VVS1 Diamond Clarity: Is It Worth the Sacrifice?

When looking at diamond clarity, there are two main categories: VS1 and VVS1. Both diamonds have high clarity but differ in how they are cut and where the flaws lie.

These differences might impact the price, so it's important to know what you're paying for when buying either of these grades of diamond clarity. In this complete VVS1 diamond clarity buying guide, we'll cover everything you need to know about this grade of diamond quality and whether it's worth the sacrifice in the other grading categories.

VVS1 Diamond Clarity: Is It Worth the Sacrifice?

What is VVS1

VVS1 diamonds have the highest clarity grade given by the GIA, meaning they have very small inclusions that can only be seen under 10x magnification.

This makes VVS1 diamonds eye-clean, so the naked eye can't see blemishes and inclusions. However, this high clarity comes at a price. VVS1 diamonds are often 20-40% more expensive than VS2 diamonds, which have similar clarity when viewed from a distance. So, is VVS1 worth the extra cost?

Suppose you're looking for a diamond with exceptional sparkle and fire but can't afford to go above 12k. In that case, VVS1 is not a compromise worth making. In most cases, diamonds with a lower clarity grade will look just as good as those with VVS1.

Suppose you're set on a diamond between 1ct and 1.50ct. In that case, plenty of VS2 diamonds have fire and brilliance comparable to VVS1 diamonds—and at much more affordable prices! Alternatively, purchasing an SI1 or a VS2 diamond makes much more sense if your budget allows it. These two grades often have stunning clarity that is unmatched by most VVS1s.

What is VVS1 Diamond Price

VVS1 diamonds are some of the rarest and most sought-after diamonds on the market. But what is the VVS1 diamond price? Like any diamond, the price of a VVS1 diamond depends on the Cut, Color, Shape and Carat Weight.

The Cut of a diamond determines its symmetry, brightness and fire. The Color of a diamond is judged on a scale from D (no hue) to Z (a yellow-hued diamond). The Shape of a diamond is usually one of six shapes: round, marquise, oval, pear, heart or princess. Finally, Carat Weight is how a diamond is measured and the stone's size.

So, let's say you have a 1.5-carat diamond with a diamond colour of H (very light yellow) and an oval cut. The price of that diamond would fall between $9000-$17000 depending on where you looked for it. What if your diamond wasn't VVS1 and was just VS2 instead?

How much cheaper could you buy that same 1.5ct stone for? Let's say we lowered our requirements by one grade to VS2 clarity. Would it be worth sacrificing VVS1 for VS2 in terms of price differential?

(What would be your answer here?)

So let's take that same diamond and lower it to a VS2. The price difference between VVS1 and VS2 is $3500. Let's say we want to know what choices we could make regarding carat weight, cut, Color and shape as well as how each would affect our price differential.

Where you can find a VVS1 Diamond

You can find a VVS1 diamond at most jewellers, depending on inventory and the diamond shape you're looking for. However, keep in mind that buying a diamond is a zero-sum game.

If you decide to pay for a VVS1 clarity grade, you may be sacrificing something far more important. In this case, you may be sacrificing on carat weight. Say you have to keep that same 1.50ct diamond under 12k.

You can find one like this from the Blue Nile, but this diamond has a far more fatal flaw. It's missing the fluorescence property, which means it will appear duller than diamonds with this property.

Real-Life Examples of Clarity Grade Flaws

VVS1 clarity is the highest clarity grade a diamond can receive, meaning it is virtually free of blemishes and inclusions. However, these rare diamonds often come with a hefty price tag. But is VVS1 clarity worth the sacrifice? Let's take a look at some real-life examples.

A Better Way To Grade Clarity

When it comes to diamonds, clarity is often thought of as one of the Four Cs. And while it's true that clarity is an important factor in determining a diamond's value, it's not the be-all, end-all. Some other factors are just as important, if not more so.

So before you start shopping for diamonds, it's important to understand all the ins and outs of clarity grading.

Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know about diamond clarity grading:

-The GIA (Gemological Institute of America) is the authority on diamond grading, and most jewellers use their standards.

Avoiding the Zero Sum Game

Buying a diamond is often seen as a zero-sum game, where you must sacrifice one quality for another. However, it doesn't have to be this way. You can find a balance between different qualities by researching and knowing what to look for.

For example, if you're looking for a 1.50ct diamond under 12k, you can find one with good clarity from the Blue Nile. However, this diamond has a far more fatal flaw. By understanding the different qualities of diamonds, you can avoid the zero-sum game and find a balance that works for you.

About Author

My Name is Mohammad Aaqib the founder of Pandorabracelet.co.uk

I am a Lawyer by profession but Blogger by passion.

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In the Blogging journey, you may fail at one point but I am here to hang you around me until you are willing to tie with me.