VVS1 Diamond

VVS1 diamonds, known for their exceptional clarity, are among the most coveted gems in the world. These diamonds have very, very slight inclusions that are nearly impossible to detect even under 10x magnification, making them incredibly rare and valuable.

In fact, there’s a particular VVS1 diamond that stands out in my memory. A client brought in a family heirloom for appraisal – a stunning VVS1 diamond ring that had been passed down for generations. The clarity and brilliance of the stone were so mesmerizing that it left everyone in awe, reaffirming why VVS1 diamonds are truly exceptional.

If you’re interested in the intricacies of diamond clarity, VVS1 diamonds offer an intriguing study. Their nearly flawless appearance makes them instantly attractive to anyone within a viewing radius. So, without further ado, let’s talk about them here.

VVS1 Diamond Meaning

Renowned for their purity, VVS1 (Very Very Slightly Included) diamonds feature minuscule inclusions that even a jeweler’s loupe may find difficult to expose.

This clarity grade is evidence of both the exact precision of gem cutters and the creativity of nature. It’s basically the highest level of the “very, very slightly included” range – just two steps below perfect excellence.

From the unaided view – that is, without magnification – they look quite perfect and radiate a brightness free from any obvious flaws.

Though more affordable, VVS1 diamonds have a similar visual impact to higher clarity grades. This is why they’re popular among those who don’t care much about the clarity grade, only the diamond’s aesthetic appeal.

VVS1 Clarity Meaning

Officially, the VVS1 is one of the diamond clarity grades defined by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Institutions like the GIA grade diamonds using rigorous and meticulous examination processes. 

This diamond falls into the “Very, Very Slightly Included” category, meaning that even under 10x magnification, a trained grader may find it extremely difficult to find imperfections because they’re so small and honestly inconsequential.

In the hierarchical structure of diamond clarity, VVS1 sits just below the internally flawless (IF) and flawless (FL) categories. As mentioned, the inclusions in a VVS1 diamond are extremely tiny. These could comprise little, feather-like inclusions located in less noticeable parts of the diamond.

VVS1 Clarity Diamond Price

The price of a VVS1 diamond isn’t just about its clarity grade. Several other factors play a significant role in determining its cost. We’ll talk about this in more detail below. For now, here’s a sample table of how much a VVS1 clarity diamond could fetch on the market.

Carat	Price
1.00	$7,000 – $15,000
1.50	$10,000 – $25,000
2.00	$20,000 – $50,000
3.00	$40,000 – $80,000
4.00	$70,000 – $120,000
5.00 and up	$100,000 – $200,000+

Is VS or VVS more expensive?

Understanding how clarity grades affect the total price will help one decide between VS (Very Slightly Included) and VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) diamonds.

Clarity grades evaluate how clearly a diamond’s defects and blemishes show under 10x magnification.

Though both VS and VVS diamonds are quite clear to the unaided eye, VVS diamonds are more expensive due to their clarity. Since they’re considered more attractive, it’s only natural that they’ll have a bigger price tag as well.

For example, a one-carat (ct), D color, VVS1 diamond could cost up to 40% more than a diamond of the same weight and color. It’s not just arbitrary either. This notable price difference reflects the better clarity and rarity of VVS diamonds. A 1.00 ct G-H color VVS1 diamond usually costs 15% to 20% more than a corresponding VS1 or VS2 diamond.

If you’re having trouble choosing between these two, think about what’s most important to you. 

If your goal is to just have a diamond without any noticeable flaws, a VS diamond is already good enough. But for those who appreciate the best things in life, a VVS diamond’s flawless clarity and scarcity are quite incomparable.

VVS1 Clarity Grade Scale Comparisons

While many diamond imperfections aren’t really visible to the naked eye, the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses clarity charts to officially grade diamonds.

The clarity scale ranges from Included (I) to Flawless (FL). A VVS1 diamond, or Very Very Slightly Included 1, represents the higher grade within the VVS tier. This means minimal inclusions that are only noticeable when checked under a loupe or magnifying lens.

In this section, let’s compare VVS1 with other similar clarity grades like VVS2 and VS1. Keep in mind that the farther two grades are on a scale, the greater their differences. So, it doesn’t really make sense to compare VVS1 with, say, I2, because at that point their differences are too great to even compare.

