VS1 vs. VS2 Diamond Clarity: Which is the Better Choice?

When you’re shopping for a diamond engagement ring, you’ll hear a lot about diamond clarity. This feature is one of the 4 Cs, with the other three being color grade, carat weight, and cut, and refers to the presence of eye-visible inclusions or blemishes. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond clarity on a scale from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3).

While we all dream of flawless diamonds, the reality is that they are incredibly rare and often come with a high price tag. VS1 and VS2 clarity grades, however, offer an exceptional blend of quality and value that makes them a popular choice among savvy ring shoppers. Both fall under the Very Slightly Included category, meaning they have minor inclusions that can be difficult to see even under 10x magnification.

In this article, we share what you need to know about VS1 vs. VS2 clarity diamonds. Whether you're looking for excellent clarity or the perfect balance of brilliance and value, we’ve got all the insights to help you choose the best lab or natural diamond for your dream ring.

The Diamond Clarity Scale Explained

Each grade on the diamond clarity grading scale reflects the level of inclusions and blemishes in the stone, which affects its overall appearance and value. As stated previously, the scale ranges from flawless (FL) to Included (I3).

• FL (Flawless): No diamond inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
• IF (Internally Flawless): No inclusions, only minor surface blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
• VVS1 and VVS2 (Very, Very Slightly Included): Minimal inclusions are very difficult to see under 10x magnification.
• VS1 and VS2 (Very Slightly Included): Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification but still minor.
• SI1 and SI2 (Slightly Included): Noticeable inclusions under 10x magnification that may be visible to the naked eye.
• I1, I2, and I3 (Included): Obvious inclusions under 10x magnification that are also visible to the naked eye.

Now let’s take a closer look at the differences between VS1 and VS2 diamond grading, so you can make the most informed and glamorous choice for your dream ring.

VS1 Diamond Clarity

VS1 diamond clarity, or "Very Slightly Included 1," refers to diamonds that have very small inclusions or imperfections that are difficult to see even under 10x magnification. These inclusions are so minor that they do not affect a high-quality diamond's overall brilliance and sparkle.

In the clarity grading scale, VS1 is one of the higher grades, just below the VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included) categories and above the VS2 grade. The inclusions in a VS1 diamond are typically so tiny and sparse that they are invisible to the naked eye, ensuring that the diamond appears flawless and radiant.

When choosing a VS1 diamond, you're opting for a stone that offers exceptional clarity at a more accessible price point than higher-graded diamonds like IF (Internally Flawless) or VVS. It's a wonderful choice for those who want a visually stunning diamond without paying a premium for higher clarity grades.

VS2 Diamond Clarity

VS2 diamond clarity, or "Very Slightly Included 2," indicates diamonds with very small inclusions that are slightly more noticeable than those in VS1 diamonds when viewed under 10x magnification. However, these inclusions are still minor and typically invisible to the naked eye, making VS2 diamonds an excellent choice for those seeking a balance between clarity and value.

On the clarity grading scale, VS2 is just below VS1, meaning the visible inclusions are a bit more prominent but still do not significantly impact the diamond's overall appearance or brilliance. These inclusions can include tiny crystals, feathers, or clouds, but they are usually so small and well-distributed that they do not detract from the diamond's sparkle and beauty. Some might be visible to the naked eye, especially in larger diamonds or those with fewer facets. However, most VS2 diamonds appear clean to the untrained eye.

Choosing a VS2 diamond offers you a beautiful, high-quality stone that is more affordable than higher clarity grades. It's a smart choice for anyone looking to maximize their engagement ring budget while still ensuring their diamond looks stunning and nearly flawless to the naked eye.

VS1 vs. VS2 Diamonds: The Key Differences

Although VS1 and VS2 diamonds both offer superior clarity and exceptional beauty, understanding the subtle differences can help you make the perfect choice for your diamond engagement rings. Let's explore the key factors that set these two clarity grades apart and see how each one can shine in its own unique way.

Keyzar Diamonds

Price

When it comes to differences in price, the clarity grade of a diamond plays a significant role, so VS1 and VS2 diamonds are set apart in terms of cost.

• VS1 Diamonds: Due to their higher clarity grade, VS1 diamonds come with a larger price tag. As an example, a 1 carat E VVS1 round brilliant diamond can cost up to 25% more than a VVS2 stone with similar qualities. This makes them ideal for buyers who prioritize near-perfect clarity and view their diamond as a long-term investment.
  
  
• VS2 Diamonds: VS2 diamonds provide an excellent balance between quality and cost. They offer a great option for those looking to maximize their budget without compromising too much on appearance, ensuring you still get a stunning diamond at a more accessible price.

Visibility and Size of Inclusions

The primary difference between VS1 and VS2 diamonds lies in the visibility and size of their inclusions.

• VS1 Diamonds: Inclusions in VS1 diamonds are extremely difficult to spot, even under 10x magnification. These diamonds are nearly flawless to the naked eye, ensuring a pristine appearance that’s ideal for an engagement ring, especially one with a larger stone.
  
  
• VS2 Diamonds: While VS2 clarity diamonds have inclusions that are slightly easier to detect under magnification, these internal and external imperfections are usually invisible to the naked eye. This makes VS2 an excellent option for those seeking high diamond quality without needing absolute perfection.

Diamond Size

The size of your diamond can influence how noticeable its inclusions are, affecting the choice between VS1 and VS2 clarity grades.

• Larger Diamonds: In larger diamonds, inclusions are more likely to be visible. Therefore, a VS1 diamond might be the safer choice to maintain an eye-clean appearance.
  
  
• Smaller Diamonds: With smaller stones, VS2 inclusions are typically not visible, making them a great value option for an eye-clean diamond. However, if you want your stone to look larger, a VS1 clarity grade can give the illusion of larger size due to greater diamond brilliance.

Diamond Shape

The shape of your diamond can have an impact on how visible any inclusions or blemishes may be.

• Step-Cut Diamonds: Diamonds with step cuts, like Asscher or emerald cuts, have larger, open facets that can highlight minute inclusions. For these diamond shapes, a VS1 clarity grade may be preferable to ensure a flawless look.
  
  
• Brilliant-Cut Diamonds: Brilliant cuts, such as round or princess, have superior light performance and can better hide inclusions, allowing you to choose a VS2 diamond with confidence.

Personal Preference and Budget

Ultimately, the choice between VS1 vs. VS2 diamonds depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you desire a clean diamond with a comparatively higher clarity grade and are willing to invest a bit more, a VS1 grade is an excellent choice. For those seeking a beautiful diamond that offers great value, a VS2 grade is a smart investment, providing beauty and brilliance without breaking the bank.

Conclusion: VS1 vs. VS2 Diamonds

When shopping for a diamond, clarity is just one of the four essential factors to consider. The 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—work together to determine a diamond's overall beauty and quality. Both VS1 and VS2 grade diamonds offer a fantastic balance of quality and value, making them popular choices for diamond engagement rings and other fine jewelry.

At the end of the day, the ideal diamond is the one that resonates with you, fits your budget, and sparkles with the brilliance of your unique story. Whether you choose a VS1 or VS2 diamond clarity grade, you’re selecting a gem that will shine beautifully and be cherished for a lifetime. Consider what matters most to you—whether it's the higher clarity and rarity of a VS1 or the excellent balance of quality and affordability of a VS2. Both options offer stunning diamonds that will make any piece of jewelry a treasured symbol of your love.