Diamond Clarity Chart 2026 Guide: What's the Difference Between VVS and VS?

A diamond clarity chart helps to explain why some diamonds are more expensive than others. If you have been seeing VVS and VS diamonds and have been wondering what they mean, you are not alone.

Fortunately, you don't have to be a diamond expert to know about clarity. After understanding the meaning of VVS, VS, SI, and other grades, it is easier to compare diamonds.

What Does Diamond Clarity Mean?

Diamond clarity is the number of small marks within or on a diamond. These are known as inclusions and blemishes. Some are so small that they can't be seen without magnification. There are 11 clarity grades in the GIA clarity system, ranging from Flawless to Included. Diamonds are graded by a trained grader using a magnifying glass of less than 10x.

So, if you come across a diamond chart clarity grade on a diamond listing, it is simply describing how clean the diamond appears when examined carefully.

What Is a Diamond Clarity Chart?

A Diamond Clarity Chart is a graph that shows the clarity of a diamond. A diamond clarity chart puts the different clarity grades in order. It will show you the position of VVS and VS on the whole scale.

The GIA scale is as follows:

• Flawless
• Internally Flawless
• VVS1
• VVS2
• VS1
• VS2
• SI1
• SI2
• I1
• I2
• I3

The higher grades have fewer or harder-to-see clarity characteristics. The lower on the scale, the easier it will be for a trained grader to find inclusions. It may seem like the higher the better. However, it is not just about choosing the highest letter when it comes to purchasing a diamond.

What is a VVS Diamond?

VVS is Very, Very Slightly Included. VVS diamonds have tiny inclusions that are very difficult to see under 10x magnification. VVS is split into two grades, VVS1 and VVS2. The higher of the two is VVS1. The inclusions are very hard to see. They are still extremely hard to see with VVS2.

But to your eyes, the difference might be difficult to spot. That's an important thing to remember when shopping. A high clarity grade does not necessarily mean that a diamond looks dramatically different from a lower clarity grade.

What is a VS Diamond?

Very Slightly Included (VS) indicates a very small portion of the product is included. It is similar to VVS in that it comes in two grades: VS1 and VS2. The inclusions in VS diamonds are more readily visible at 10x magnification. But this doesn't mean they are likely to be visible when you look at the diamond normally.

In fact, a lot of diamonds in the VS grade may appear very clear to the naked eye. GIA points out that the majority of diamonds sold in the retail market are in the VS and SI grades.

What's the difference between VVS and VS?

The difference is that the inclusions are easier to see under magnification in the main one. Inclusions in a VVS diamond are very hard to see with 10x magnification. Inclusions in a VS diamond are a little easier to see with a trained grader. However, when you're shopping, here's what matters.

The difference between the two may not be apparent to you. So it's not always necessary to pay a lot more for VVS. A well-cut VS diamond may still be bright, clean, and beautiful.

Which One is Better: VVS or VS?

There is no one right answer. VVS may be a beautiful option if you are looking for a very high clarity grade and are willing to pay more. VS might be a better option if you want to do more with your money.

The smart thing to do is to examine the diamond itself, and not the letters on the report. Even two diamonds of the same clarity grade may appear different due to the size, quantity, location, and type of inclusions.

Does Clarity Impact the Sparkle of Diamonds?

It can, but clarity is not the only thing that impacts sparkle. The cut of a diamond is one of the most important factors in how much light it returns to the eye. The 4Cs are cut, color, clarity, and carat weight, all of which contribute to the quality of a diamond. That is why you should not just take the highest clarity grade and disregard the rest. Beauty is all about balance in the case of a beautiful diamond.

What Is a Diamond Clarity and Color Chart?

A Diamond Clarity and Color Chart is a tool that helps you determine the clarity and color of a diamond and to compare two aspects of diamond quality. Clarity refers to the inclusions and blemishes. Color refers to the amount of color in a diamond.

Standard D-to-Z diamonds are graded from D (colorless) to Z (fancy color). The scale shifts towards Z, with increased yellow, brown, or grey color becoming visible. So, don't mix up clarity and color. They are measuring different quantities.

What is the clarity of color?

Now suppose you're comparing two diamonds. One is very clear but not as colored. The other one is a bit less clear, but is more colored. Which one do you think looks better? It depends on the diamonds, their cut, shape, setting, and what you see. That's why it's helpful to have a diamond clarity and color chart to study, but don't rely on it as a sole basis for buying a diamond. A competent jeweler will be able to see the big picture.

Final Thoughts

If you're in a dilemma between VVS and VS, a diamond clarity chart is a great place to begin comparing. VVS diamonds have extremely small inclusions that are very difficult to see under 10x magnification. Review the grading report, compare the actual diamonds, and select the best fit for your budget. Diamond shopping can be a lot less confusing with a little knowledge and the assistance of a trusted jeweler, such as Dejaun Jewelers.