VS vs. SI Diamonds: Exploring the Differences in Clarity and Value
By
Tiffany Moore , Monday, December 16, 2024
Even with the passage of time, the allure of diamonds remains unwavering, enticing generations with their timeless beauty. A gem's clarity and cut, as well as its color and carat, all play pivotal roles in its splendor. Strategizing your engagement ring budget involves achieving a balance among the
4Cs of diamonds, possibly compromising in some areas.
For example, enhancing your diamond's carat or cut might necessitate a trade-off with some clarity. We understand for first time buyers, navigating through the various clarity grades can be quite daunting due to their complexity.
Clarity is determined by the presence or absence of internal and external flaws, such as inclusions and blemishes. Expertise is necessary to complete this extremely complex area of diamond grading.
In our exploration of VS (Very Slightly Included) vs SI (Slightly Included) diamonds, we turn to the
Gemological Institute of America's (GIA) clarity scale, categorizing diamonds into 11 grades, ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included. The majority of diamonds fall within the spectrum of Very, Very Slightly Included to Slightly Included.
The distinction between VS and SI diamonds spans multiple clarity levels - they sit pretty comfortably in the middle of the grading system. In the US, engagement rings with VS1 or VS2 clarity grades are the most common.
Where should you go from here? It is important to take into consideration both the extent of your financial commitment as well as the potential for compromises you are willing to make in order to obtain the diamond you desire.
In order to explain the difference between VS vs SI, we must examine how clarity and brilliance interact - we'll also look deeper at the differences between the two.
Understanding Diamond Clarity: How to Evaluate It
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond clarity on a scale ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). Flaws present within a diamond are evaluated according to their size, type, location, and quantity when grading clarity.
Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and do not exhibit any visible inclusions or blemishes, even under a 10x magnification. On the other hand,
Included diamonds can have prominent flaws that can compromise their durability and appearance.
If you are evaluating diamonds online or in person, cut quality is also extremely important., Light performance imaging can provide valuable information about diamonds that cannot be obtained through visual inspection alone. Light leakage, optical symmetry faults, and contrast issues can be detected with diagnostic tools such as ASET, Ideal Scope, and Hearts and Arrows viewer.
A high-definition video shows performance details such as scintillation and fire dynamically. With magnified HD video, you can inspect any clarity features on loose diamonds for that extra peace of mind. The quality and beauty of a diamond can be determined comprehensively with these
exceptional diamond images and a laboratory report.
For a deeper dive, we offer comprehensive educational resources that
explain diamond clarity and grading in greater detail. We have extensive education pages covering diamond clarity and the clarity grading process so that you can get a better understanding of this crucial aspect of diamonds.
VS Clarity Diamonds
Simulated Representation of the Diamond Clarity Scale
VS is taken from the clarity scale created by the GIA and stands for ‘Very Slightly Included’; it’s split into two grades,
VS1 and
VS2. Below you can see how the
GIA and AGS grading systems correlate. In each case, these are leading gem laboratories with exemplary reputations for reliable and consistent grading. *Note: AGS light performance technology was recently acquired by GIA.
Diamond Clarity Grading Scale
Diamonds are graded for clarity by assessing the type, size, number, relief and location of inclusions and blemishes. Multiple expert graders must agree about the grade of a diamond before the grade is finalized, since this process can be susceptible to some subjectivity. You can read an in-depth explanation of the grading process in
our diamond clarity grading article.
The GIA defines the VS category as follows: ‘
Inclusions are minor and range from difficult to somewhat easy for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification’. But what does this mean for you?
A VS2 diamond is the lower tier of the VS grade, and this is significant. A VS2 might barely make the grade, thus resting on the cusp between an SI1 and a VS2. The spectrum for clarity possibilities is somewhat broad within the VS grade; while a VS1 is almost always going to be eye-clean with excellent transparency, with a VS2 this is not guaranteed.
Eye clean crystal inclusion
While elite clarity grades such as IF and VVS come with a premium due to their scarcity, VS diamonds offer an exquisite alternative that blends both captivating brilliance and accessibility.
Do VS diamonds by default have a beautiful appearance? Unfortunately not. Clarity is only one of the quality factors that affect diamond beauty.There is color and the all important cut quality to consider as well.
