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There are diamonds, and then there are diamonds! Not all of these sparklers are created equally. And we’re not just talking about size, shape, or cut. One needs to consider every aspect of a luxurious, expensive purchase before choosing the piece that’s exactly perfect for them. Enter VVS Diamonds, which stand for ‘Very Very Slightly Included.’ This implies that these diamonds are nearly perfect, making them irresistible to the jewelry connoisseur who knows that size and sparkle aren’t the final words in quality.

Flawless diamonds aren’t the norm. During their formation, they naturally accumulate imperfections like fractures, air bubbles, and traces of carbon. The size and quantity of these natural flaws determine the clarity of a diamond.

Now, there’s a Clarity Grading Scale to categorize them. At the pinnacle, you have FL (Flawless) and IF (Internally Flawless). Flawless diamonds are exceptionally rare, highly prized, and sought after for their scarcity. Internally Flawless diamonds may have a minor blemish or two on the surface, but their interiors are completely clean. They can even undergo recutting to achieve a flawless state.

Diamond Clarity Chart

Now, let’s talk about the clarity scale. First up, we have VVS (Very Very Slightly Included), which is further categorized into VVS1 and VVS2. These diamonds have incredibly tiny imperfections that are almost invisible to the naked eye and require powerful magnification to spot.

Moving forward, we have VS1 and VS2. In this category, the inclusions are somewhat more noticeable but still require a jeweler’s loupe or magnifying glass for clear visibility.

Next are SI1 and SI2 diamonds. In these, you can see the inclusions with the naked eye, though they are still relatively small.

Finally, we come to I1, I2, and I3, where the inclusions are significantly larger and easily visible without any magnification

VVS Diamonds: Virtually Flawless

Let’s dive into VVS diamonds, which stands for ‘very very slightly included.’ These gems are exceptionally clean, to the point that even under a 10x magnification loupe, it’s a challenge to spot any imperfections. Common inclusions in VVS diamonds include things like needles, feathers, clouds, and internal graining. These inclusions are typically quite small in size and not too abundant, which gives the diamond an overall appearance of being pure and flawless.

Now, within the realm of VVS diamonds, we have two categories: VVS1 and VVS2. VVS1 diamonds have fewer inclusions and generally come at a higher price compared to VVS2 diamonds of similar quality in other aspects. Well-recognized grading labs like GIA use specific criteria for grading, which include factors like the number of inclusions, the size of each inclusion, their color (whether they’re light or dark), and their location within the diamond (inclusions near the surface tend to be more noticeable than those deeper within).

Diamonds worldwide are graded based on what we call the four famous Cs: carat, cut, color, and clarity. Carat measures the diamond’s weight, while color assesses its natural hue. Typically, the whiter the diamond, the higher its grade, although this doesn’t apply to fancy-colored diamonds. Cut, on the other hand, deals with the diamond’s shape and facets, influencing how it plays with light.

Now, let’s delve into the fourth C: clarity. This factor revolves around the presence of flaws or inclusions within the diamond, impacting its purity and rarity. Since clarity is something determined by nature, it can’t be predetermined. This is why diamonds with exceptional clarity are highly coveted among both jewelers and serious diamond enthusiasts.

VVS vs. Other Clarity Grades:

VVS diamonds sit just one step below Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds. They may have a few minor flaws, but these are nearly impossible to spot without a magnifying glass. VVS1 is a superior grade compared to VVS2, featuring slightly fewer imperfections. When considering a VVS diamond, it’s essential to take other factors into account. For instance, step-cut diamonds like Emerald or Asscher benefit from the high clarity of VVS, as they have fewer facets that accentuate clarity. Furthermore, in larger diamonds, any flaws become more apparent, making VVS diamonds an excellent choice. They remain entirely imperceptible to the naked eye. However, for smaller diamonds or popular cuts like round or oval, a VS diamond may suffice.

VVS diamonds are remarkably scarce, constituting only about 5% to 7% of all diamonds available in the market. They are more common than Flawless or IF diamonds, representing a mere 2% of the diamond population but rarer than the VS, SI, and I grades. The process of diamond formation involves intense heat and pressure, which makes it susceptible to minor imperfections. Consequently, discovering a diamond with minimal flaws, especially those invisible to the naked eye or even under a regular magnifying glass, is akin to finding a rare gem. The uniqueness and scarcity of VVS diamonds contribute significantly to their desirability, which is a vital factor when selecting the perfect gemstone.

Turning to the financial aspect, diamonds with higher clarity naturally command a higher price. Nevertheless, the cost also depends on other factors such as size/weight, cut, and color. Yet, when all other attributes are equal, clarity is the primary factor influencing the price. It’s the sole element that impacts both the price and rarity.

Flawless diamonds are exceedingly rare and often come with exorbitant price tags. VVS diamonds, however, provide exceptional visual appeal without reaching the price levels of Flawless diamonds. Still, they remain pricier than VS or SI diamonds. If you are budget-conscious and desire perfect clarity, you may need to make compromises, potentially opting for a smaller size or altering the cut. Some individuals prioritize a flawless diamond, while others focus on the overall appearance and are content with a lower clarity grade. Ultimately, it boils down to your personal preferences and budget considerations.

Certification for VVS Diamonds:

To ensure that your diamond boasts a VVS clarity grade, seek certification from globally renowned laboratories. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) represents the gold standard in grading.

These grades are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a diamond with a flawless appearance without the associated high cost. VVS diamonds possess an entirely clean, flawless appearance to the naked eye and exude an elegant charm. At Private Jewelers, we prioritize diamond clarity and certification. Visit our storefront to find your perfect diamond.