VVS1 vs VVS2 Diamonds

Both VVS1 and VVS2 fall under the Very, Very Slightly Included category, which means they have superior clarity. Diamonds under these two grades are nearly flawless to the naked eye and even under magnification.

Their main difference is where their inclusions can be found. VVS1 diamonds have inclusions typically on their pavilion, making them nearly invisible from the top view. Meanwhile, VVS2 diamonds may have inclusions found anywhere within the diamond. This can make them slightly more visible.

Price-wise, both are fairly expensive compared to lower clarity grades. Of course, VVS1 diamonds usually have a higher price than VVS2 diamonds.

For budget-conscious buyers, VVS2 offers excellent value with minimal visible differences. The VVS1, naturally, is a better choice for those who are willing to shell out money for a higher clarity grade.

VVS1 vs VS1 Diamonds

Unlike VVS1 and its tiny pinpoints or faint feathers found mostly on its pavilion, VS1 diamonds have inclusions that can be found anywhere throughout the diamond. Also, they feature inclusions that, under magnification, are far more apparent, such as crystals, feathers, or needles.

To the human eye, though, both VVS1 and VS1 diamonds may appear flawless. Still, the former usually has fewer significant imperfections. This better clarity usually fetches a higher price. For example, it’s not unusual for a 1-carat round VVS1 diamond with outstanding color and cut can be far more costly than a VS1 diamond with similar qualities.

In terms of value, VS1 diamonds usually offer a better balance between price and quality. Of course, if budget permits and you really want as high a clarity you can get, VVS1 remains to be the better option.

VVS1 vs IF

IF (Internally Flawless) diamonds have no internal inclusions visible even at 10x magnification. They may have minor surface blemishes, but these are typically invisible to the naked eye. This makes IF diamonds superior in clarity to VVS1, which has tiny internal inclusions.

While both grades appear flawless to the unaided eye, IF diamonds can fetch higher prices due to their better clarity. It’s typical for an IF diamond to have only a slight polishing mark on the surface, which does not affect its overall appearance, unlike VVS1 diamonds that have internal features, albeit minimal.

IF diamonds are ideal for those who want the pinnacle of internal clarity without the premium of completely flawless diamonds. However, if you seek a balance between exceptional clarity and value, VVS1 offers a near-flawless appearance at a lower cost.

Are All VVS1 Eye Clean?

“Eye clean” diamonds are those that, without magnification, look flawless or at least flawless enough. Usually, they do have flaws, it’s just that those flaws are so small that they’re impossible to see without a loupe.

For the most part, one can say that all VVS1 diamonds are eye-clean. A great majority of them certainly are. After all, they don’t have large or noticeable inclusions or blemishes. If they do have some, those imperfections are usually in areas that aren’t that obvious when viewed from above.

That said, I always tell my team to urge clients to examine the diamond for themselves before purchasing. This is best done under good lighting and with a jeweler’s loupe or a magnifying glass. This is helpful in confirming that the diamond they’re interested in meets their expectations to avoid potential problems down the road.

Is VVS1 Rare?

VVS1 diamonds are certainly quite rare since they’re just below Internally Flawless (IF) and Flawless (FL) clarity grades. Two of the main contributing factors to their rarity are:

• How they were created. Natural diamonds develop deep below the Earth over millions of years. This only happens under extreme pressure and temperatures. Oftentimes, the process leaves behind imperfections. So, to find a diamond with very few, unnoticeable inclusions such as a VVS1 clarity grade diamond is quite unusual.
• How they’re graded. GIA’s standards for grading diamonds are pretty high. They, alongside other reputable grading institutions, have exact specifications for evaluating diamond clarity. To achieve a VVS1 grading, a diamond should have inclusions that can only be seen under magnification.

Given the rarity and worth of VVS1 diamonds, getting a certificate from a reliable grading authority like GIA is absolutely essential. This certificate guarantees that the diamond is really VVS1 by verifying its clarity grade and other important qualities. It also guards consumers against buying lower-quality or falsely advertised diamonds.

That said, keep in mind that although natural VVS1 diamonds are rare, advances in technology has enabled us to create lab-grown diamonds with VVS1 purity.

