VS2 diamonds offer an optimal balance of quality and value on the clarity scale. These gems have minor inclusions invisible to the naked eye but detectable under 10X magnification by experts. VS2 clarity provides an eye-clean appearance similar to higher grades at a more accessible price point. A 1-carat VS2 diamond typically starts around $4,500, varying based on cut, color, and exact carat weight. This clarity grade is ideal for budget-conscious buyers seeking maximum visual appeal without paying a premium for technically flawless stones. When choosing a VS2 diamond, consider factors like inclusion location and diamond shape to ensure the best overall appearance and value.
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VS2 Clarity Diamonds Price
VS2 diamonds are typically 10-20% less expensive than VS1 diamonds of similar carat weight, color, and cut. For example, a 1-carat VS2 round brilliant diamond with a G color might cost around $5,000-$7,000, while a similar VS1 diamond could cost $5,500-$7,500. Exact prices vary based on current market conditions and individual stone characteristics.
VS2 Clarity Diamonds: 9 Buying Tips
Purchasing a diamond can be a complex task, particularly if you’re a first-time buyer. Here’s a detailed guide to help you buy a VS2 clarity diamond with confidence.
1. Examine the diamond under magnification
Request high-quality magnified images or videos to assess the inclusions.
2. Check inclusion location
Prefer diamonds with inclusions near the edges, as they’re less visible.
3. Consider diamond shape
Opt for round or brilliant cuts, which hide inclusions better than step cuts. Assess size carefully: For diamonds over 1 carat, be more selective as inclusions can be more noticeable.
4. Prioritize cut quality
A well-cut VS2 diamond can outshine a poorly cut higher clarity diamond.
5. Compare multiple options
Look at several VS2 diamonds to find the best balance of clarity and value.
6. Verify certification
Ensure the diamond is certified by a reputable lab like GIA or AGS.
7. Consider fluorescence:
Mild to medium fluorescence can sometimes enhance a diamond’s appearance under UV light.
8. Balance the 4Cs
Don’t focus solely on clarity; consider how it interacts with cut, color, and carat weight.
9. Trust your eyes
If a VS2 diamond looks clean to you without magnification, it’s likely a good choice.
2VS2 vs VS1 Diamonds: Which Is Better
VS2 and VS1 diamonds both fall within the “Very Slightly Included” clarity grade, featuring minor inclusions that are typically difficult to spot under 10x magnification. The key differences are:
- Inclusion Location: VS2 diamonds often have inclusions more centrally located, while VS1 inclusions tend to be near the edges.
- Visibility: Under magnification, VS2 inclusions may be slightly more noticeable due to their central location.
- Eye-Clean Appearance: To the naked eye, both VS2 and VS1 diamonds generally appear flawless, even to experienced jewelers.
- Value: VS2 diamonds offer excellent value, balancing quality and cost.
- Buyer Preference: For those prioritizing absolute clarity, VS1 might be preferable, though VS2 remains an excellent choice for most buyers.
While VS1 diamonds have a slight edge in technical clarity, VS2 diamonds provide comparable beauty at a more attractive price point, making them a popular and smart choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry.
Difference Between VVS1 and VS2 Diamonds
While both VVS1 and VS2 diamonds appear flawless to the naked eye, they differ in clarity grade and price. Here’s a breakdown:
VVS1 Diamonds:
- Higher clarity grade
- Fewer, smaller inclusions (pinpoints or faint feathers)
- Inclusions mainly on the diamond’s pavilion
- More expensive
VS2 Diamonds:
- Lower clarity grade than VVS1
- More noticeable inclusions under magnification
- Inclusions often include small clouds, crystals, or feathers
- Usually found closer to the diamond’s center
- More affordable
VS2 diamonds offer an excellent balance between price and quality. While VVS1 diamonds boast superior clarity, the difference is typically only visible under magnification. For buyers seeking a visually stunning diamond at a more accessible price point, VS2 diamonds are often the recommended choice.
Are all VS2 Eye Clean?
Not all VS2 diamonds are eye-clean, though many are. “Eye-clean” refers to diamonds with inclusions not visible to the naked eye under normal conditions. For VS2 diamonds, this characteristic varies based on individual stones.
The eye-cleanliness of a VS2 diamond depends on several factors. Diamond size plays a crucial role, with larger stones potentially showing inclusions more easily. The location of inclusions also matters; those near the center are often more noticeable than those near the edges. Additionally, the type and size of inclusions can affect visibility.
To determine if a VS2 diamond is eye-clean, personal inspection is best. View the diamond under good lighting conditions to assess any visible inclusions. If in-person viewing isn’t possible, high-quality images or videos can help, though they may not capture all details. For larger VS2 diamonds, especially those over 1 carat, closer scrutiny is advisable as inclusions may be more apparent.
