Diamonds have their own ranking scales which are split into several different categories from colour to clarity. VVS diamonds are just one kind of diamond that fits into those scales.
So what is a VVS diamond? ‘VVS’ stands for ‘very very slightly included’. It’s one of the highest ratings a diamond can have on the GIA clarity scale. VVS diamonds have a higher clarity than VS(very slightly included), SI(slightly included), and I(included). VVS diamonds have very tiny inclusions such as pinpoints, clouds, internal graining or feathers (essentially a small creak in the diamond) which are all internal and do not make an impact to the outside of the stone.
VVS1 or VVS2 Diamonds; what’s the difference? VVS diamonds can be broken down even further to define clarity. A VVS1 diamond typically has inclusions on the underside of the diamond, whereas a VVS2 diamond has inclusions on the top surface of the diamond. Both types, however, are incredibly hard to see even under 10x magnification; in short, with VVS diamonds you are unable to see any imperfections or blemishes with the naked eye. Even a graded trainer may struggle to find imperfections with the correct tools, lighting and training.
So which is better? VVS1 diamonds rank slightly higher than VVS2 diamonds, simply because the inclusions and imperfections are on the underside, meaning that once the diamond is set on a ring the underside isn’t visible, so neither are any of the imperfections no matter how strong a magnifying glass it’s inspected with. A VVS1 diamond is the closest thing to a flawless diamond, which is incredibly rare. A VVS2 diamond is still close to flawless, but a VVS1 diamond is considered closer to flawless than a VVS2 diamond.
Things to look for when buying a VVS diamond; When it comes to clarity, it’s worth considering that whilst you’re purchasing a diamond that is labelled as near-flawless, some of the VS(very slightly included) diamonds will look the same as a VVS diamond. The main difference will be in the price; depending on the cut and set that you desire, a VVS diamond and a VS diamond could look almost the same to the naked eye. It’s also worth considering that the same applies between VVS diamonds and true flawless diamonds. Choosing a VVS diamond will be much less expensive than a fully flawless diamond as they’re so rare, but will often have the same visual perfection.
What else should I consider? When it comes to picking the perfect diamond, you also want to consider the other C’s along with clarity: cut, colour and carat. It will depend on all of these as to what the perfect diamond for you is, because although you may have your heart set on a VVS diamond if it’s not the right cut or colour it may be more beneficial to look at VS diamonds, especially if your budget is slightly lower.
Overall, there are lots of things to consider when it comes to picking the perfect diamond. Picking a diamond that is completely flawless will come with an immense price tag due to how rare they are, so it’s worth considering the VVS or VS diamonds which can look just as perfect for a much lower price.
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