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Expert Guide to the VVS Clarity Diamond
When it comes to buying a high-clarity diamond, understanding what VVS Clarity truly means can save you from overpaying or settling for the wrong stone. This expert guide is written by Benjamin Khordipour, a renowned diamond gemologist, jewelry celebrity, author, and sought-after lecturer in the world of fine jewelry.
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What Is a VVS Clarity Diamond?
A VVS clarity diamond (short for Very, Very Slightly Included) is a natural diamond with extremely small inclusions that are nearly impossible to detect, even under 10x magnification. These inclusions are so minor that they have virtually no impact on the diamond’s appearance to the naked eye. VVS diamonds are divided into two subgrades: VVS1, which has slightly fewer or smaller inclusions, and VVS2, which has inclusions that are slightly more noticeable under magnification, though still incredibly minimal.
Because of their near-flawless appearance, VVS clarity diamonds are often chosen by collectors and connoisseurs who prioritize purity and investment value. However, it’s important to note that the difference between a VVS diamond and a VS (Very Slightly Included) diamond is almost never visible without magnification. That’s why understanding the grading system and the visual differences—if any—can help you make a smarter purchase that balances beauty, value, and rarity.
What Types of Inclusions Are in VVS Diamonds?
VVS diamonds may be incredibly clean to the eye, but they still contain tiny inclusions that prevent them from being classified as Internally Flawless (IF). The types of inclusions found in VVS diamonds are typically so small and faint that they can only be seen under high-powered magnification by an expert.
Common inclusion types in VVS diamonds include pinpoint inclusions (tiny white or black dots), internal graining (faint lines within the crystal), or very small feathers (tiny internal fractures). These inclusions are usually located near the edges of the diamond, where they’re even less noticeable.
What sets VVS inclusions apart is not just their size, but also their position and nature. Grading labs like the GIA look closely at where the inclusions are located and how visible they are under 10x magnification. If the inclusion is nearly invisible and placed far from the table (the top flat surface of the diamond), it may qualify as VVS1. If it’s just slightly more noticeable or closer to the center, it might be graded VVS2. Either way, the clarity of a VVS diamond ensures a clean and brilliant appearance, even under close scrutiny.
How Much Does a VVS Clarity Diamond Cost?
VVS clarity diamonds are considered premium stones, and their prices reflect that high level of purity. Compared to lower clarity grades like VS or SI, VVS diamonds often come with a noticeable price increase—sometimes several hundred or even thousands of dollars more for stones of the same size and cut. The cost can also vary depending on whether the diamond is graded VVS1 or VVS2, with VVS1 being slightly more expensive due to its closer proximity to flawless. While the visual difference may be minimal, the rarity and desirability of VVS diamonds drive their market value higher.
| Carat Weight | VVS1 Clarity (J Color) | VVS2 Clarity (J Color) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.50-Carat Round | $1,125 | $1,063 |
| 1.00-Carat Round | $5,000 | $4,625 |
| 1.50-Carat Round | $12,563 | $11,438 |
| 2.00-Carat Round | $24,750 | $22,750 |
| 3.00-Carat Round | $61,875 | $56,250 |
| 4.00-Carat Round | $105,000 | $97,500 |
| 5.00-Carat Round | $162,500 | $150,000 |
Interested in a VVS-Clarity diamond? Send us a message for our wholesale prices.
Comparison: VVS1 Clarity vs. VVS2 Clarity
VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds differ primarily in the location, number, and visibility of their inclusions under 10x magnification. In VVS1 diamonds, inclusions are typically so minute and faint that even trained gemologists may need several minutes to find them, often located near the edges or pavilion where they are least visible. In contrast, VVS2 inclusions—while still extremely small—may be slightly easier to detect under magnification and are more likely to be located closer to the center or table of the diamond, where they could be marginally more noticeable under inspection.
Both VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds maintain an incredibly high standard of clarity, and their inclusions do not affect the diamond’s brilliance or light performance. The distinction is subtle and largely technical, meant for grading precision rather than visual difference. While VVS1 is considered one step closer to flawless and may carry a small premium, both grades fall into the elite tier of clarity and are virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye.
Important Note: The difference between VVS1 and VVS2 is so subtle that even professional gemologists sometimes disagree on how to grade the same diamond. Since the inclusions in both grades are nearly microscopic, determining whether a diamond falls into VVS1 or VVS2 can come down to expert judgment, viewing angles, and lighting conditions. This is why two diamonds with nearly identical characteristics may receive slightly different clarity grades from different labs—or even from the same lab at different times.
Shop VVS Diamonds
Estate Diamond Jewelry offers a beautiful collection of VVS clarity diamond rings, each carefully curated for exceptional quality and timeless elegance. In addition to our ready-to-ship rings, we also have a stunning selection of loose VVS diamonds available upon request—perfect for those who want to create a custom piece. Whether you’re searching for a classic solitaire or a vintage-inspired treasure, our VVS diamonds deliver unmatched brilliance and clarity.