These diamonds are produced in strictly controlled conditions that basically prevent the formation of too many inclusions. However, since there’s a premium put on the rarity of natural diamonds, lab-grown options tend to be more affordable.

Which Diamond Clarity Is Best?

Selecting the best diamond clarity isn’t easy. It relies on your tastes, finances, and what you value in a diamond. However, one thing’s for sure: the best diamond clarity for you depends mainly on you. 

Take it from me – in my over four decades in the diamond industry, I still don’t have a uniform answer whenever someone asks me this question.

Let’s look at some of the factors affecting which diamond clarity is best for you and why it could be VVS1.

Individual Preferences

As mentioned, your personal preferences matter a lot when it comes to choosing the best diamond clarity for you.

Higher clarity grading like VVS1 are perfect for people seeking a diamond that looks perfect to the naked eye. Their almost flawless look makes them much sought after for their aesthetic value. 

Minuscule inclusions found in VVS1 diamonds don’t hamper their extraordinary brilliance and beauty – even under magnification, they can be quite difficult to find. If this is what you value over price, then you won’t regret getting a VVS1 clarity diamond.

Value vs. Quality

Although their better clarity makes VVS1 diamonds more costly, they are absolutely beautiful. Like I said at the beginning of this article, VVS1 diamonds can certainly be stunning despite not being “perfect.” 

Still, classifications like VS1 and VS2 can offer an excellent mix between cost and clarity. These grades feature inclusions that are also usually unnoticeable to the naked eye, but they come at a more reasonable cost.

This means if you want to maximize the carat of your diamond, you might want to look into these lower clarity grades.

Budget Concerns

Now, let’s go to the budget.

• With a high budget, investing in VVS1 or even Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds guarantees you a gemstone with remarkable clarity and few to no inclusions. Often praised for their perfect look, these diamonds are the rarest and most valuable clarity grades below Flawless.
• For individuals on a modest budget, VS1 and VS2 diamonds provide a decent combination of cost and quality. They’re usually eye-clean, which is good enough for those who don’t really care about what the certificate says as long as the diamond looks good.
• If your budget is tighter, SI1 and SI2 diamonds are something to consider, too. Though they have more obvious flaws, these diamonds can let you put more money towards other considerations as carat or color.

Shapes

Diamond shapes and diamond clarity grades have a unique relationship. Depending on the shape, a diamond’s clarity may matter more – or sometimes it may matter less.

How does this happen? Well, for shapes like Round or Princess, their facet patterns make inclusions less noticeable. In these shapes, diamonds like VS1 or VS2 can look just as beautiful as VVS2 or even VVS1.

So, if you’re willing to go for a different shape and are just concerned with eye cleanliness, you might not even need to get a high clarity grade for your diamond.

Best Shapes for VVS1 diamonds

Speaking of shapes, let’s talk about what the best shapes for VVS1 diamonds are.

Maximizing the natural brilliance and clarity of a VVS1 diamond depends on selecting the appropriate shape for it.

As mentioned, different shapes accentuate different facets of the diamond. So, choosing the correct one can improve the visual attractiveness and brilliance of your gemstone.

Below, we look at three popular VVS1 diamond shapes.

Round Cut

Known for its exceptional brilliance and fire, the round brilliant cut contains 57 or 58 facets that softly reflect light.

This classic shape is a great fit for a VVS1 diamond. It’s a shape meant to accentuate the shine of the diamond, after all.

Besides, the round brilliant cut is a favorite for many, regardless of the clarity. It has an ageless appeal and is highly adaptable to whatever setting design you may have for it.

Asscher Cut

With its distinctive square form and stepped facets, the Asscher cut has a vintage, timeless appeal.

This cut is designed to produce an amazing “hall of mirrors” appearance. It’s an amazing choice for a VVS1 diamond since its big, open facets highlight the clarity rather nicely. Inclusions are few and difficult to find, highlighting its natural purity.

For those who value Art Deco-inspired patterns, the Asscher cut’s geometric lines – which give a refined and beautiful appearance – certainly make a stunning choice.

Emerald Cut

Because of its elongated, rectangular form and large, open facets, the emerald cut is often regarded by many jewelers as the finest shape for a VVS1 diamond – apart from the classic round cut, of course.

