VVS2 diamonds are exceptionally high-quality on the diamond clarity chart. A VVS2 will have tiny inclusions that will rarely be seen even under 10X magnification and will always be “eye-clean”. However, to the naked eye, a VVS2 clarity diamond may not look any different from one several grades lower, yet will come at a higher price.
Shapes with step cuts, such as Emerald and Asscher, how inclusions more clearly and will benefit most from higher clarity grades.
In this article we discuss whether a VVS2 clarity diamond is the best bang for your buck.
What will we cover in this article:
What is a VVS2 clarity?
VVS2 vs. VS2
VVS1 vs. VVS2
GIA diamond clarity grading scale
How to find an eye-clean diamond
VVS2 diamond price
Is VVS2 a good quality diamond?
Best diamond shapes for VVS clarity
Where to buy VVS diamonds
FAQs
Why you should trust us
To help you with the diamond buying process we lean on our expertise and experience. The author of this article, our CEO, Mike Fried has over 20 years of experience in the diamond industry. Mike started from the bottom, sorting and evaluating hundreds of thousands of diamonds to learn every facet (pun intended) of diamond quality and value. Mike followed that up by spending years buying and selling diamonds on the wholesale market as well as selling tens of millions of dollars worth of diamonds to diamond retailers.
What is a VVS2 Diamond?
VVS2 is a diamond clarity grade. Clarity is an indication of how many inclusions, or blemishes, are present in a diamond. The higher the grade, the fewer the diamond’s imperfections, or the harder they are to notice.
A VVS2 diamond is almost certain to be clear and free of any noticeable inclusions. VVS2 diamonds are (assuming qualities such as diamond cut and color are also a reasonable standard) exquisitely beautiful. They will also come with a price tag to match.
Deal Alert: Get 25% off engagement ring settings at Blue Nile!
What is VVS2 Clarity?
“The GIA Clarity Scale contains 11 grades, with most diamonds falling into the VS (very slightly included) or SI (slightly included) categories.” “[In a VVS1 or VVS2 diamond], inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification.” Gemological Institute of America (GIA)
When referring to diamond clarity, VVS2 clarity means “Very Very Slightly Included” to the 2nd degree. VVS2 is extremely high on the overall clarity scale, only two levels below IF, or Internally Flawless – which means the diamond is free from any imperfections whatsoever.
While VVS2 clarity diamonds do have some inclusions, they should only be visible under 10x magnification. Even then, they are likely to appear very faint or may take a while to locate.
The difficulty to spot inclusions, even for a professional using a jeweler’s loupe, means a VVS2 clarity diamond will appear clean to the naked eye in all cases.
VVS2 vs VS2
VS2 diamonds are two steps lower on the diamond clarity grading scale, and therefore more included. While inclusions in a VVS2 diamond are difficult for a professional to see under magnification, a VS2 diamond’s imperfections are generally quite easy to see in the same circumstances.
With the naked eye, however, it may be difficult to tell the difference between a VVS2 diamond and a VS2 diamond. VS2 diamonds are often clean to the naked eye, and the only difference between the two grades is how easy it is to see imperfections under a loupe.
The difference in price between VVS2 and VS2 diamonds is not insignificant. Look at these two 1ct diamonds, graded the same in areas other than clarity. The first, VVS2 clarity, is priced at $5,550. The second, VS2, has a price of $4,470.
Under normal viewing conditions it will be difficult to pick which is the VS2 and which is the VVS2, so you may be able to save several hundred dollars at least by finding an eye-clean VS2 diamond.
VVS1 vs VVS2
Both VVS2 and VVS1 diamonds are exquisitely beautiful, and eye-clean.
VVS1 (Very Very Slightly Included to the 1st degree) is one grade higher than VVS2, and only one grade away from Internally Flawless. With a VVS1 diamond, inclusions can not even be seen under 10x magnification. More powerful equipment is necessary to pick out any blemishes in a VVS1 diamond.
Though VVS2 diamonds are more included than VVS1 diamonds, both clarity grades indicate a diamond that is essentially flawless to the naked eye. Even a trained professional will not be able to tell any difference between a VVS1 and VVS2 diamond without magnification, yet you can expect to pay a little extra for the higher grade.
Diamond Clarity Grading Scale by the GIA
To get an idea where VVS2 clarity sits on the diamond clarity grading scale, check out our interactive diamond clarity chart below:
Find the Cheapest “Eye-Clean” Diamond
We could recommend you look for a certain clarity grade when you buy a diamond, but in truth, physical appearance is all that matters.
More important than whether a diamond is graded VVS2, VS2 or anything else is how it appears under normal viewing conditions. Your intention should be to pay as little as possible (in terms of clarity; take into account other factors too) for an eye-clean diamond.
Eye-clean means a diamond is free of inclusions to the naked eye. Inclusions may be noticeable under magnification, but for the normal person, in normal conditions, it will look clear.
