VS2 vs VVS2 Diamonds

The enduring fascination and timeless allure of diamonds have enraptured humanity for centuries. Diamonds are renowned for their exceptional beauty, largely derived from their clarity and cut.

The clarity grade of a diamond involves evaluating the presence or absence of internal and external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes, respectively. Experts are necessary to complete this extremely complex area of diamond grading.

Optimizing your engagement ring budget involves striking a balance between the essential aspects of the 4C's of diamonds and finding areas where compromise is possible. Enhancing your diamond's carat or cut might necessitate a trade-off with some clarity - but for novices, navigating through the various clarity grades can be quite daunting.

As we discuss VS2 vs VVS2 clarity, we'll refer to the Gemological Institute of America's clarity scale, which divides diamonds (natural or lab) into 11 grades, from Flawless (IF) to Imperfect. The majority of diamonds fall somewhere between Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS), and Slightly Included (SI).

Technically, the distinction between VS2 and VVS2 diamonds spans only two clarity levels. VVS2 stands just two steps away from IF, the most extraordinary grade of diamond clarity, which constitutes less than 1% of all high-quality diamonds worldwide. And between VVS2 and VS2 stands only the VS1 grade.

What would be the best choice for you? What you really need for your diamond - and what you really want - will determine how much you will pay and what you’re willing to compromise on.

In order to explain the difference between VS2 and VVS2, we will examine how clarity and brilliance interact. We'll also look at the differences between VVS2 and VS2 to determine if upgrading is worth the cost for you.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond clarity on a scale ranging from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). In order to grade a diamond's clarity, flaws present within the stone are evaluated according to their size, type, location, and quantity.

Flawless diamonds are extremely rare and do not exhibit any visible inclusions or blemishes under a 10x magnification. In contrast, Included diamonds are characterized by prominent flaws that may compromise their durability and appearance.

When evaluating diamonds online or in person, light performance imaging can provide valuable information that visual inspection cannot provide. Using diagnostic tools such as ASET, Ideal Scope, and Hearts and Arrows viewer, we can detect light leakage, optical symmetry faults, and contrast issues. Because, no matter the clarity grade, only a well cut diamond will provide the brilliance and fire that makes a diamond beautiful.

In high-definition video, performance elements such as scintillation and fire are dynamically viewed. You can also inspect any clarity features with magnified HD video, giving you that extra peace of mind. Using diamond images along with a laboratory report, you can determine the quality and beauty of a diamond comprehensively.

If you would like to learn more, we have extensive education pages covering diamond clarity and the clarity grading process which can give you a detailed view of this important aspect of diamonds.

With VS2, you get a diamond that is second in the ‘Very Slightly Included’ category and usually has no eye-visible inclusions. This grade is typically eye-clean and it may be difficult to see anything in a VS2 even under 10X magnification.

When it comes to diamond clarity, the question that may come to mind is why don't I just buy the top diamond grades? It is a decision that most buyers have to make based on their budget. There is a significant premium associated with elite clarity grades of natural diamonds as a result of their rarity.

Diamonds with the VS2 clarity grade may appear identical to flawless diamonds to the naked eye, but they often cost thousands less.

Diamonds of higher quality are seen as more valuable because of their rarity, but some consumers prefer diamonds that sparkle beautifully at a price they can afford. The VS2 clarity grade is an excellent choice for all-around clarity, affordability and beauty.

This decision is entirely yours - and we are here to assist you if you need it.

A VVS diamond is one that is very, very slightly included in the diamond classification system. VVS grades are subdivided into two subcategories; VVS1 and VVS2.

A VVS2 is the lower tier of the VVS Diamond category, but place a VVS1 diamond next to a VVS2 diamond and to the naked eye it would be impossible to say which was the higher clarity diamond. In both cases, there would be no visible inclusions.

The GIA, which developed the grading scale used by most laboratories in the world, defines VVS2 diamonds as having inclusions that are difficult for a skilled grader to observe under 10x magnification. Diamonds with these inclusions can only be detected under a microscope by an expert, so they are guaranteed eye-clean.

Salespeople sometimes push customers to choose diamonds with VVS2 or higher grades, saying diamonds with VVS2 or lower grades may contain inclusions that affect the diamond's performance or durability.

Our decades in the diamond industry have never seen a VVS diamond with any transparency or clarity-based durability issues. Is a VVS2 diamond beautiful by default? No, there is no such thing as a diamond that is not subject to scrutiny for color, and especially for cut quality, regardless of clarity.

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 the ability to perform scientifically rigorous light performance cut grading, along with the consistent grading of color and clarity that they are known for. And AGS Ideal light performance addendum report is now available through GIA for diamonds that qualify.

Learn more about diamond clarity grading here.

The ideal scenario would be that we'd all wear ‘IF’ (internally flawless) or ‘FL’ (flawless) grades. While these are the most perfect diamonds available in terms of clarity, their price also reflects their rarity, making them somewhat out of reach for the average diamond buyer.

Representing less than 1% of the world’s diamonds, VVS2 clarity diamonds are a rare sight to behold. Visually, VVS2 diamonds are microscopically clean and are only slightly less rare than the grades IF and FL. Price is a result of their scarcity - they are rare, remarkable diamonds.

To put it simply, it's completely up to personal preference and ultimately budget. In choosing a diamond, several factors should be considered: budget, beauty, and taste, to name a few.

The appearance of diamond inclusions varies based on the shape, so it is important to keep that in mind. Step cuts, such as Emerald or Asscher, have the potential to make inclusions more visible, while brilliant cuts conceal inclusions better due to more rapid scintillation.