This diamond shape is a step-cut and is oriented parallel to the girdle. It also has a broad, level plane that further emphasizes the diamond’s appearance, which is why we’ll never recommend this shape to lower clarity grade diamonds.

Of course, with a VVS1 diamond, imperfections are so minor that they’re hardly noticeable anyway.

So, for those who value a sophisticated appearance above all else, the understated elegance and mirror-like reflections of this shape provide the ideal look.

Is A VVS1 Diamond Good?

More than just good, a VVS1 diamond is an excellent choice, sitting just two steps below a flawless grade. This means it has very, very slight inclusions that are difficult to detect even under 10x magnification.

With such minimal imperfections, VVS1 diamonds offer exceptional clarity and brilliance. In fact, they’re nearly indistinguishable from flawless diamonds when viewed by the naked eye. 

Given their superior quality and near-perfect appearance, there’s no reason why a VVS1 clarity grade diamond wouldn’t be considered a fantastic investment for those seeking beauty and purity in their diamond choices.

What Is the VVS1 GIA Rating?

Designated by the GIA, the VVS1 grading is the higher grade under the “Very, Very Slightly Included” group. This official grading refers to a diamond with inclusions so small only a skilled grader would be able to see even under magnification.

Chart-wise, it’s right below Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) ratings and, like I said, at the top of the VVS scale. Another institution that grades diamonds using this chart is the AGS.

Due to GIA’s strict standards, most, if not all, VVS1 diamonds are eye-clean. This means that no imperfections can be seen with the naked eye. 

Of course, although VVS1 diamonds are quite renowned for their clarity, it’s important to also consider cut quality and color when looking at a diamond’s overall value and attractiveness.

When Should I Consider a VVS1 Clarity Diamond?

Unsure when to get a VVS1 clarity diamond? Well, selecting the right clarity for your diamond is a pivotal decision in the buying process, so here’s a quick guide to help you out.

Choose a VVS1 Diamond If:

• You desire near-perfection. If you want the highest clarity you can get without actually aiming for the absolute top of the chart, a VVS1 diamond is a wise choice. VVS1 clarity diamonds are virtually flawless to the naked eye, offering exceptional purity and brilliance.
• You like versatile looks. Although VVS1 diamonds look amazing in step-cuts, they’re also a great choice for traditional, brilliant-cut shapes like round, princess, and oval. These cuts are designed to maximize sparkle and hide imperfections, making a VVS1 diamond’s already minimal inclusions even less noticeable. So, basically, you get the best of both worlds, be it modern beauty or timeless elegance.
• You’re looking for a high-value investment. A VVS1 diamond holds its value exceptionally well due to its near-flawless clarity. This makes it a smart investment for those looking to purchase a diamond that not only has sentimental value but can also hold its monetary worth over time.

Don’t Choose a VVS1 Diamond If:

• You’re on a tight budget. While still less expensive than IF and FL clarity diamonds, VVS1 diamonds still do come at a premium price. If budget constraints are a significant factor, you might find better value in diamonds with slightly lower clarity grades, such as VS1 or VS2. These still offer excellent visual appeal at a more affordable price point.
• You’re prioritizing carat or color over clarity. If your primary focus is on getting a larger carat diamond or a particular color grade, you might need to compromise on clarity to stay within budget. In such cases, opting for a VS1 or VS2 diamond can offer a balance between size, color, and clarity without significantly diminishing the diamond’s overall beauty.
• You’re considering fancy colored diamonds. For diamonds with distinctive colors (such as pink, blue, or yellow), clarity often takes a backseat. The rich colors of these diamonds can mask minor imperfections, so higher clarity grades are less important. If your heart is set on a fancy colored diamond, I would personally recommend that you look at a lower clarity grade to save money – or perhaps splurge on a different characteristic, like the cut or the carat.

Should You Buy a VVS1 Clarity Diamond?

A VVS1 clarity diamond is an amazing choice if you want outstanding clarity and an almost perfect look. This clarity grade guarantees amazing brilliance and beauty of the diamond. Their minor inclusions are practically undetectable even under close inspection. 