Pro Tip: Don’t focus on the GIA diamond clarity grade too much. Yes, the vast majority of SI2 clarity diamonds are not eye-clean. Who cares? You aren’t buying 100 diamonds, you are buying one. Selecting an eye-clean SI2 diamond like this one from Blue Nile, you get a better looking diamond (in this case) to this VS2 diamond from BN for significantly less money.
By focusing your search for eye-clean diamonds, rather than a specific clarity grade, you can save a lot of money on your purchase. There may be no discernible difference to the naked eye between a VVS2 and an SI1 diamond, for example, yet the difference in price will be immense.
Here, for example, we have a beautiful 1.20ct carat VVS2 round diamond, priced at $6,360. Yet if you were to find an eye-clean SI1 diamond with the same grades in other areas you could save a lot, like this diamond priced at $4,620.
Before making a purchase, be sure to make use of high-quality photography to inspect the diamond, like that which is offered by vendors like James Allen and Blue Nile. Find a diamond with no easily noticeable inclusions or inclusions that are going to be easily hidden by the setting (if you’re buying a diamond ring). This will allow you to avoid overpaying for a clarity grade that doesn’t provide any clear difference in appearance.
Ringo™ Approved Eye Clean Diamonds
We developed Ringo to help your search for the perfect eye-clean diamond. Ringo is a patented artificial intelligence model that is able to examine videos of diamonds to determine if they are eye-clean. Ringo is also able to filter for other factors like cut quality and fluorescence issues and ensure the diamond you’re looking at matches your choice in setting style.
VVS2 Diamond Price
The average price of a 1 carat round VVS2 diamond, excellent or ideal cut with an H-I color grade is around $6,000-$7,000. As an example, take this diamond from James Allen, 1 carat with I color and VVS2 clarity, priced at $6,770.
Various factors affect the diamond price, other than its clarity grade. The other 4 C’s – these being cut, color and carat weight – all have an influence on price.
A 0.50 carat round VVS2 diamond should cost on average around $1,000, such as this well-cut, I color diamond from Blue Nile, for $900.
On the higher end in carat, you can expect to pay at least $17,000 for a 2 carat round VVS2 diamond, such as this 2.01 carat, I/VVS2 diamond from James Allen for $18,060, or this 2.01 carat, I/VVS2 diamond from Blue Nile for $18,500.
Is VVS2 A Good Quality Diamond?
VVS2 diamonds are exceptionally high quality (in terms of diamond clarity, at least). A VVS2 diamond is sure to be eye-clean, which means to anyone that looks at it in normal conditions, it will appear to have flawless clarity.
According to the GIA, VVS2 diamonds contain minute inclusions that are very difficult to see even when the diamond is viewed under 10x magnification. These include tiny pinpoints, needles, graining and/or clouds. In other words, a VVS2 diamond is exceptionally unlikely to have inclusions that you can see on your own, outside the environment of a brightly lit diamond grading lab with magnifying equipment.
The only diamonds higher on the clarity grading scale are VVS1 diamonds or flawless diamonds, which are exceptionally rare and valuable (look at this gorgeous 3.01ct FL round cut diamond as an example). You’re rarely going to see anything better than a diamond with a VVS2 clarity grade.
It’s important to realize, however, that the visible difference, at least to the naked eye, between a VVS2 diamond and one several grades lower may be difficult to tell. For this reason, depending on the size (2 carat diamonds and above generally require a higher clarity grade) and shape (some shapes show inclusions easier than others), we generally recommend going with a clarity grade between VS1-SI1, to maximize beauty without overpaying.
Best Shapes for VVS2
As mentioned in the previous section, some shapes are better or worse for diamond clarity. Some effectively hide inclusions, allowing you to save money by opting for a lower clarity grade.
Brilliant cut diamonds are the best at hiding inclusions. With a round cut, a grade of VS2 or SI1 (in some cases SI2 as well) is usually enough to be eye-clean. Other brilliant cuts, such as the cushion cut, radiant cut, oval cut, marquise and pear shape mask inclusions even better, and you’ll often be able to go as low as SI1-SI2 clarity.
For instance, can you see a difference between these two cushion cut diamonds?
1.00ct H SI2 cushion cut diamond vs. 1.01ct H VVS2 cushion cut diamond
In contrast, shapes with step cuts (long, straight facet patterns, as opposed to the triangular patterns of brilliant cut diamonds) show inclusions more clearly, and as a result, you’ll need to go with a higher clarity grade. With asscher and emerald cuts, a VS2/VS1 clarity grade or higher is recommended.
Look at these beautiful examples:
0.90ct H VS1 asscher cut diamond
1.51ct G VS1 emerald cut diamond
Speaking in regards to VVS2 diamonds, the choice of shape doesn’t matter very much. If you’re picking out a VVS2 diamond, it should be eye-clean no matter the shape. In just about any shape, except perhaps an exceptionally large, emerald or asscher cut diamond for example, you’ll even be able to drop at least one grade lower to VS1 clarity and still come away with a beautiful eye-clean diamond.
