VVS vs VS1 Diamonds: Which Clarity Grade Offers the Best Value?
In the actual world of VVS vs VS1 diamonds, clarity is the deciding factor. VVS stands for “Very Very Slightly Included,” while VS1 means “Very Slightly Included.” Both grades offer high clarity, but VVS diamonds contain fewer and smaller inclusions, visible only under extreme magnification. This tiny difference is what makes the difference between VVS and VS1 significant for discerning buyers.
Moreover, the subtle clarity improvement in VVS vs VS1 diamonds often affects brilliance and rarity. At Diamonds by Raymond Lee, our experts explain that customers seeking statement jewelry or investment pieces often lean toward VVS diamonds due to their near-perfection. Meanwhile, VS1 diamonds remain beautiful and budget-friendly, still offering incredible sparkle without the premium price tag. To better understand these clarity grades, please contact us or visit our homepage for the latest arrivals.
Why Are VVS Diamonds More Expensive Than VS1?
The answer comes down to rarity and craftsmanship. VVS diamonds are harder to source naturally because so few diamonds form without noticeable inclusions. This rarity means that VVS diamond price typically exceeds VS1 diamond price, sometimes by as much as 10–25%. Jewelers also invest extra care in cutting and polishing VVS stones to protect clarity, adding to production costs. For buyers comparing VVS vs VS1 diamonds, these hidden factors explain why VVS diamonds command a premium.
Additionally, VVS diamonds often serve as centerpieces in high-end designs or heirloom jewelry, making them highly appealing to collectors and investors. Brands like Tiffany and Cartier frequently feature VVS stones in their most exclusive collections. Learn more about Tiffany clarity guide or Cartier’s diamond guide. Meanwhile, at Diamonds by Raymond Lee, we help clients determine if the price differences between VVS and VS1 align with their budget and vision. Many find VS1 clarity to be a wise choice for everyday pieces, while VVS remains ideal for those seeking near-perfection. With expert guidance, choosing between VVS vs VS1 diamonds becomes easier than ever.
What Is the VVS vs VS1 Price Difference?
On average, VVS diamonds cost about 10–25% more than VS1 diamonds of the same cut, color, and carat weight. This difference can translate to hundreds or thousands of dollars, depending on stone size and shape. While a VVS diamond price reflects extreme rarity, a VS1 diamond price often offers similar visual beauty for a lower cost. Buyers who prioritize clarity sometimes find the premium worth it, especially for engagement rings or collector pieces.
However, the VVS vs VS1 price gap isn’t uniform. Market demand, diamond shape, and certification can all impact the price. For example, round VVS diamonds might cost more because they’re popular, while fancy shapes like pear or cushion may offer better value. At Diamonds by Raymond Lee, we help clients compare stones side by side, making sense of numbers and ensuring the choice aligns with their needs. For market trends, Rapaport also offers helpful data. Whether you choose VVS or VS1, the ideal diamond strikes a balance between clarity, cut, carat, and budget.
Does VVS vs VS1 Clarity Really Matter to the Eye?
To most people, the answer is no. Both appear eye-clean, meaning inclusions aren’t visible without magnification. However, under 10x magnification, the difference between VVS vs VS1 becomes clear. VVS diamonds have fewer and smaller inclusions, which some collectors feel enhances brilliance. This subtle edge partly explains why VVS diamonds are more expensive.
For everyday buyers, VS1 diamond price often delivers nearly identical beauty for less. However, for those who value rarity, status, or potential resale value, VVS diamonds remain an appealing option. At Diamonds by Raymond Lee, we display high-resolution images, allowing clients to decide what matters most. Balancing clarity with cut, carat, and budget ensures your VVS vs VS1 diamond choice fits both your lifestyle and style.
Do VVS vs VS1 Diamonds Really Hold Different Investment Value?
Generally, yes. VVS diamonds are naturally rarer because so few stones form with such minimal inclusions. This rarity means that over time, especially for larger carat weights, VVS diamonds can maintain slightly better resale value. Collectors and luxury buyers also tend to favor VVS clarity, viewing it as a symbol of near-perfection, which reinforces its premium status in the market. Paired with recognized certifications and reputable brands, VVS clarity can help a diamond maintain its appeal and value for decades to come.
Still, the vs1 diamond price makes it a practical option for many buyers, especially if resale isn’t the primary goal. For people buying an engagement ring or jewelry they plan to keep and wear daily, VS1 diamonds deliver exceptional beauty and quality at a friendlier price. When thinking about investment, it’s also essential to consider other factors beyond clarity, such as diamond shape, color grade, cut quality, and overall market trends. Together, these elements can matter as much or sometimes more than clarity alone when it comes to long-term value. At Diamonds by Raymond Lee, we help you compare VVS vs VS1 diamonds side by side, allowing you to weigh sparkle, cost, and sentiment. Whether you want everyday brilliance or a flawless statement piece, understanding clarity grades turns shopping into an informed investment.
When Should You Choose VVS Diamonds Over VS1?
In comparison to VVS vs VS1 diamonds, VVS diamonds are especially ideal for high-profile or heirloom pieces where buyers want the cleanest, rarest gems possible. If you’re purchasing an engagement ring meant to be passed down, a collector’s item, or want a diamond that represents the absolute best in clarity, the rarity of VVS diamonds offers unmatched prestige. They’re also attractive for milestone gifts, luxury watches, or statement pendants, where buyers place value on perfection and exclusivity.
