VVS Diamonds Clarity: A Guide to Pristine Gems

by | Jun 28, 2024

VVS Diamonds Clarity stands as a hallmark of near-perfect gemstone purity, captivating jewel enthusiasts. In this article, we delve into the world of Very Very Slightly Included (VVS) diamonds, shedding light on what makes this clarity grade so special.

You will embark on a journey through the nuances of VVS diamonds, from understanding the subtle differences between VVS1 and VVS2 grades to appreciating their rarity and visual characteristics.

We’ll also navigate the considerations for choosing a VVS diamond, their pricing, and the best settings to showcase their exquisite beauty.

By the end of this guide, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge to discern and appreciate the remarkable quality of VVS diamonds, making informed decisions for buying.

What are VVS Diamonds?

Diving into the heart of what VVS clarity truly means, we uncover a world where imperfections are nearly invisible, a testament to nature’s meticulous craftsmanship.

VVS, standing for Very Very Slightly Included, represents diamonds that, to the unaided eye, appear as perfect as the untouched snow.

Yet, under the scrutiny of a gemologist’s loupe, these stones reveal minute inclusions, so small and inconspicuous that they whisper the stories of their deep-earth origins.

VVS diamonds are divided into two subgrades: VVS1 and VVS2. The distinction lies in the position, size, and number of these tiny blemishes.

VVS1 diamonds hold inclusions that are exceedingly difficult to detect even under 10x magnification, typically positioned towards the pavilion, or the diamond’s base.

VVS2 gems, while still embodying exceptional clarity, have inclusions slightly more apparent or located closer to the table, the diamond’s top facet.

Embarking on a journey with a VVS diamond is akin to traversing a landscape barely touched by time.

It’s choosing a path of extraordinary clarity and rarity, ensuring that the sparkle and brilliance of your gem shine brightly, mirroring the stars that light up the night sky.

Whether for a special occasion or as a beacon of nature’s perfection, understanding VVS clarity is the first step towards appreciating these stunning gifts from the earth.

The Significance of VVS Clarity Within the Grading Scale

Stepping into the world of diamond clarity, VVS clarity emerges as a beacon of near-perfection on the grading scale, a testament to the rare beauty that lies just beneath the surface of the earth.

VVS, standing for Very Very Slightly Included, signifies diamonds that are as close to flawless as nature allows, with only the smallest inclusions hidden within their depths.

Nestled just below the Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) grades, VVS diamonds represent the pinnacle of diamond clarity for stones that exhibit minute characteristics. These inclusions are so subtle that even skilled gemologists find them challenging to identify under 10x magnification.

This high placement on the clarity scale not only speaks to the exceptional quality of VVS diamonds but also to their desirability among connoisseurs and collectors alike.

The rarity of VVS diamonds adds to their allure, making them prized possessions for those lucky enough to own them. Their exceptional clarity ensures that they sparkle with an unbridled brilliance, capturing the light in ways that draw the eye and enchant the beholder.

In the grand tapestry of diamond grading, VVS clarity stands as a mark of distinction, offering both beauty and value to those who seek the extraordinary.

Whether set in a piece of fine jewelry or cherished as part of a collection, diamonds with VVS clarity are symbols of purity and perfection, reflecting the awe-inspiring wonders of the natural world.

The Rarity of VVS Diamonds

Stepping into the world of VVS diamonds is like discovering a hidden treasure trove, rare and magnificent. VVS diamonds, known for their Very Very Slightly Included clarity, represent a pinnacle of near-perfection seldom found in nature.

Their scarcity isn’t just a matter of chance; it’s a reflection of the extraordinary conditions required to form a diamond so flawless that only microscopic blemishes exist, hidden from the naked eye.

In the vast expanse of the diamond market, VVS diamonds shine as beacons of excellence. Their rarity elevates their status, making them sought-after gems for those who desire nothing but the utmost in clarity.

However, this level of perfection comes at a premium, influenced by the limited availability that drives the demand higher. Like a rare bloom that flowers in the wilderness, VVS diamonds are treasures that not everyone will find on their journey.

This scarcity is not uniform across all cuts and sizes, making the hunt for the perfect VVS diamond a personalized quest. Larger VVS diamonds are even more scarce, as the likelihood of inclusions decreases with increased size, making these larger stones true rarities.