Still, purchasing a VVS1 diamond requires careful thought of your budget and tastes. Although their better clarity makes VVS1 diamonds more costly, their aesthetic appeal is hard to deny. A VVS1 diamond is a good investment if clarity is your first concern and you want a diamond that stands out at a glance.

Remember, though, a diamond’s shape, color, and carat weight also affect its general quality. Making sure that these elements fit with your preferences will result in a good buy. 

A VVS1 diamond is difficult to go wrong with, but it should always be balanced with the other Cs to maximize your investment and enjoyment.

Buying A VVS1 Diamond

1. Understand the clarity grade. When you understand the clarity grade yourself, it becomes easier to distinguish the different diamond choices that you have.
2. Check the certification. The first thing you should do during the actual buying process is to check if the diamond comes with a certificate, like all our diamonds here at Diamond Registry. This certificate should come from a reputable grading institution like GIA. It serves as proof that the diamond’s quality has been assessed professionally, including its clarity grade.
3. Examine under magnification. Always request to see the diamond under a jeweler’s loupe or microscope. At Diamond Registry, my team of expert jewelers are trained to guide buyers into checking the diamonds personally, if possible. This allows the buyer to verify location of inclusions and see for themself if it affects the diamond’s visual appeal.
4. Consider the 4Cs together. While clarity is important, don’t overlook the other Cs: Cut, Color, and Carat. A well-balanced diamond with excellent cut and color is always beneficial to the overall beauty and value of your VVS1 diamond.
5. Evaluate the setting. The setting can influence how inclusions, if any, are perceived. Choose a setting that complements the diamond and hides the appearance of inclusions at the same time. For instance, prong settings can expose more of the diamond, while bezel settings may help mask inclusions.
6. Consider your budget. VVS1 diamonds are generally more expensive than those with lower clarity grades. Check your budget beforehand and weigh the benefits of VVS1 clarity against other possible features you may want, such as a larger carat size or better color.
7. Compare prices. Shop around to compare prices from different jewelers. Prices can vary depending on where you’re buying, so it’s worth it to take the time to find the best deal for a VVS1 diamond that meets your standards.
8. Seek professional advice. Consult with a gemologist or a trusted jeweler who can provide expert guidance on selecting the best VVS1 diamond for your needs. Their insights can help you make a more informed purchase.
9. Trust your eyes. Finally, pick the diamond that looks most beautiful to you. Personal preference plays a major role in choosing diamonds. Believe me, the most important thing to us professional jewelers is that you are satisfied with your purchase.

Final Thoughts

VVS1 diamonds are one of the highest clarity grades you can get, so it’s only natural that their beauty comes at a premium price.

Of course, they do provide a near-flawless appearance that looks quite perfect except under magnification. It’s basically as perfect as it gets without paying for an internally flawless (IF) diamond.

At the end of the day, the best diamond clarity is subjective. For one, it could be VVS1. For another, it could be something else. It all depends on individual preferences and circumstances – as long as you’re happy with your choice, that makes it a diamond you’ll value for life.

Diamond Registry CEO’s Expert Opinion

With over 40 years in the diamond industry, I’ve guided countless customers to their perfect gemstones. Here are my top three buying tips for those considering a VVS1 diamond:

• Balance clarity and budget. VVS1 may be more expensive than most other clarity grades, but it’s easy to see the reason why. Of course, if budget constraints are a concern, it might not be wise to choose VVS1. Instead, consider VS1 or VS2 diamonds. These options are more affordable and still appear nearly flawless when viewed without magnification.
• Consider the diamond shape. Different shapes reveal inclusions differently. Round and Princess cuts are excellent at concealing imperfections, allowing you to opt for lower clarity grades without sacrificing beauty. On the other hand, step cuts like Emerald and Asscher highlight clarity. These need higher clarity grades to maintain their allure – which is also why they’re such a great fit for VVS1 clarity diamonds.
• Focus on what matters most. Whether you prioritize size, clarity, or overall sparkle, it’s essential to find a balance that aligns with your preferences. Listen to your heart, and it will lead you to a diamond that fits you perfectly.

VVS1 Diamond Clarity FAQs

More Diamonds Clarity Guides:

• What Are VS Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What Are VS1 Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What Are VS2 Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What Are VVS2 Diamonds And Their Prices?
• What is Diamond Clarity And Diamond Clarity Chart?