Diamond rarity isn't important to everyone; what matters is that the diamond is beautiful within their budget. There are diamonds in the VS clarity range and even those in the SI clarity range that are stunning and represent excellent value.

Some shoppers place great emphasis on owning something exceptional that meets the highest purity standards, and we’re all for that. Diamonds with VS2 and VVS2 are both worth considering, and we've explored a few more factors below.

Compared to natural FL or IF diamonds, VS2 and VVS2 diamonds can be significantly less expensive. In addition, there can be a significant price difference between VS and VVS grades.

Color, cut, clarity, and carat all contribute to a diamond's price. Even VVS diamond prices can be low if the diamond has a poor cut, is small, or has a low color grade.

Although this is true, VVS diamonds of good color and good size are extremely valuable, as can be seen on any VVS diamond chart or price guide.

There can be a 10% to 30% difference in price between a VVS2 diamond of the same cut, color, and carat and a comparable VS2 diamond of the same grading. In actuality, the price difference could be much higher if the diamonds are of different characteristics or market conditions change. Nevertheless, this is a rough estimate.

Carat weight has an obvious effect on the price difference too. As natural diamonds get bigger in size the price differential between VS2 and VVS2 widens.

There is usually not much difference between VS2 and VVS2 diamonds in terms of appearance, especially when the diamond is set in jewelry like a ring and viewed under normal lighting.

A diamond with no problematic inclusions and that is 'eye-clean' is the best way to balance beauty and budget.

A natural VVS2 diamond goes beyond mere visual clarity; it's both immaculate to the naked eye and highly desired for collectors. Its exceptional rarity significantly boosts its value. When a high color grade and an excellent cut come together, a diamond qualifies as a 'collector's quality’ gem. Clearly, when considering this level of purity, your investment encompasses more than just aesthetics – it includes rarity, a quality that extends beyond what's perceptible with special equipment and tools.

While it's possible to find visually clean and beautiful diamonds within the VS clarity grade or lower, provided advanced imaging is available for examination, the rarity aspect of VVS diamonds remains non-negotiable for some.

VVS2 diamonds usually have a few imperfections that are very small such as pinpoints. There are usually more numerous inclusions (or slightly larger ones) in VS2 diamonds, including very small crystals, clouds, and other features.

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.

Even so, if you're looking for a diamond of collector's quality and are a connoisseur of finer things, then a VVS2 or even a VVS1 might be the best choice for you.

Natural diamonds with a VVS grade are towards the top of the scale when it comes to quality and clarity, so they are rare and expensive as a result. However, diamond shoppers today have another more affordable alternative; laboratory-grown diamonds. These are real diamonds, possessing essentially the same chemical, physical, and optical properties as naturally occurring diamonds.

In recent years, lab-grown diamonds have gained popularity among shoppers due to their combination of quality, size, and affordability. Since these diamonds are manufactured in larger quantities, their price isn't determined by rarity, resulting in wider availability of diamonds with lower prices and high clarity and color grades.

The need to compromise on superior clarity, cut quality, or color grades for a lab-grown diamond is now unnecessary. Whether one chooses natural or lab-created diamonds, the quality of the cut should always remain uncompromised.

Any diamond purchase you make, whether lab-grown or natural, should be accompanied by a gem laboratory report such as GIA or IGI.

A natural diamond is the best choice if you want an earth-mined gem that will maintain value over the years.

VVS2 clarity diamonds are in the top tier of the diamond clarity scale and are higher than the average clarity grade for an engagement ring in the USA. When combined with an excellent cut and good color, VVS2 diamonds are truly spectacular. VS2 diamonds make a wonderful choice if you enjoy brilliant cuts. In fact, VS2 diamonds are among the most popular diamond clarity grades, so if you find one you like, don't hesitate to pick it up!

A step below VVS2 and a step above VS2 is also a good choice - VS1 diamonds offers great quality at a prices less than VVS2,and is a great choice for high quality engagement rings.

When all other factors are equal, a VS2 diamond will cost considerably less than a VVS2. Nonetheless, you should be aware that a diamond's price is affected by color, cut, and diamond weight.

At Whiteflash, we only offer diamonds we believe will captivate you with every glance. Outstanding cut quality, with full brilliance and fire, colorless or near-colorless, VVS or VS we have a beautiful diamond for your special occasion.

Our mission is to empower you with the knowledge to determine the absolute ideal diamond for YOU.

For some, the allure of perfection holds a special charm, and top tier clarity grades are their fancy. The assurance of possessing a nearly flawless gem is a very safe bet and a good strategy. But VS and SI diamonds also hold remarkable value and are the best choice for a great many shoppers, their evaluation requires a little bit more attention.

When it comes to maximizing carat size, cut, and clarity, VVS Lab diamonds may be the right choice some. There is little need to compromise on any of the 4C's in lab diamonds.

Most astute diamond shoppers will shop online to find the best value since VVS2 natural diamonds carry a premium and VS diamonds require more careful scrutiny. A reputable vendor should deliver absolute transparency and top quality information, no matter what size or quality diamond you are considering.

The Whiteflash diamond search tool makes finding the right diamond easy, and the selection of diamonds includes diamonds with VS and VVS clarity. Additionally, you can search our A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series for diamonds with the absolute highest pedigree.

Offering some of the finest diamonds in the world, this collection combines the internationally acclaimed A CUT ABOVE® super ideal cut with the most elite quality color and clarity grades (DEF and FL-VVS).

When purchasing loose diamonds, you do more than just shop for a commodity. Multiple Factors must be considered simultaneously.

To get the most value out of your purchase, you should choose a jeweler who does all things well, and some things exceptionally well. If you are considering Whiteflash for your diamond purchase we want you to do so with full confidence.