Navigating the market for VVS diamonds requires patience and perseverance. Whether for an engagement ring that symbolizes eternal love or a personal investment in beauty, the pursuit of a VVS diamond is a testament to the seeker’s appreciation for nature’s artistry.

In this landscape of luminous beauty, VVS diamonds stand as symbols of purity and rarity, cherished by those who hold them and admired by all who behold their splendor.

VVS1 vs VVS2 What’s the Difference?

When we explore the realms of VVS clarity in diamonds, we find ourselves amidst a landscape of near perfection, where the differences between VVS1 and VVS2 are as subtle as the gentle shifts in the breeze.

Both these classifications belong to the Very Very Slightly Included category, standing as a testament to their extraordinary clarity, yet they hold slight distinctions that set them apart.

  • What is VVS Diamonds Clarity?

Diamonds graded as VVS1 contain minuscule inclusions that are virtually impossible to detect by the naked eye, and even under 10x magnification, these inclusions are incredibly challenging to spot.

They are often located on the pavilion or the lower half of the diamond, making them even less visible through the table (the top facet of the diamond). This placement contributes to the VVS1 grade’s esteemed position as the higher tier within the VVS category.

  • What is VVS2 Clarity?

Moving a step into the VVS2 territory, the inclusions remain minute and barely noticeable to the untrained eye under magnification, but they are typically more detectable than those in VVS1 diamonds.

These inclusions might be found closer to the table or in positions where they are slightly easier to identify under a jeweler’s loupe, yet they hardly impact the diamond’s overall brilliance and beauty.

Choosing between VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds is akin to selecting between two exquisite pieces of art, each with its own nuanced beauty.

Both offer an incredible level of clarity that ensures the diamond’s brilliance is uncompromised, with the primary differences lying in the inclusions’ size, number, and placement.

Whether your heart leans towards the slightly higher purity of VVS1 or the excellent value and beauty of VVS2, you are choosing a gem that resonates with the whispers of the earth’s deepest secrets, crafted into a form that dances with light.

VVS1 vs VVS2 Visual Comparison

Displayed here are two diamonds, both magnified not at the standard 10x, but at an impressive 20x. On the left, you see a VVS1 diamond, and on the right, a VVS2 diamond. Despite the enhanced magnification, distinguishing between them purely based on clarity is remarkably challenging:

VVS1 vs VVS2 Visual Comparison

For those interested in a closer comparison with advanced technology, we have links to a 360-view of a VVS1 diamond and a similar VVS2 clarity diamond, both viewed at an astonishing 40x magnification thanks to the groundbreaking Diamond Display Technology™. This technology is so advanced it’s trademarked, and we delve into it more deeply in our thorough review of James Allen.

In fact, even individuals with extensive experience often need magnification tools set between 20X-30X to identify the inclusions, attesting to their near-impeccable clarity.

The distinction, however, lies in the placement of the inclusions. VVS1 diamond inclusions are typically found on the underside and become apparent only under magnification. On the other hand, inclusions in VVS2 diamonds are more likely to be seen from the top view, often located in the upper half of the diamond, when observed under magnification.

VVS Clarity Position on Clarity Scale

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has established a globally recognized clarity grading system that encompasses 11 distinct grades, organized into six categories:

  • FL (Flawless): These diamonds are the epitome of perfection, showing no inclusions or blemishes when observed under 10x magnification.
  • IF (Internally Flawless): These gems have no internal flaws, though slight external blemishes might be detected under 10x magnification.
  • VVS1 and VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): Diamonds in this category have minute inclusions that are challenging to identify, even under 10x magnification.
  • VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included): These stones contain minor inclusions, invisible to the naked eye, that do not detract from their overall clarity.
  • SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included): Inclusions in these diamonds are noticeable under magnification but generally do not impact the diamond’s clear appearance significantly.
  • I1, I2, and I3 (Included): Diamonds in this group have inclusions visible to the naked eye, potentially affecting the stone’s overall look and durability.

With VVS positioned as the third tier on this scale, it might seem middle-ranked at first glance. However, considering there are seven grades below it and only two above, VVS diamonds occupy a high-ranking slot that underscores their exceptional clarity.