The ideal scenario would be that we'd all wear
‘IF’ (internally flawless) or
‘FL’ (flawless) grades. While these are the most perfect diamonds, their price also reflects their rarity, making them somewhat beyond the reach of the average diamond buyer. Diamonds like these are rare and expensive, and yet may not be any more beautiful than a VS or even an Si quality.
VS DIAMONDS
1.088 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$8,650
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1.098 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$8,675
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0.906 H VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$4,300
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1.04 H VS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$5,750
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SI Clarity Diamonds
Diamond Clarity Grading Scale
SI diamonds are classified as "Slightly Included" representing a broader range of clarity within this category. Depending on the size of the stone these diamonds may contain inclusions that are visible to the naked eye, though a number of factors will determine this.
It is ultimately the amount and type of inclusions that determine the clarity grade of a diamond. If the inclusions and flaws are more noticeable, an expert will likely grade a diamond as Slightly Included. A diamond can be
SI1 or
SI2 depending on how visible the flaws are.
The location of flaws will often play a key role in determining whether a diamond is eye-clean as well.
SI clarity diamonds present a fascinating spectrum, showcasing the various ways inclusions can manifest. From barely perceptible specks to more noticeable features, SI diamonds offer a unique opportunity to explore the intersection of clarity and visual appeal.
By opting for SI diamonds, buyers can allocate their budget more flexibly across other diamond attributes such as size, cut quality, and carat weight. This flexibility allows for customization, ensuring that your diamond investment aligns closely with your preferences and financial considerations.
Si1 diamonds are often eye-clean. That’s not to say you cannot also get
eye clean SI2 diamonds. At Whiteflash we pride ourselves on our thorough quality checks to only bring you the best of the best. It’s also why we provide high quality videos and images alongside certifications, as they go hand in hand.
For our in-house diamonds, they can be made available at any time for consultations and inspections - so you can see the nature of the inclusions yourself.
In order to ensure the quality of our diamonds, we only sell those with reports from highly respected institutions. As a result of the acquisition by GIA of AGSL, GIA has gained a reputation for scientifically rigorous light performance cut grading, along with a consistent grading of color and clarity. Learn more
about diamond clarity grading here.
SI DIAMONDS
1.053 H SI1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$4,995
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1.030 H SI1 Round Ideal
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$4,975
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1.10 H SI1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$5,750
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0.95 H SI1 Round Ideal
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$4,775
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VS vs SI: The Breakdown
There are a number of things to consider when choosing a diamond beyond quality, such as your budget, taste and the intended style or setting for the jewelry piece. Ultimately, it comes down to personal preference and circumstances.
It is important to keep in mind that
diamond inclusions vary depending on the cut, too. Brilliant cuts, such as round, conceal inclusions better than step cuts, such as
Emerald or
Asscher.
We are big believers in informed diamond shopping. Diamond rarity does not matter to everyone; what matters is that the diamond is stunning within their budget. It is entirely possible to find stunning diamonds in both VS and SI clarity range - they are both worth considering. Below are a few more factors to consider.
Price:
Compared to FL or IF diamonds, VS diamonds are significantly less expensive and attainable. In addition, there is a price difference between VS and SI clarity grades too.
It is important to note that a diamond's price is determined by its color, cut, clarity, and carat. In some cases, even VVS diamonds can be very inexpensive because of their poor cut, size, or color grades.
The price of a VS diamond can vary by 20% to 50% compared to a comparable SI diamond of the same grading. Even though this is a rough estimate, it is a good place to start. Depending on the diamond characteristics and market conditions, the price difference could be much higher.
When assessing comparable VS and SI diamonds in practical settings such as ring settings and normal lighting conditions, the visual differences in clarity become less pronounced. Both types of diamonds will exhibit scintillation, fire, and brilliance that captivate the observer's eye when the 4Cs are balanced - with cut prioritized.
You should purchase a diamond with no problematic inclusions and that is 'eye-clean' in order to balance beauty and budget. Making informed decisions based on your preferences requires understanding the visual impact of these choices.
Rarity:
VS diamonds represent the ideal balance between quality and value, offering remarkable clarity without the premium price tag of higher-graded stones like VVS or Flawless.
