What are VVS diamonds?
A comprehensive guide explaining VVS diamond clarity
- A VVS diamond is "Very Very Slightly Included," with minimal inclusions difficult to see even under magnification.
- It is a high-clarity, premium grade on the scale between Flawless and VS.
- They are certified by labs like GIA, establishing their quality and value.
- They command a higher price due to their rarity and exceptional clarity.
- To fit a budget, consider compromising on color or carat weight when shopping for one.
VVS diamonds are rare, high-clarity stones sought after for their near-invisible inclusions. VVS is the letter grade on the clarity scale used to characterize and certify a diamond. Very Very Slightly Included is what it stands for, meaning the diamond has extremely few natural inclusions within its structure. A VVS diamond makes a solid investment and a beautiful center stone for any piece of jewelry.
How Do Inclusions Form in a VVS Diamond?
VVS diamonds form when a rough stone has very few natural inclusions, or when most inclusions get cut away during polishing. Diamonds form under intense heat and pressure deep underground, and inclusions are the natural marks left behind in that process. When a gemologist plans the cut, they position it to remove or hide as many inclusions as possible.
Here's how VVS1, VVS2, and VS1 inclusions typically compare:
| Clarity Grade | Inclusion Type | Visible Under 10×? | Naked-Eye Visible? |
|---|---|---|---|
| VVS1 | Very few, tiny pinpoints or needles | Extremely hard to spot | No |
| VVS2 | Multiple small pinpoints or needles | Hard to spot, slightly more visible face-up | No |
| VS1 | Minor inclusions, slightly larger | Visible with more effort | No |
Are VVS Diamonds Certified?
Yes, VVS diamonds are certified by independent grading labs. Grading is done by trained professionals, though clarity assessment still involves some subjectivity between graders. The most common labs are GIA for natural stones, and IGI or GCAL for lab-grown.
How Much Do VVS Diamonds Cost?
Lab-grown VVS diamonds typically cost 75-85% less than natural VVS diamonds at the same specs, and clarity is one of four factors driving that price. Here's a real comparison at 1 carat, round, G color, Excellent cut, across IF, VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2, SI1, and SI2, natural versus lab-grown:
Prices reflect August 2026 listings and may fluctuate based on availability and market conditions. This reflects lab-grown vs. natural savings only, not Rare Carat's own price advantage of 20-40% off comparable listings.
You can compromise on color or carat weight to find a VVS stone that fits your budget. A VVS stone of any size and color is a stunning addition to any jewelry design. Check the cut, polish, and symmetry too, since these details make the clarity pop even more. Search diamonds to get started. Happy Shopping!