It’s worth noting that the distinction between Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) grades is so subtle that they are often mentioned together, emphasizing the minimal difference between these top-tier clarity grades.

Here’s a visual of the diamond clarity chart, offering a clearer picture of where each grade stands and highlighting the exceptional quality of VVS diamonds within this context.

diamond-clarity-grades

Choosing a VVS Diamond: What to Consider

Embarking on the quest to select a VVS diamond is akin to charting a course through a landscape rich in beauty and rarity.

These nearly flawless gems beckon with their understated elegance, but choosing the right one for you or a loved one involves more than just appreciating their clarity.

Here are key factors to consider, ensuring your journey leads to a treasure that resonates deeply with your values and desires.

  • Budget:

Your financial landscape plays a pivotal role in navigating the world of VVS diamonds. These gems, known for their very very slight inclusions, command a premium due to their rarity and exceptional clarity.

It’s essential to balance your desire for this near-perfection with the practicalities of your budget, finding a gem that aligns with both your dreams and your means.

  • Setting:

The setting you envision for your diamond is the stage upon which its beauty will be showcased. VVS diamonds, with their impressive clarity, are versatile performers that shine brightly in a myriad of settings, from the classic solitaire to more elaborate designs.

Consider how the diamond’s setting will interact with its clarity, enhancing its brilliance and ensuring that the gem’s subtle imperfections remain hidden from view.

  • Personal Preferences:

At the heart of your journey is your own unique taste and the personal story you wish to tell with your diamond. VVS diamonds offer a canvas of purity and radiance, but the final choice should reflect your individual style and the message you want your gem to convey.

Whether you’re drawn to the boldness of a larger stone or the subtlety of a specific cut, let your personal preferences guide you to the VVS diamond that speaks to your soul.

In selecting a VVS diamond, you’re choosing a companion for life’s journey, a symbol of enduring beauty and clarity.

Consider these factors carefully, and let them lead you to a diamond that not only captivates the eye but also captures the essence of your deepest aspirations and dreams.

VVS Diamonds in Jewelry Settings

Exploring the world of VVS diamonds in various jewelry settings is like watching the sunrise across different landscapes, each revealing its unique beauty.

With their exceptional clarity and brilliance, these diamonds shine brightly in any setting, offering unparalleled versatility.
Let’s delve into how VVS diamonds perform in different jewelry styles, highlighting their adaptability and timeless appeal.

  • Classic Solitaire:

The solitaire setting is a timeless choice that allows the VVS diamond to take center stage.
The simplicity of this setting emphasizes the diamond’s clarity and brilliance, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate understated elegance.
The VVS diamond’s near-flawless appearance is showcased beautifully, ensuring that all attention is drawn to its radiant sparkle.

Here’s an example of what it might look like👇

1.00 Carat – H Color – VVS1 Clarity – Excellent Cut Round Diamond
14K White Gold 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

Solitaire-Engagement-Ring-1.00-Carat-H-VVS1-Excellent-Cut-Round-DiamondImage Source: James Allen

  • Halo Setting:

In a halo setting, smaller diamonds encircle the VVS diamond, amplifying its brilliance and creating a dazzling display of light.
This setting adds extra sparkle and makes the center diamond appear larger. The VVS diamond’s clarity ensures that it stands out amid the surrounding stones, creating a stunning and eye-catching piece.

Take a look at this example below👇

1.00 Carat H Color – VVS1 Clarity – Excellent Cut Round Diamond
14K White Gold Kite Set Halo Engagement Ring

Halo Engagement Ring - 1.00 Carat H Color VVS1 Clarity Excellent Cut Round DiamondImage Source: James Allen

  • Three-Stone Setting:

The three-stone setting symbolizes the past, present, and future, making it a meaningful choice for engagement rings or anniversary pieces.
VVS diamonds in this setting are paired with two side stones of equal or smaller size, enhancing the overall brilliance and depth of the ring. The exceptional clarity of VVS diamonds ensures that each stone complements the others perfectly.

See the example provided below👇

1.00 Carat H Color – VVS1 Clarity – Excellent Cut Round Diamond
14K White Gold Three Stone Pear Shaped Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

Three Stone Pear Shaped Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring-jamesallen

Image Source: James Allen

  • Vintage and Antique Styles:

For those who love the charm of vintage and antique designs, VVS diamonds add a touch of timeless elegance. These settings often feature intricate details and filigree work that highlight the diamond’s beauty.