On the other hand, VS1 diamond price offers an appealing balance of clarity and savings, particularly for those focused on daily wear or a slightly larger stone within the same budget. Since VS1 inclusions are rarely visible without magnification, most people won’t notice the difference. Choosing between VVS vs VS1 diamonds ultimately comes down to what matters most to you: a rare, almost flawless piece that can carry higher long-term value, or a beautiful diamond that looks equally stunning to the naked eye while keeping the budget in check. Being clear on your purpose and priorities helps turn your choice into a meaningful investment you’ll enjoy for years.
Clarity Standards and Data from the GIA Grading System
| Feature | VVS Diamonds (VVS1 & VVS2) | VS1 Diamonds |
| Clarity Definition | Very, very slight inclusions are difficult to see under 10× magnification | Very slight inclusions are difficult to see under 10× magnification |
| Average Market Price per Carat* | $8,500 – $12,000 (1-carat, round, G–H color) | $6,800 – $10,000 (1-carat, round, G–H color) |
| Rarity in Natural Diamonds | Represent ≈ 8–10% of gem-quality diamonds | Represent ≈ 15–18% of gem-quality diamonds |
| Visibility of Inclusions | Usually invisible even under magnification; extremely hard to detect | Inclusions are rarely visible under magnification and are invisible to the naked eye |
| Preferred Use | Luxury statement pieces, heirlooms, high-collectible diamonds | Engagement rings, everyday fine jewelry |
| Resale & Collector Demand | Higher demand due to rarity and perceived perfection | Strong demand; excellent balance of clarity and value |
Read GIA’s full article to have a better understanding.
Discover VVS vs VS1 Diamonds at Diamonds by Raymond Lee
Are VVS diamonds really worth the higher price? Or can VS1 diamonds give you the same flawless look for less? These are the questions many buyers face when comparing VVS vs VS1 diamonds, and it’s easy to feel stuck. With VVS clarity found in only about 8–10% of gem-quality diamonds, rarity alone pushes the VVS diamond price 10–25% higher than the VS1 diamond price. Yet, both grades look eye-clean in person, leaving many wondering if the difference truly matters.
At Diamonds by Raymond Lee, we make this choice easier. Our expert team helps you move beyond the certificate to see how clarity impacts brilliance, long-term value, and personal style. Whether you’re drawn to the prestige of VVS or the smart value of VS1, every diamond in our Boca Raton showroom and online store is hand-selected and certified. Still deciding? Call us at (561) 750 -6744 or visit our Boca Raton showroom. Discover clarity that fits your life and your budget.
FAQs
What is the most significant difference between VVS and VS1 diamonds?
The most significant difference between VVS vs VS1 diamonds lies in clarity when viewed under 10× magnification. Specifically, VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) diamonds have inclusions so tiny they’re almost impossible to detect, making them far rarer. By contrast, VS1 (Very Slightly Included) diamonds have slightly larger or a few more inclusions, though still invisible to the naked eye. Importantly, both grades typically look flawless to most people. However, for collectors who value rarity and near-perfect grading reports, the difference between VVS and VS1 can feel quite significant, justifying the higher price of a VVS diamond.
Why are VVS diamonds more expensive than VS1?
VVS diamonds make up only about 8–10% of gem-quality stones, whereas VS1 diamonds are more common at around 15–18%. Therefore, rarity alone increases demand and drives the VVS diamond price roughly 10–25% higher than that of the VS1 diamond. Moreover, diamond cutters must use extra care to minimize inclusions, which adds to production costs. Additionally, VVS clarity carries a prestige that attracts collectors and luxury buyers. On the other hand, many find VS1 diamonds look equally beautiful but cost less, offering an appealing blend of value and brilliance.
Does clarity affect the investment value of a diamond?
Yes, clarity can influence resale value, especially at higher grades like VVS. Since VVS diamonds are harder to find, they can hold or slightly increase in value over time, particularly in larger carat sizes. Moreover, collectors favor VVS for its prestige and rarity. However, clarity alone doesn’t guarantee future value. Factors such as cut, color, carat, brand reputation, and certification are equally important. Ultimately, some buyers opt for a VS1 diamond with better color or cut instead, as this can sometimes add even more resale value.
Is a VVS diamond always a more intelligent choice than VS1?
Not always. While VVS diamonds certainly offer unmatched rarity and status, the VS1 diamond price is usually lower, yet still delivers stunning, eye-clean beauty. Moreover, the savings from choosing VS1 allow buyers to opt for a higher carat weight or a better cut, which enhances sparkle more than the clarity grade alone. On the other hand, those who value perfection, collectability, or plan to pass down a piece as an heirloom often see VVS as worth the premium. Ultimately, it depends on whether rarity or practical value is more important to you.
Why does rarity impact the price so much?
Simply put, rarity shapes demand. Since only a small fraction of diamonds qualify as VVS, buyers seeking perfection compete for fewer stones. Additionally, luxury brands and collectors contribute to this demand, which keeps the price of VVS diamonds consistently higher. In contrast, VS1 diamonds are easier to find yet remain beautiful, which explains why VS1 diamond prices are more budget-friendly. Importantly, rarity isn’t just about looks; it’s about owning something few people ever can. This exclusivity is what many feel truly justifies the premium. To learn more, visit our blog on How to Understand the Worth of Your Jewelry?
Should first-time buyers choose VVS or VS1 diamonds?
For first-time buyers, it really depends on priorities. VVS diamonds offer unmatched rarity and long-term prestige, which can feel reassuring as an investment. However, the VS1 diamond price is often significantly lower, allowing buyers to allocate that difference towards a larger carat size, better color, or superior cut, all of which dramatically enhance visual beauty. Moreover, most people can’t spot the clarity difference without magnification. Ultimately, if you value absolute perfection and heirloom appeal, VVS makes sense, but if you want the best visible sparkle for your budget, VS1 is usually the smarter starting point.