Best Shapes for VS2 Diamonds
While VS2 diamonds offer good clarity, they contain more inclusions than higher grades. When choosing a shape for VS2 diamonds, prioritize cuts that minimize the visibility of inclusions while maximizing the stone’s beauty. Here are the top shapes for VS2 diamonds:
Here are some of our top choices for VS2 diamonds.
- Round Brilliant Cut: The most popular diamond shape, round brilliants excel at hiding inclusions. Their numerous facets create exceptional light reflection, effectively masking minor flaws. This cut’s ability to minimize inclusion visibility makes it ideal for VS2 diamonds.
- Oval Cut Oval diamonds combine elegance with practicality. Their elongated form and brilliant faceting pattern help conceal inclusions, making VS2 diamonds appear nearly flawless. This shape offers excellent clarity perception without the cost of higher grades.
- Princess Cut Known for sharp corners and brilliant sparkle, princess cuts are excellent for VS2 diamonds. The faceting technique effectively hides imperfections, maintaining the stone’s overall brilliance and fire.
- Pear Shape Pear-shaped diamonds blend the best of round and marquise cuts. Their unique faceting pattern helps disguise inclusions, particularly at the wider end of the stone. This shape can make VS2 diamonds appear cleaner than their actual grade.
Is a VS2 diamond good?
The question of whether a VS2 diamond is good depends largely on personal preferences and needs. Having worked in the diamond business for years, I can say the answer can vary.
Many find the VS2 clarity grade to be a perfect balance between cost and clarity. Usually unnoticeable to the unaided eye, the small imperfections in VS2 diamonds can be seen only under magnification. So, if what you want is a stunning diamond without the hefty price tag of better clarity grades like VVS1 or IF, a VS2 diamond is a good – no, a great – choice.
In short, from an expert perspective, VS2 diamonds are generally considered a good quality choice. Buyers searching for eye-clean diamonds will be certainly happy with their affordability and decent clarity, meeting both aesthetic and budgetary requirements.
What is the VS2 GIA rating?
Clarity scale by GIA
The VS2 clarity grade is part of the GIA’s diamond clarity grading system, which assesses the number, size, and visibility of inclusions and blemishes in a diamond.
The GIA clarity scale ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I1, I2, I3), with VS2 positioned below VS1 but above SI1 (Slightly Included 1). This rating makes VS2 diamonds a popular choice for those seeking a balance between clarity and cost.
They offer great value, appearing eye-clean without the high price tag of higher clarity grades like VVS1 or IF.
Final Thoughts
VS2 diamonds offer an excellent balance of quality and value, making them an ideal choice for many buyers. These gems provide an eye-clean appearance at a lower cost than higher clarity grades, with inclusions invisible to the naked eye and only detectable under 10X magnification. For budget-conscious shoppers seeking maximum visual impact, VS2 clarity often represents the sweet spot, especially for engagement rings and fine jewelry. When selecting a VS2 diamond, it’s crucial to consider factors like inclusion location and diamond shape, as these can significantly affect the stone’s overall appearance. Remember that quality can vary among VS2 diamonds, so individual inspection is essential. Ultimately, a well-chosen VS2 diamond can deliver the beauty of a higher clarity grade without the premium price, offering savvy buyers an opportunity to maximize their investment in a stunning piece of jewelry.
VS2 Diamond FAQs
Can a VS2 diamond be cloudy?
A VS2 diamond can be cloudy if it contains internal graining or other inclusions that affect its transparency. However, most VS2 diamonds are clear to the naked eye.
Can you tell diamond clarity by eye?
Generally, diamond clarity cannot be accurately determined by the naked eye. Most inclusions in diamonds with higher clarity grades, such as VS2, are only visible under magnification.
Can you see inclusions in a VS2 diamond?
Inclusions in a VS2 diamond are typically not visible to the naked eye. They usually require 10x magnification to be seen, making these diamonds appear nearly flawless to most observers.
Is VS2 rare?
VS2 diamonds may not be as rare as higher clarity grades, but they’re still rarer than many other clarity levels.
Which Diamond Clarity Is The Best?
As a jeweler with four decades of experience, I’ve learned there’s no single “best” diamond clarity. The best clarity depends on your preferences, budget, and desired balance of aesthetics and value.
Read More About Diamond Clarity Types
- What Are VS Diamonds And Their Prices?
- What Are VS1 Diamonds And Their Prices?
- What Are VVS1 Diamonds And Their Prices?
- What Are VVS2 Diamonds And Their Prices?
- What is Diamond Clarity And Diamond Clarity Chart?
