VVS1 and VVS2 are both Very, Very Slightly Included clarity grades. Under the traditional clarity scale used on current IGI lab-grown diamond reports, VVS characteristics are difficult to see at 10× magnification. VVS1 is the higher grade because its minute characteristics are more difficult for a trained grader to locate than those in VVS2.
For many finished rings, the difference is a grading distinction rather than an obvious unaided-eye difference. The exact inclusion type, position, relief, number, diamond size, and facet pattern still matter.
How is diamond clarity evaluated?
The GIA clarity guide explains that clarity grading considers the size, nature, position, color or relief, and quantity of characteristics visible under 10× magnification. The traditional scale contains 11 grades from Flawless through Included.
- VVS1 and VVS2: inclusions are difficult for a skilled grader to see at 10×.
- VS1 and VS2: inclusions are minor and range from difficult to somewhat easy for a skilled grader to see at 10×.
- SI and I grades: characteristics become more noticeable and may affect transparency or appearance, depending on the stone.
Clarity is not simply a count of inclusions. A small characteristic beneath the table may be assessed differently from one near the girdle or hidden among reflective facets.
What does VVS1 mean?
VVS1 is the higher of the two VVS grades. It indicates that minute clarity characteristics are exceptionally difficult for a skilled grader to locate under 10× magnification.
VVS1 may suit a buyer who wants a high documented clarity specification, is choosing a large center stone, or is considering a broad-faceted cut that makes the interior easier to inspect. VVS1 does not mean flawless; Flawless and Internally Flawless are separate categories above VVS.
What does VVS2 mean?
VVS2 remains a very high clarity grade. Minute characteristics are still difficult for a trained grader to see at 10×, but they are relatively more detectable than in VVS1.
A VVS2 diamond may look indistinguishable from VVS1 to the unaided eye in a ring. That observation is not a guarantee for every stone. Review the exact diamond in high-resolution video and inspect the report's clarity plot, comments, or identification features when provided.
Can you see VVS inclusions without magnification?
In many cases, VVS inclusions are not visible to the unaided eye at normal viewing distance. However, “eye-clean” is not a laboratory grade and can vary with distance, lighting, eyesight, stone size, shape, and seller definition.
For a large center stone or a step cut with broad facets, ask for face-up video under neutral light, side and rotating views, magnified imagery when available, the exact report, and written confirmation that the report belongs to that stone.
Does diamond shape affect how clarity looks?
Shape does not change the assigned grade, but facet structure affects how readily the eye can inspect the interior.
Step cuts
Emerald and Asscher cuts have broad linear facets and a hall-of-mirrors pattern. Their open appearance can make some characteristics easier to notice.
Brilliant-style fancy shapes
Oval, pear, marquise, radiant, and cushion diamonds use more fragmented reflective patterns. Those facets may visually blend some small characteristics, although every stone remains individual.
Large diamonds
As face-up area increases, there is more diamond to inspect. The grade remains the grade, but position and visibility should be reviewed at the exact size being purchased.
Does higher clarity mean more sparkle?
Not automatically. Severe inclusions in lower grades can affect transparency, but within the VVS range, visible performance is often influenced more directly by facet design, proportions, polish, symmetry, contrast, lighting, and cleanliness.
A VVS1 diamond with weak proportions is not guaranteed to look livelier than a well-proportioned VVS2 diamond. Compare the full quality profile.
VVS1 vs. VVS2: quick comparison
| Question | VVS1 | VVS2 |
|---|---|---|
| Category | Very, Very Slightly Included | Very, Very Slightly Included |
| Relative position | Higher VVS grade | Lower VVS grade |
| At 10× | Characteristics exceptionally difficult to locate | Characteristics still difficult, relatively more detectable |
| Unaided-eye appearance | Commonly no visible inclusions; inspect the exact stone | Commonly no visible inclusions; inspect the exact stone |
| Typical priority | Highest documented VVS specification | High clarity with a potentially different price/specification balance |
This table is general education and does not replace assessment of an individual diamond and report.
Does the laboratory matter?
Yes. Read the grade together with the laboratory, report number, report date, and exact document.
IGI's lab-grown diamond report information lists VVS1–VVS2 in its clarity scale and explains that clarity is assessed at 10× magnification. IGI reports can also identify laboratory-grown origin and document shape, measurements, and other characteristics.
GIA changed its D-to-Z lab-grown diamond service on October 1, 2025. Its current lab-grown diamond quality assessment uses Premium and Standard classifications based on an overall assessment rather than reporting VVS1 or VVS2 as the final current classification. If a seller states VVS1 or VVS2, confirm which laboratory and report support that grade; do not assign the term to a current GIA D-to-Z lab-grown assessment without evidence.
What should you inspect beyond clarity?
- clear disclosure of laboratory-grown origin;
- verification of the report number through the issuing laboratory;
- shape, dimensions, and face-up outline;
- exact color grade or assessment;
- polish, symmetry, and cut information where provided;
- clarity plot, comments, or identification features;
- face-up and rotating video of the exact diamond; and
- the real setting configuration, metal, and workmanship.
For a step-by-step verification process, continue with How to Read and Verify an IGI Lab-Grown Diamond Report Online.
Is VVS1 worth more than VVS2?
VVS1 is a higher clarity specification, but price and value depend on the entire diamond and transaction: carat weight, color, shape, dimensions, cut, finish, origin, documentation, market conditions, and seller terms.
A buyer who wants the highest VVS grade on an applicable report may prefer VVS1. Someone prioritizing a particular outline, size, or setting may find a well-chosen VVS2 more aligned with the finished design. Neither decision should be made from clarity alone.
The MISSISSI view
MISSISSI Fine Jewelry treats clarity as one part of a larger composition. High clarity is most meaningful when the stone's outline, faceting, proportions, finish, color, and setting are considered together.
Before approving a made-to-order ring, match the specific report to the center diamond and record the agreed origin, shape, carat weight, color or assessment, clarity or assessment, measurements, metal, and setting details in the final order.
Frequently asked questions
Is VVS1 better than VVS2?
VVS1 is the higher clarity grade, but “better” depends on the complete stone, price, design, and buyer priorities. Both are high clarity grades.
Is VVS2 eye-clean?
Many VVS2 diamonds show no inclusions to the unaided eye at normal viewing distance, but “eye-clean” is not a standardized laboratory grade. Inspect the exact diamond.
Is VVS the same as flawless?
No. Flawless and Internally Flawless are separate grades above VVS1 and VVS2.
Does VVS1 sparkle more than VVS2?
Not automatically. Facet design, proportions, polish, symmetry, cleanliness, and lighting strongly affect visible performance.
Is VVS clarity more important for emerald cuts?
Step cuts have broad facets that can make the interior easier to inspect, so many buyers give clarity additional attention. The exact characteristic position and stone still matter.
Do current GIA D-to-Z lab-grown diamond assessments show VVS1 or VVS2?
No. GIA's current D-to-Z laboratory-grown diamond service uses Premium and Standard classifications. Verify the laboratory and date supporting any VVS1 or VVS2 statement.