Insider Tips for Buying the Best VVS Diamond
We asked Afshin Shaddaie, a world expert in diamonds and fine jewelry, for his top insider tips when shopping for a VVS clarity diamond. With decades of experience helping clients find the perfect stones, Afshin emphasized that buying a VVS diamond is as much about smart decision-making as it is about clarity. Here are his key recommendations:
- Don’t Overpay for Invisible Perfection: VVS diamonds look identical to the naked eye compared to VS1 or even some VS2 diamonds. Only choose VVS if you’re prioritizing rarity, resale value, or peace of mind.
- Always Request Certification: Make sure the diamond comes with a grading report from a reputable lab like GIA. This is your only guarantee that the stone is truly VVS and not overgraded.
- Compare VVS1 vs. VVS2 Side by Side: If you’re choosing between the two, look at both under magnification. You might find the VVS2 to be just as clean—and more affordable.
- Don’t Sacrifice Cut Quality: Clarity is important, but brilliance is driven by the cut. A poorly cut VVS diamond will look dull next to a well-cut VS diamond.
- Focus on Eye-Clean First: If your goal is a clean-looking diamond, remember that even lower clarity grades can appear flawless to the eye if the inclusions are well-placed.
- Ask About Inclusions’ Location: Inclusions under the table are more noticeable than those near the edges. Even a VVS2 with an edge inclusion may look cleaner than a VVS1 with a centered one.
- Size Magnifies Everything: In larger diamonds, inclusions become easier to spot. That’s when VVS clarity becomes more relevant and potentially worth the premium.
VVS Clarity vs VS Clarity
VVS and VS clarity diamonds differ mainly in the number, size, and placement of inclusions visible under 10x magnification. In a VVS1 diamond, you might find a single pinpoint or a faint internal graining line near the pavilion that’s nearly impossible to locate without rotating the diamond in ideal lighting. In a VVS2, that inclusion might be slightly larger or closer to the table, but still extremely difficult to detect. By contrast, a VS1 diamond could have a tiny feather (a small internal crack) or a crystal (a mineral trapped inside the diamond) that is visible to a trained grader after a short inspection. In VS2 diamonds, inclusions are more numerous or more centrally located, such as a small cloud under the table or a pair of pinpoint inclusions that form a barely visible cluster.
Despite these technical distinctions, all of these inclusions are still considered minor and do not typically affect the diamond’s durability or appearance to the naked eye. However, when viewed under magnification, a gemologist can distinguish a VVS diamond by how clean and undisturbed the internal structure appears compared to a VS diamond, which may have slightly more noticeable patterns or inclusions. These differences are especially relevant in larger diamonds (2.00 carats and above), where inclusions become easier to spot and can have a more noticeable impact on clarity grading.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is the VVS Diamond a Good Idea for an Engagement Ring?
Yes, a VVS diamond can be an excellent choice for an engagement ring—especially if you’re prioritizing purity, rarity, and long-term value. Its exceptional clarity ensures a clean, brilliant look that reflects light beautifully, and its near-flawless status can add a sense of luxury and prestige. That said, it’s important to balance clarity with other factors like cut, color, and carat. In many cases, a slightly lower clarity grade (like VS1 or VS2) can still look flawless to the naked eye while allowing you to invest more in size or color.
Ultimately, a VVS diamond is ideal for someone who values perfection and wants a stone that’s as close to flawless as possible without going all the way to the top of the grading scale.
2. Are VVS Diamonds Considered Flawless?
VVS diamonds are extremely close to flawless, but they are not considered truly flawless by gemological standards. While their inclusions are so small that they’re nearly impossible to detect even under 10x magnification, they still exist—usually in the form of tiny pinpoints or faint internal lines. A truly flawless (FL) diamond has no internal or external imperfections visible under magnification. That said, to the naked eye, VVS diamonds appear virtually identical to flawless diamonds, making them a popular choice for buyers who want exceptional clarity without paying the significantly higher price of a flawless grade.
3. What Color Grades Compliment a VVS Clarity Diamond?
When buying a VVS clarity diamond, it’s best to pair it with a higher color grade to match the diamond’s visual purity. Since VVS diamonds have virtually no visible inclusions, any hint of color becomes more noticeable—especially in larger stones. Experts typically recommend choosing a color grade between D and H to fully showcase the clarity and brilliance of the diamond. While lower color grades like I or J can still look beautiful (especially in yellow or rose gold settings), the contrast between perfect clarity and visible warmth may not appeal to buyers seeking an ultra-clean appearance.
4. How Is a VVS Diamond Graded?
A VVS diamond is graded by expert gemologists using 10x magnification under strict laboratory conditions. The grading focuses on identifying and evaluating the number, size, position, and visibility of internal inclusions and external blemishes. For a diamond to qualify as VVS—Very, Very Slightly Included—its inclusions must be extremely difficult to see even under magnification and should not affect the stone’s brilliance or beauty. VVS clarity is divided into two subgrades: VVS1 (cleaner) and VVS2 (with slightly more visible inclusions under magnification). The grading is typically performed by reputable labs like GIA, ensuring accuracy and consistency across stones.
Talk to a Diamond Expert
If you’re considering a VVS diamond, speaking with an expert can make all the difference. Our team can help you compare stones, understand subtle clarity differences, and ensure you’re getting the best possible price for your budget. Whether you’re buying for an engagement ring, investment, or collection, expert guidance ensures you avoid costly mistakes and get exactly what you’re looking for.
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