VRAI

What Are VVS Diamonds: Pros and Cons Before Buying

Known for their practically flawless appearance, VVS diamonds are as coveted as they are clear. But what are VVS diamonds and are they worth buying over lower clarity grades? Use this guide to help you decide if a VVS lab-grown diamond is the best choice for you, or if a different clarity grade is better for your VRAI created diamond.

What Are VVS Diamonds?

VVS diamonds are diamonds that have a VVS diamond clarity grade. VVS stands for very, very slightly included and it’s considered one of the highest clarity grades. VVS Diamonds should appear flawless to the naked eye and only have visible inclusions when viewed under 10x magnification.

Are VVS Diamonds Real?

VVS diamonds are real but they are rare. Diamonds with this clarity grade are hard to find. If a diamond retailer claims to have a VVS diamond, verify its diamond certification to ensure it’s real.

How Many Types of VVS Diamonds Are There?

There are two different types of VVS diamonds: VVS1 and VVS2.

VVS1 Diamonds

VVSI stands for “very, very slightly included first degree.” This is the highest clarity grade for VVS diamonds. VVS1 diamonds will have minimal inclusions that are very hard to discern under 10x magnification, even for a trained expert.

VVS2 Diamonds

VVS2 diamonds stand for “very, very slightly included second degree.” This clarity grade is just below VVS1 diamonds. VVS2 diamonds have few inclusions that are hard to spot under magnification unless viewed by a trained expert.

The primary difference between VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds is how noticeable the inclusions are. VVS2 diamonds have slightly darker or bigger inclusions than VVS1 diamonds. VVS2 inclusions also might be located in areas of the diamond that are easier to see under magnification. Both VVS diamonds appear flawless to the naked eye, however.

Understanding VVS Diamond Clarity

Diamond clarity refers to how clear or pure a diamond appears. Gemologists evaluate the diamond using 10x magnification and note the number, location, visibility, depth, and color of any inclusions or blemishes.

Once a diamond has been thoroughly evaluated, it’s assigned a diamond grade. The highest diamond clarity grade is Flawless (FL) followed by Internally Flawless(IF). VVS is the next clarity grade, after IF.

VVS diamonds are given a VVS1 or VVS2 clarity grade because they appear eye-clean, with only a few tiny blemishes under magnification.

“While clarity does matter, more so depending on the diamond shape, at a VVS level the inclusions are so imperceptible that regardless of the shape they will not be visible to the naked eye,” explains Grace Taylor, VRAI’s Sr. Director of Sales & CX.

Are VVS Diamonds Flawless?

No, VVS diamonds are not flawless. Flawless diamonds are their own clarity grade and the highest clarity grade. As their name suggests, flawless diamonds have no inclusions or blemishes, even when viewed under magnification.

What’s the Difference Between VVS and VS Diamonds?

VS stands for “very slightly included.” There are VS1 and VS2 diamonds. VS diamonds are one clarity grade beneath VVS diamonds. As such, VS diamonds have more inclusions and/or blemishes under magnification but they are still typically not visible to the naked eye.

Deciding between VVS or VS diamonds comes down to personal preference, as the visual difference is barely noticeable. However, VVS diamonds are considerably more rare than VS diamonds which makes them more sought after and valuable.

Pros and Cons of VVS Diamonds

Before buying VVS diamonds, consider the pros and cons.

Pros of VVS Diamonds

  • Rarity. For those who seek rare diamonds, a VVS diamond certainly fits that criteria.
  • Ideal for Higher Carat Weights. Inclusions and blemishes that were previously hidden may become visible at higher carat weights. If you prefer larger diamonds, a VVS diamond will ensure that any inclusions remain invisible no matter the diamond size.
  • Pristine appearance. VVS diamonds aren’t flawless but they certainly look flawless to the naked eye.

Cons of VVS Diamonds

  • Expensive. Diamond clarity affects a diamond’s price. A VVS clarity grade often considerably increases the total price.
  • Imperceptible Differences. The naked eye can’t tell the difference between a VVS diamond and VS diamond. But a VVS diamond will cost more than a VS diamond and other lower clarity grades. With barely visible differences, this can make it harder to justify the higher price tag if you’re on a tighter budget.
  • Hard to find. Due to their rarity, it can be harder to find VVS diamonds.

When to Choose VVS1 or VVS2 Diamonds

While VVS diamonds are beautiful, rare, and practically flawless, for many people they aren’t necessarily worth the extra investment.

“I would only recommend purchasing a VVS diamond if you are seeking incredible rarity. There is no noticeable visual difference between a VVS diamond and an eye-clean SI or VS diamond,” says Taylor. “But, since diamond value is driven by rarity, if that is the main priority then VVS is the way to go.”

Another thing to take into consideration is the diamond shape and carat weight. Certain diamond shapes hide inclusions well like Round Brilliant or Pear cut diamonds. For these shapes, you can choose lower clarity grades without sacrificing beauty.

Other shapes, like Emerald cut diamonds or larger diamonds, will show inclusions more.

A VS diamond, however, is usually a high enough clarity grade to provide an eye-clean diamond no matter the shape or carat weight, step-faceted shapes at high carat weights being a possible exception. But if price is not a factor, and rarity is a priority, then VVS diamonds make an excellent choice.

How to Buy VVS Lab-Grown Diamonds

You can buy a VVS VRAI created diamond on our website or at one of our showrooms. Our diamond experts can help you find the ideal diamond clarity grade for your preferred shape and setting when you book an appointment.

To buy a VVS diamond online, visit our VRAI diamond table. You can filter by VVS clarity grade as well as diamond shape, price, cut, color, and carat. Then select the VVS diamond you love to customize your ring setting or purchase without setting.

VVS Diamonds FAQs

Read on for answers to any remaining questions regarding VVS diamonds.

Do VVS Diamonds Get Cloudy?

No, VVS diamonds will not start to look cloudy over time. If your diamond suddenly looks cloudy, it most likely needs to be cleaned. All VRAI engagement and wedding rings include an annual complimentary professional clean.

Can You Shower With VVS Diamonds?

We don’t recommend showering while wearing a VVS diamond or any diamond. Getting diamonds wet can cause build-up and will make your diamond appear duller until it’s cleaned.

Do VVS Diamonds Have More Brilliance?

VVS diamonds may help reflect light better, but they don’t typically have more brilliance than lower-clarity grade diamonds. Brilliance primarily comes down to the diamond cut and diamond shape.

Clarity grade will primarily only affect brilliance if a diamond has a particularly large or dark inclusion on a noticeable area. But diamonds with these inclusions would not be VVS diamonds.

Are VVS Diamonds Made in a Lab?

Both lab-grown and mined diamonds can have a VSS clarity grade. Any real diamond that fits the criteria for VVS is considered a VVS diamond.

Do VVS or VS Diamonds Cost More?

VVS diamonds cost more than VS diamonds, sometimes significantly so. Since Flawless diamonds are so rare, VVS1 diamonds are the most expensive clarity grade that you’ll typically find.

Discover VRAI Created Diamonds

Explore our full inventory of VRAI created diamonds to find a beautiful, certified, VVS lab-grown diamond. Our diamonds are grown in our zero-emission foundry powered by renewable energy from the Columbia River. Experience the VRAI difference by choosing a lab-grown diamond that reflects your values.