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VVS2 diamonds refer to a type of diamond that can be found at the higher end of what is considered a good diamond clarity, display a higher than average level of clarity, making it one of the perfect gemstones to be used within jewelry, from necklaces to earrings to the all-important diamond engagement ring. 

So what exactly is a VVS2 diamond? What is diamond clarity? Are these types of diamonds worth purchasing? We’ll be covering all of this in our easy guide. 

What Are VVS2 Diamonds?

VVS2 diamonds are a rare type of diamond as they sit higher up on the clarity scale, as created by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). It categorizes diamonds into the following clarity grades:

  • Flawless (FL)
  • Internally Flawless (IF)
  • Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS) — VVS is divided into two grades, VVS2 and VVS2
  • Very Slightly Included (VS) - VS is also divided into two grades, VS1 and VS2
  • Slightly Included (SI) - SI is divided into SI1 and SI2
  • Included (I) - Included divides into I1, I2, and I3

What is Diamond Clarity?

We’ve mentioned the word ‘clarity’ a number of times now. Essentially, clarity refers to how ‘pure’ a diamond is, whether it contains the blemishes or ‘inclusions’ that may tarnish its ability to reflect light or be seen as eye-clean. 

For our guide to diamond clarity, click this link.

With the help of this grading scale, the GIA defines VVS2 clarity diamonds as having ‘Inclusions difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10× magnification’. Now, all diamonds contain some inclusions or blemishes, but what this means is that even if a VVS2 has them, they are not visible to the naked eye. In fact, put a VVS2 against and Internally Flawless diamonds and you wouldn’t be able to tell the difference based on clarity alone. 

Why are VVS2 Diamonds Popular?

VVS2 diamonds are incredibly popular because of their quality and accessibility. If you find an ideal cut VVS2 diamond with a high color grade (such as D to F), then you’re getting a very high-quality stone for much less then what a Flawless diamond would cost. 

These can be the same carat weight, the same cut, the same color—virtually indistinguishable—and yet, the VVS2 will cost less. 

For example, look at these two diamonds offered by Blue Nile. One is 1.01 carat and the other 1.00 carat—a minuscule difference in weight. They are both ideal cut and at the top end of the color scale (D). However, the first is priced at $19,427, and the second at $7,498. Why is this?

The first is a Flawless clarity diamond, which is the reason for the much higher cost. The VVS2, despite having the same carat weight, the same color, and the same quality of cut, is $11,929 less expensive.

For those looking for a high-quality diamond without the associated price tag, VVS2 diamonds are undeniably appealing. 

Where To Buy VVS2 Diamonds

For those immediately interested in buying a VVS2 diamond, you may wonder where you can purchase them from. Fortunately, there are many online and physical retailers ready for you to do business with.

However, it’s worth knowing a few things first. To start, you will be able to find the best prices for VVS2 diamonds by comparing a range of online retailers. I would recommend starting to look on trusted, experienced retail sites such as Blue Nile, James Allen and Whiteflash. 

Trust is an important factor within all of your considerations regarding retailers. A good rule of thumb to go buy is how much information is available pertaining to a specific diamond on the site. Trustworthy diamond retailers will include:

The very best online retailers will have industry experts who can physically inspect the diamond you’re interested in upon request within a consultation with you. 

How to Choose the Right VVS2 Diamond

If you’re truly interested in purchasing a VVS2 clarity diamond, there are some things you must know and consider. 

The first thing to look for when searching for a VVS2 diamond (or any diamond for that matter) is to make sure your choice is ‘eye-clean’. This means it contains no inclusions that can be seen by the eye. Diamonds like these can be found in any grade from SI1 and up. If an online retailer doesn’t offer high-quality images of the diamond, you’ll have no way to make sure it is eye-clean. Fortunately, VVS2 diamonds will always be eye-clean. 

Whiteflash are particularly good at displaying the qualities and certifications of a diamond. For example, look at this 0.75 ct H VVS2 Round Cut Loose Diamond. Alongside high definition images, there is also diamond details that state this diamond is ‘eye-clean’ as well as certification to prove those details.

Also, remember that VVS2 clarity means the diamond does contain inclusions. In a smaller diamond, such as a 0.700ct or 1.5ct, these inclusions won’t be seen. However, in larger diamonds, inclusions are easier to spot. This means that you will necessarily need to increase the clarity of the diamond, up to either IF or F—which necessitates an increase in price. 

We must also mention that round cut diamonds are one of the best cut types for making inclusions less visible. Emerald and Asscher, with their step-cut facets and larger tables, are more likely to reveal inclusions. 

When searching for a diamond, keep these things in mind:

  • Always buy from a trusted retailer with years of verifiable industry experience.
  • Always check the certifications of the diamond that you are purchasing.
  • Look for high-quality images and videos.
  • Peruse all documentation and diagnostics that have been included in the diamond’s description.

VVS2 Clarity Diamonds: Our Conclusions

If you’re looking for some of the best diamonds on the market, VVS2 clarity diamonds are a fantastic choice. Not only are you getting the opportunity to purchase a stunning diamond, but you’re also saving yourself a lot of money. However, if you do care about clarity grading, we’d recommend a VVS1 or above. 

Now, if you’re looking for examples, we would recommend the A CUT ABOVE® Collection Series by Whiteflash. These are truly the best of the best when it comes to light performance and have the highest cut, color, clarity and specifications available.