Clarity

What are VVS2 Clarity Diamonds?

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Summary
  • VVS2 diamonds have extremely tiny inclusions that are very hard to spot under 10x magnification.
  • They offer near-flawless clarity at a more affordable price than VVS1 or Flawless.
  • Ideal for buyers seeking pristine appearance without paying a huge premium.
  • The inclusions in VVS2 are typically located at the edges or are microscopic.

Rian here - we’ve written these clarity grade articles for you to get the nitty gritty on each diamond clarity grade. You can also get the big picture: view our page on the diamond clarity scale or read more posts in diamonds 101 about specific diamond clarity grades. Enjoy!

The Details About VVS2 Clarity Diamonds

Here we are at level two of the ‘very, very slightly included’ bracket. ‘VVS2’ clarity grade diamonds are the ‘fun’ friend of the ‘VVS1’s.

‘VVS2’ diamonds will not have one large inclusion, but will rather have a number of ‘VVS1’ quality inclusions like pinpoints and needles. The other main difference is that ‘VVS2’ stones will likely have a slightly more noticeable inclusion when looking at the face (top) of the diamond.

That said, these inclusions are still only visible under 10x magnification! Bottom line, a ‘VVS2’ diamond (just like its better-behaved friend ‘VVS1’) is still absolutely eye-clean.

VVS2 Diamond Drawbacks

The main problem for me when it comes to ‘VVS2’ is the price. People tend to make a mistake when it comes to this clarity in particular, choosing it over lower grades such a ‘VS1’ because they think they’re getting a much better diamond. It’s down to the psychology of the quality bands – going for a ‘very, very slightly included’ stone must be better than going for a ‘very slightly included’ one, right?

Wrong. There will be no naked-eye difference between a ‘VVS2’ and a ‘VS1’ for example, even though there might well be more inclusions in more noticeable places with the lower graded stone. Unfortunately, there will be a difference in price between those two, as retailers will count on you getting all fancy and opting for the better sounding grade.

VVS1 Clarity Diamonds

VS1 Clarity Diamonds

VVS2 Clarity Diamond FAQs

What does “VVS2” clarity mean in a diamond?

The grade “VVS2” stands for Very, Very Slightly Included 2. It means the diamond has extremely minor inclusions that are very difficult to spot even under 10× magnification — in practical terms, the stone appears flawless to the naked eye.

Why might someone choose a VVS2 clarity diamond?

A VVS2 clarity diamond offers near-flawless appearance with minimal visible imperfections, yet at a somewhat more accessible cost than the higher clarity grades. For buyers looking for stunning visual quality without going to the highest premium, VVS2 is a strong option.

What should you check when considering a VVS2 diamond?

Even though VVS2 diamonds are extremely clean, it’s still worth looking at where the inclusions are placed, how many there are, and whether any might affect sparkle or face-up appearance. Reviewing high-quality images or videos can help verify you’re getting the best value.

Is there a visible difference between VVS2 and higher clarity grades in everyday wear?

In most cases, no — a well-cut VVS2 diamond will look identical to those rated VVS1 or even higher grades when viewed without magnification. That means paying much more for the next grade up may not be worthwhile unless you want the utmost in precision or are buying a very large stone.
Dr. Rian Mulcahy
Dr. Rian Mulcahy
Rian is officially a Diamond PhD - just ping us if you’d like to read her fascinating 200-page thesis, titled Facets of Value: An Investigation into the Formation of Worth in the Diamond Market. She has consulted various firms all along the pipeline, from the rough diamond market to the recycled diamond industry. She holds an MA in Globalisation and Development from University College Cork and a PhD in the Sociology of Diamond Valuation from the London School of Economics.