In almost all cases, the clarity features in both VVS diamonds and VS diamonds cannot be seen with the naked eye. They represent how easily the defining clarity characteristics can be seen when the diamond is examined face-up under 10× magnification. There are two subcategories within each of these (VVS 1, VVS 2 and VS 1, VS 2). In this blog, we’ll focus on diamond clarity grades – specifically, on two grading categories that seem to generate a lot of questions and discussion online: VVS (Very Very Slightly included) and VS (Very Slightly included). But in comparing diamonds of equal size, you may have also discovered that even the smallest differences in grades – quite often impossible to detect with the naked eye – can have a significant impact on price.
That’s because larger diamonds that are graded high on the color, clarity and cut scales are rarer, so they cost more. You’ve noticed that diamond quality and size affect price. If you’ve been comparing diamonds for an engagement ring purchase, you’re no doubt already aware of the GIA 4Cs of diamond quality: Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat Weight. VVS Diamond versus VS Diamond: Why you need to know the difference The GIA Clarity Scale contains 11 possible clarity grades.