The clarity of VVS diamonds ensures that the stone’s brilliance is not overshadowed by the ornate setting, creating a harmonious blend of old-world charm and modern sparkle, here’s how the Vintage setting complements a VVS1 Clarity diamond:

1.00 Carat – H Color – VVS1 Clarity – Excellent Cut Round Diamond
14K White Gold Vintage Inspired Antique Frame Halo Engagement Ring

Vintage Inspired Antique Frame Halo Engagement Ring-jamesallenImage Source: James Allen

  • Pavé and Channel Settings:

In pavé and channel settings, smaller diamonds are set closely together, creating a continuous shimmer.
VVS diamonds in these settings are ideal for those who love maximum sparkle and a luxurious look.
The clarity of VVS diamonds ensures that the main stone and the accent diamonds all contribute to a cohesive, glittering display.

Observe its stunning appearance when worn on the finger:

1.00 Carat – H Color – VVS1 Clarity – Excellent Cut Round Diamond
14K White Gold Pavé Contour Engagement Ring

Gold Pavé Contour Engagement Ring-jamesallenImage Source: James Allen

Whether set in a classic solitaire, a sparkling halo, or a vintage-inspired design, VVS diamonds adapt effortlessly, showcasing their exceptional clarity and brilliance.
Their versatility allows them to enhance any jewelry style, making them a cherished choice for those who seek both beauty and elegance in their adornments.

VVS1 diamond price

Like any diamond, the price of a VVS diamond is influenced by factors such as cut quality, color, shape, and carat weight.

To give you an idea of how much a 1 carat VVS diamond costs, a search on Blue Nile for 1-carat, Ideal cut, H color, and VVS1 Clarity diamonds reveals 83 options, ranging from $4,270 to $9,720 as of this writing. Keep in mind, these prices are specific to 1-carat diamonds.

conducting a search on Blue Nile diamond

From this data, the average VVS diamond 1 carat price, based on our selected filters, is approximately $6,995.

It’s important to note that prices for diamonds of other shapes might be slightly lower. However, we’ve based our average on round diamonds, which are the most popular choice, preferred by 64% of young couples for engagement ring centerpieces.

 

Where to Buy VVS Clarity Diamonds?

When it comes to purchasing VVS clarity diamonds, finding a reputable vendor is essential to ensure authenticity, quality, and value.

Here are some trusted platforms and vendors where you can confidently buy VVS clarity diamonds:

1. Blue Nile:

Blue Nile Diamond Website

Blue Nile is a renowned online diamond retailer known for its extensive selection of high-quality diamonds. They offer a wide range of VVS clarity diamonds, complete with detailed grading reports from reputable institutions like GIA.
Blue Nile’s user-friendly website and excellent customer service make the buying process smooth and enjoyable.

2. James Allen:

James Allen Diamond Website

James Allen stands out for its innovative Diamond Display Technology™, which provides 360° HD images and 40x magnification of each diamond.
This feature allows you to inspect the VVS clarity diamonds closely before making a purchase.
With a vast selection and competitive pricing, James Allen is a top choice for discerning buyers.

3. Brilliant Earth:

Known for their commitment to ethical sourcing and environmentally friendly practices, Brilliant Earth offers a stunning collection of VVS clarity diamonds, their diamonds are carefully selected and come with detailed certifications, ensuring you get a high-quality, conflict-free stone.

4. Whiteflash:

Whiteflash is highly regarded for its super-ideal cut diamonds, ensuring maximum brilliance and sparkle, they offer a variety of VVS clarity diamonds, backed by comprehensive grading reports.
Whiteflash also provides excellent customer support to guide you through the buying process.

The important thing is that when purchasing VVS clarity diamonds, always verify the diamond’s certification to confirm its authenticity and quality.

Conclusion

Choosing VVS diamond clarity is like selecting the clearest, most pristine gem from nature’s treasure trove, these diamonds, with their exceptional clarity and near-flawlessness, offer a brilliance and beauty that few other grades can match.

They capture the light in a way that mesmerizes and enchants, making them a truly special choice for any significant piece of jewelry.

