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VS or VVS Diamonds: What's the Difference?

  • Writer: ICD
    ICD
  • Feb 25
  • 3 min read

When comparing VS vs VVS diamond clarity, understanding the difference can help you choose the perfect diamond. Both VS (Very Slightly Included) and VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) diamonds offer exceptional beauty, but what actually separates them? In this guide, we explain what VS diamond clarity means, what VVS diamonds are, and which option offers the best value for your jewellery.

I Cry Diamonds Blog VS Diamond Clarity What's the Difference


What Does VS Diamond Clarity Mean?

VS diamond clarity stands for Very Slightly Included. This grade indicates that a diamond contains minor internal inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification and typically invisible to the naked eye.

There are two grades within this category:

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  • VS1

  • VS2

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Both are considered high quality and are often described as eye-clean diamonds, meaning inclusions cannot be seen without magnification during normal wear.

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For most buyers, VS clarity offers an ideal balance of beauty and value.


VS1 vs VS2 – What’s the Difference?

The difference between VS1 vs VS2 lies in how visible the inclusions are under magnification:


VS1: Inclusions are very difficult to detect, even under 10x magnification.


VS2: Inclusions are slightly easier to locate under magnification but still not visible to the naked eye.


In everyday conditions, both look virtually identical.


What Does VVS Diamond Clarity Mean?


VVS diamond clarity stands for Very Very Slightly Included. These diamonds contain extremely tiny inclusions that are exceptionally difficult to detect, even for trained professionals using magnification.

There are two grades:

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  • VVS1

  • VVS2

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Both are considered high clarity diamonds and fall just below Internally Flawless on the clarity scale.


Is VVS Better Than VS?

Technically yes, VVS diamonds have fewer and smaller inclusions than VS diamonds. However, the improvement is typically microscopic. To the naked eye, both VS and VVS diamonds appear flawless in most cases.

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The choice often comes down to preference, budget, and how much importance you place on higher technical grading.


VS vs VVS Diamonds – Can You See the Difference?

When making a diamond clarity comparison, most people ask: What is the difference between VS and VVS diamonds in real life?

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The answer: usually none without magnification.

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Both grades:

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  • Appear eye-clean

  • Offer excellent brilliance

  • Perform beautifully in jewellery

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If inclusions cannot be seen without magnification, they do not affect appearance. This is why many experts say the visible difference between VS and VVS is minimal.

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So, which diamond clarity is better?

From a grading standpoint, VVS is higher.From a value standpoint, VS is often more practical.


Do VS or VVS Diamonds Sparkle More?


Many buyers wonder whether clarity impacts diamond sparkle.

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The truth is, sparkle (brilliance and fire) is primarily determined by:

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  • Cut quality

  • Proportions

  • Light performance

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So, does clarity affect brilliance? Only if inclusions are large enough to interfere with light, which is not the case for VS or VVS diamonds.

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When choosing the best clarity for sparkle, both VS and VVS will perform beautifully if the diamond is well cut.


VS vs VVS Lab-Grown Diamonds

The grading standards for Lab Grown diamonds are exactly the same as natural diamonds.

This means:

  • VS Lab Grown Diamonds follow the same clarity criteria as natural VS diamonds.

  • VVS Lab Grown Diamonds are graded with the same strict standards.

Lab Grown Diamonds often offer:

  • Exceptional clarity availability

  • Strong value for higher grades

  • Ethical and sustainable sourcing

For many buyers, lab grown VS or VVS diamonds provide premium quality at a more accessible price point.


Which Diamond Clarity Should You Choose?

Choosing between VS and VVS depends on your priorities.


Best Diamond Clarity for Engagement Rings

VS clarity is often considered ideal because:

  • It appears flawless

  • It offers excellent value

  • It keeps more budget available for size or cut quality

However, some buyers prefer VVS for added prestige and rarity.


Best Diamond Clarity for Earrings

For earrings, VS clarity is more than sufficient. Since earrings are viewed from a distance, inclusions are virtually impossible to detect.


Is VVS Worth It?

VVS is worth it if:

  • You want the highest possible clarity within reason

  • You value technical perfection

  • Budget is less of a concern

VS is worth it if:

  • You want maximum value

  • You prefer practical luxury

  • You care more about visible beauty than microscopic grading


Final Thoughts

When comparing VS vs VVS diamond clarity, both offer exceptional brilliance and beauty. The difference lies in microscopic inclusions visible only under magnification — not in everyday sparkle.


For most jewellery buyers, VS clarity provides the perfect combination of quality and value. VVS offers elevated precision and rarity for those who want top-tier grading.


Ultimately, the best diamond clarity is the one that aligns with your priorities, budget, and style.



 
 
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