are a more ethical choice since they don't involve mining, which can harm the environment and local communities. If sustainability matters to you, lab-grown diamonds provide a guilt-free alternative.
Cost-Effective: Lab-grown diamonds are typically 20-40% less expensive than natural diamonds of the same quality. This allows you to invest in a larger carat size or a higher clarity grade, like VVS diamonds, without exceeding your budget.
Exceptional Quality: Lab-grown diamonds undergo rigorous grading processes, ensuring they meet the same standards as natural diamonds. Whether you choose VS or VVS clarity, you’ll receive a diamond with stunning brilliance and beauty.
Rarity Without the Price Tag: While natural VVS diamonds are rare and expensive, lab-grown VVS diamonds offer the same near-flawless clarity at a more accessible price. This makes them a practical yet luxurious choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry.

Pro Tip: If you're looking for a diamond that combines ethical sourcing, affordability, and exceptional quality, lab-grown diamonds are worth considering. They offer the same sparkle and elegance as natural diamonds, with added peace of mind.

Lab-grown VS and VVS diamonds provide a perfect blend of beauty, value, and sustainability. Whether you're shopping for an engagement ring or a special gift, these diamonds deliver unmatched brilliance while aligning with modern values.

Are Lab-Grown VS and VVS Diamonds Worth It?

Lab-grown VS and VVS diamonds have become a popular choice for many buyers. But are they worth it? Let’s explore why these diamonds might be the perfect option for you.

First, lab-grown diamonds offer the same brilliance and quality as natural ones. They share identical physical, chemical, and optical properties. This means a lab-grown VS or VVS diamond will sparkle just as beautifully as a natural diamond of the same clarity grade. You won’t notice any difference in appearance, even under magnification.

Second, these diamonds provide exceptional value for your money. Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 20-40% less than their natural counterparts. This price difference allows you to choose a larger carat size or a higher clarity grade without exceeding your budget. For example, you could opt for a stunning VVS diamond that might otherwise be out of reach if it were mined.

Third, lab-grown diamonds align with modern values. They are an ethical and sustainable choice. Since they don’t involve mining, they avoid the environmental and social issues often associated with natural diamonds. If you care about making eco-friendly and socially responsible purchases, lab-grown diamonds are a guilt-free option.

Finally, lab-grown VS and VVS diamonds are versatile. Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, a pendant, or earrings, these diamonds deliver unmatched beauty. Their clarity ensures they look flawless in any setting, making them a timeless addition to your jewelry collection.

So, are they worth it? Absolutely. Lab-grown VS and VVS diamonds combine beauty, affordability, and sustainability. They let you enjoy the luxury of high-quality diamonds while staying within your budget and supporting ethical practices.

Choosing between VS diamonds and VVS diamonds depends on your priorities. VS diamonds offer a balance of clarity and affordability, making them ideal for those seeking beauty without overspending. On the other hand, VVS diamonds provide unmatched clarity and rarity, perfect for buyers who value near-flawless quality. Consider your budget, personal preferences, and the diamond's purpose when making your decision. Remember, diamond clarity is just one factor—balancing it with cut, color, and carat ensures you select a gem that truly shines. Whether you choose VS or VVS, both clarity grades promise stunning diamonds.

FAQ

How can you tell if a diamond is a VVS diamond?

VVS diamonds, short for "Very, Very Slightly Included," have inclusions so tiny that even under 10x magnification, they are extremely difficult to detect. To identify a VVS diamond, you’ll need a jeweler’s loupe or microscope. Even then, spotting the inclusions requires a trained eye. To the naked eye, VVS diamonds appear flawless, making them a top choice for those who value clarity. If you’re unsure, always ask for a grading report from a trusted gemological institute like GIA.

Quick Tip: Both VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds are eye-clean, meaning their inclusions are invisible without magnification.

What is the difference between VS and VVS clarity diamonds?

The main difference lies in the size and visibility of inclusions. VS diamonds, or "Very Slightly Included" diamonds, have small inclusions that are hard to see under 10x magnification. VVS diamonds, on the other hand, feature even smaller inclusions that are nearly impossible to detect, even with magnification. While both clarity grades look identical to the naked eye, VVS diamonds rank higher on the clarity scale and are rarer, which makes them more expensive.

Did You Know? The price difference between VS and VVS diamonds can be significant, even though the visual difference is minimal to most buyers.

Are VVS diamonds worth the extra cost?

VVS diamonds are worth the investment if you prioritize exceptional clarity and rarity. Their near-flawless appearance ensures unmatched brilliance and sparkle. However, if you’re working within a budget, VS diamonds offer a more affordable option while still appearing clean to the naked eye. Consider your priorities—if clarity perfection matters most, VVS diamonds are an excellent choice. For a balance of beauty and cost, VS diamonds might be the better option.

Can you see the difference between VS and VVS diamonds with the naked eye?

No, the differences between VS and VVS diamonds are not visible to the naked eye. Both clarity grades appear flawless without magnification. The distinction becomes noticeable only under 10x magnification, where VVS diamonds show fewer and smaller inclusions compared to VS diamonds. For most buyers, the visual difference is negligible, making both options stunning choices.

Why are VVS diamonds more expensive than VS diamonds?

VVS diamonds are more expensive because of their superior clarity and rarity. Their inclusions are so minute that they are nearly undetectable, even under magnification. This level of perfection makes them highly sought after, especially for engagement rings and fine jewelry. VS diamonds, while still high-quality, are more common and have slightly larger inclusions, which lowers their price compared to VVS diamonds.

Do VVS diamonds sparkle more than VS diamonds?

Both VVS and VS diamonds offer exceptional sparkle, as their inclusions are too small to disrupt light reflection. The sparkle of a diamond depends more on its cut than its clarity. A well-cut VS diamond can shine just as brilliantly as a VVS diamond. If sparkle is your priority, focus on the diamond’s cut grade rather than solely on clarity.

Are VVS diamonds a good investment?

Yes, VVS diamonds can be a good investment due to their rarity and high clarity grade. Their near-flawless appearance makes them desirable and valuable. However, the resale value of any diamond depends on market demand, certification, and overall quality. If you’re buying a diamond as an investment, choose one with a GIA certification and consider other factors like cut, color, and carat weight.

Can lab-grown diamonds have VVS clarity?

Yes, lab-grown diamonds can achieve VVS clarity grades. These diamonds undergo the same grading process as natural diamonds, ensuring their clarity, cut, color, and carat meet industry standards. Lab-grown VVS diamonds offer the same brilliance and near-flawless appearance as their natural counterparts but at a more affordable price. They are an excellent choice for buyers seeking high clarity without exceeding their budget.

Should you choose VVS diamonds for an engagement ring?

VVS diamonds are an excellent choice for engagement rings if you value clarity and rarity. Their near-flawless appearance ensures a dazzling centerpiece for your ring. However, if you’re balancing clarity with other factors like carat size or budget, VS diamonds can also deliver stunning results. Both options provide exceptional beauty, so the choice depends on your preferences and priorities.

How do you know if a diamond is certified?

To confirm a diamond’s certification, ask for a grading report from a reputable gemological institute like GIA or AGS. The report will detail the diamond’s clarity, cut, color, carat weight, and other characteristics. Certified diamonds come with a unique identification number, which you can verify online through the certifying institute’s database. Always purchase diamonds from trusted jewelers who provide proper documentation.