When considering VVS diamonds, it’s important to balance their allure with practical considerations.
Their rarity and quality come at a premium, so it’s essential to align your budget with your desire for near-perfection.

VVS diamonds are versatile, performing beautifully in various settings, from classic solitaires to intricate vintage designs, their exceptional clarity ensures they shine brightly, regardless of the setting.

For prospective buyers, the key is to find a reputable vendor to ensure the diamond’s authenticity and quality.
Trusted retailers like Blue Nile, James Allen, Brilliant Earth, and Whiteflash offer extensive selections and detailed certifications, providing peace of mind with your purchase.

In summary, VVS diamonds represent a harmonious blend of beauty, rarity, and enduring value, they are an investment in elegance, capturing the essence of what makes diamonds so timeless and cherished.

Whether you’re choosing a VVS diamond for an engagement ring, a special gift, or as a personal treasure, you’re selecting a gem that promises to bring joy and admiration for generations to come.

FAQs About E Color Diamonds

  • Is VVS diamond clarity good?

Yes, VVS diamond clarity is excellent.
VVS, which stands for Very Very Slightly Included, is one of the highest clarity grades available, indicating that the diamond has very few inclusions that are difficult to see even under 10x magnification.

This high level of clarity ensures that VVS diamonds have exceptional brilliance and sparkle, making them highly desirable for engagement rings and fine jewelry.

When considering diamond clarity, VVS diamonds offer a near-flawless appearance that is second only to Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) grades, providing an outstanding combination of beauty and value.

  • What does VVS mean in a diamond?

VVS in a diamond stands for Very Very Slightly Included.
This clarity grade indicates that the diamond has very small inclusions that are extremely difficult to see even under 10x magnification.

VVS diamonds are divided into two subgrades: VVS1 and VVS2.
VVS1 diamonds have inclusions that are even harder to detect than those in VVS2 diamonds.

This high level of clarity ensures that VVS diamonds are exceptionally brilliant and nearly flawless to the naked eye, making them a top choice for those seeking high-quality gemstones.

  • What is better VVS1 or vvs?

When comparing VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds, VVS1 is considered better in terms of clarity.
VVS1 stands for Very Very Slightly Included 1, meaning the inclusions in these diamonds are extremely difficult to detect even under 10x magnification, and are typically positioned in less noticeable areas.

On the other hand, VVS2, or Very Very Slightly Included 2, diamonds have inclusions that are slightly easier to see under magnification compared to VVS1.

Both VVS1 and VVS2 are excellent clarity grades, but VVS1 is superior due to its higher level of clarity, this makes VVS1 diamonds more desirable and often more valuable than VVS2 diamonds.

  • Is a VVS2 e color good?

Yes, a VVS2 E color diamond represents an excellent choice, combining exceptional clarity with near-perfect colorlessness. The E color grade places the diamond in the “Colorless” category, just one step below the highest color grade, D, ensuring the diamond appears virtually colorless to the naked eye.

VVS2, standing for Very Very Slightly Included 2, indicates that the diamond has minute inclusions that are challenging to detect even under 10x magnification by a skilled grader.

This combination of a high color grade with superior clarity makes a VVS2 E color diamond a highly desirable and valuable choice for fine jewelry, offering both stunning aesthetic appeal.

  • Why is VVS so expensive?

VVS diamonds are so expensive because of their exceptional clarity and rarity, the rarity of VVS diamonds significantly contributes to their high price.

Finding diamonds with such minimal inclusions is uncommon, and this scarcity drives up their value. Additionally, the meticulous process required to cut and polish these high-quality diamonds adds to their cost.

Author

  • Justin J. Adams - Specialist in the Radiance of Precious Gems

    Specialist in the Radiance of Precious Gems Sparkling with knowledge, with years of expertise in unlocking the secrets of these resplendent gemstones, I illuminate the path to unparalleled luxury. Luxuriating in the mystique of diamonds, my captivating journey has been adorned with countless triumphs and milestones. From carefully studying the earth's depths where these gems are forged amid cosmic whispers, to exploring the intricate artistry of cutting and polishing, my expertise extends across the entire spectrum of the diamond industry. My passion is to help others find their perfect diamond piece that will last them a lifetime.

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