Where to Buy a VVS2 Diamond
The best place to go for a VVS2 diamond is an online vendor like James Allen or Blue Nile. These two stores are the best it gets for high-quality imagery and inspection tools to help you get a close look at any diamond before you make a purchase. (To view all places we recommend, check our where to buy a diamond guide.)
Images are particularly important for judging diamond clarity and making sure the diamond you’re about to buy is eye-clean.
On top of that, both stores have a huge inventory and great prices, made possible by their online business model. That gives you a better chance of finding the perfect diamond and the setting to match, all at an affordable price.
FAQs About VVS2 Clarity Diamonds
What is better, VS1 or VVS2?
VVS2 diamonds are one level higher on the diamond clarity scale than VS1 diamonds. However, they don’t always make a better purchase. If a VS1 and VVS2 diamond are both eye-clean, you can save money for no difference in quality by choosing the VS1 diamond.
Should I buy VVS1 or VVS2?
In almost all cases, you won’t be able to tell the difference between a VVS1 and VVS2 diamond with the naked eye. That means the VVS2 is a better purchase, as it will cost less, with no noticeable difference in quality.
Is a VVS2 diamond worth it?
VVS2 diamonds are not usually worth buying when you consider that most VS1-VS2 diamonds, or even some SI1 diamonds, are also eye-clean yet cost significantly less. VVS2 diamonds are generally only worth it if you’re looking at large diamonds or diamonds that show inclusions easier, and thus you can’t find any lower grades without noticeable imperfections.
How much does a VVS2 clarity diamond cost?
A nice one carat round diamond that is VVS2 clarity costs about $5,600. The price can vary a bit based on which shape you select, what color grade you go with, and whether it’s well cut or not.
Bottom Line Recommendation:
You should focus your search on finding a diamond that is eye-clean, and doesn’t have any imperfections or blemishes that are noticeable under normal viewing conditions. Often this can be done with a diamond in the VS2-SI1 range, such as this beautiful VS2 or SI1 diamond, especially for smaller diamonds and brilliant cuts, allowing you to save money on your purchase.
Pros of VVS2 Diamonds
Cons of VVS2 Diamonds
A VVS2 diamond is sure to be eye-clean, and won’t display any noticeable inclusions.
Often you can find a VS2 or SI1 diamond that carries the same visible impact for much cheaper.
VVS2 clarity is a good pick for shapes that show inclusions easily, like emerald or asscher cuts.
VVS2 may be overkill for many popular diamond shapes, such as round diamonds or other brilliant cuts.
You may want to consider VVS2 clarity for high-carat diamonds, 2 carats and above.
Focus on finding a diamond that appears clean to the naked eye (i.e. no big inclusions).
Having trouble navigating the diamond buying minefield? We are happy to help. CONTACT US
Need Help With A Decision? Contact Us Today
If you’re struggling to know where to start on your search for a diamond or have any questions about diamond clarity, we’re here to help.
Contact our experts for help finding an eye-clean diamond, choosing between diamonds at different clarity grades, or anything else that comes up during your search. We’ll help you pick out the perfect diamond at the best price.
Here are more specific clarity topics to browse:
- What is the best diamond clarity (on diamond clarity chart)?
- Is diamond color or diamond clarity more important?
- What are I2 diamonds and their average price?
- What are I1 diamonds and their average price?
- What are SI3 diamonds and their average price?
- What are SI2 diamonds and their average price?
- What are SI1 diamonds and their average price?
- What is VS diamond clarity?
- What are VS2 diamonds and their average price?
- What are VS1 diamonds and their average price?
- What are VVS diamonds and their average price?
- What are VVS1 diamonds and their average price?
- What are internally flawless diamonds and their average price?
- What is the best clarity for lab-grown diamonds?
- Is diamond fluorescence under UV light good or bad?
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free International Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisals
- One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
- Free ring inscriptions
- Best-in-class high quality imagery of all diamonds in stock
- 24/7 Customer Service
- Best-in-class packaging
What we love about them:
- No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. Blue Nile will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
- Lifetime Warranty
- Free Shipping
- Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
- Provide insurance appraisal
- One free resizing within the first year of purchase
- High quality images of about half of their diamonds
- 24/7 Customer Service
- 100% credit towards future upgrades (must be at least double in value)
- Best in class fulfillment
Still afraid of getting ripped off?
Before you buy a diamond, get personal buying advice from industry veterans. We'll help you get the best diamond for the money.
Ask your diamond purchase question here
DISCLAIMER: We don't use your email for marketing. Period.
You Might Like
Diamond Prices: A Complete Guide
A diamonds’ price is determined primarily by the 4 Cs of the diamond. On the wholesale level, diamond prices are first based on a diamond shape and
The Best Places to Buy Engagement Rings
Buying an engagement ring is often one of the first major purchases in a person's life. The process can be fraught with tension as there are so m
1 Carat Diamond Price & Buying Guide
A wide range of 1 carat diamonds exist both in online markets and local diamond jewelry stores. Not only are there significant differences in beauty