If cut with precision, VS diamonds combine exceptional sparkle and visual appeal with an accessible price point, making them a thoughtful and enduring choice for those looking for quality and value.
In the SI clarity grade, it’s certainly possible to find eye-clean and beautiful diamonds, provided
advanced imaging is available for examination, but for some, the rarity aspect of higher clarity diamond grades remains compelling.
Inclusions:
The primary distinction between VS and SI diamonds lies in the visibility of inclusions. VS diamonds typically appear eye-clean, meaning their inclusions are very small and difficult to see without magnification.
On the other hand, SI diamonds might have easily visible inclusions under magnification and, in some instances, to the naked eye. Even so, SI diamonds can still be extremely brilliant and fiery, offering a stunning aesthetic when balanced across all four of the C’s.
Should a diamond possess both
eye-clean clarity and an exceptionally masterful cut it has the potential to become a truly breathtaking gem, all while remaining within a sensible price range.
Of course, we always recommend doing your due diligence and seeing for yourself! Utilize high quality videos and imagery, as well as the certification and light performance documents provided.
Even so, if you're looking for a diamond of collection quality and are a connoisseur of finer things, then a VVS might be the best choice for you.
Lab Grown VS Natural Diamonds
When it comes to quality and clarity, VS and SI natural diamonds are particularly balanced. There is, however, a more affordable alternative available today to diamond shoppers -
laboratory-grown diamonds.
Lab diamonds are authentic, possessing essentially the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as natural mined diamonds.
In recent years,
lab-grown diamonds have gained popularity among shoppers due to their combination of size, quality, and affordability. Since these diamonds are produced in larger quantities, their value isn't determined by their rarity, resulting in a wider availability of diamonds of high clarity and color.
In the event that you don't have your heart set on a natural diamond and want the maximum size, choice of shape, cut, and clarity, you might want to consider lab diamonds. With lab diamonds, there is little need to compromise on any of the 4Cs, and the savings can be used for other desires, such as designer engagement rings or larger carat sizes.
When it comes to diamonds that have been stored over time, natural diamonds are the best. Regardless of what kind of diamond you choose, never compromise on its cut quality.
Diamond purchases should always be accompanied by a gem laboratory report from GIA or IGI, regardless of whether the diamond is lab-grown or natural.
VS vs SI: A Summary
The decision between VS and SI diamonds revolves around your unique preferences and financial considerations. Both clarity grades offer distinct advantages, catering to the majority of the market.
Whether you opt for the perfect balance of VS diamonds or the captivating affordability of SI diamonds, your choice should be in line with your personal taste and fulfill your desire for a beautiful diamond.
The average US engagement ring contains a 1 carat diamond with VS clarity. When combined with an excellent cut and good color, VS diamonds can be truly spectacular. SI diamonds can also be beautiful, but their evaluation requires a more individualized approach.
Assuming all other factors are equal, a SI diamond will cost less than a VS diamond. However, color, cut, and diamond weight also affect the diamond's price.
We believe that a confident decision is the result of an informed decision. Because of this, we place a high priority on transparency and education throughout the diamond shopping process.
Our resources, from detailed diamond information to expert guidance, gives you all the information you need to make choices aligned with your preferences and values.
There is something special about the allure of perfection for some people. There are plenty of people who feel the same way about owning a nearly flawless gem. Accordingly, you can search our
A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series of diamonds with the highest pedigree.
Offering some of the finest diamonds in the world, this collection combines the internationally acclaimed
A CUT ABOVE® super ideal cut quality with the highest quality color and clarity grades (DEF and FL-VVS).
Finding the Ideal Diamond for You at Whiteflash
At Whiteflash, we only offer
diamonds we believe will captivate you with every glance.
In order to find the best value, the majority of discerning diamond buyers shop online since natural diamonds can carry a premium and some lower clarity diamonds require comprehensive grading and imagery before being considered. A reputable vendor will provide complete transparency and high-quality information.
If you are considering Whiteflash for your diamond purchases, we hope you will do so with confidence. As a trusted destination for those seeking the perfect diamond, we are committed to excellence and offer an unparalleled experience.