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VS1 vs VS2 Diamond Clarity: Which Is Better & What Should You Buy?

GDC TEAM | 22 May 2026 | < 1 mins
VS1 vs VS2 Diamond Clarity: Which Is Better & What Should You Buy?

Wondering whether VS1 diamond is better or VS2 clarity grade? While there’s little difference in the two types of diamond clarity grades, you can decide between the two based on various other factors.

In this blog, you will learn VS1 vs VS2 diamond quality characteristics, which is better, how do these two compare to others on the clarity scale, and which one should you buy.

What does VS diamond clarity mean?

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamond clarity on the scale from Flawless (FL) to Included. VS, which means Very Slightly Included, is in the middle of the scale. VS diamonds have inclusions that are minor and difficult to see under magnification.

Here’s the GIA diamond clarity grading scale:

Source

Now let’s understand the VS1 vs VS2 diamond differences and what each type of diamond means.

What does VS1 diamond clarity mean?

VS1 means Very Slightly Included 1. It is the higher of the two VS grades – VS1 and VS2. A VS1 diamond has inclusions that are difficult to locate even under magnification. VS1 clarity grade diamonds are ideal for customers who want near-perfect clarity. This clarity grade is suitable for step-cut shapes, such as emerald and Asscher, as these shapes show inclusions easily.

What does VS2 diamond clarity mean?

VS2 means Very Slightly Included 2. It is a step below VS1 on the clarity scale. It has minor inclusions but are slightly easier to spot under magnification. VS2 diamond quality offers the best value in the VS range with a lower price tag and near-identical appearance. VS2 diamonds are suitable for round brilliant cuts as these hide inclusions better.

VS1 vs VS2 diamond quality: differences

 

Factor

VS1 diamond

VS2 diamond

Inclusion under 10x magnification

Difficult to see

Noticeable but minor

Price

Higher than VS2 diamond

Lower than VS1 diamond

Best diamond shapes

All shapes, specifically step cuts

Round brilliant, cushion, oval

Best for

Buyers wanting maximum clarity confidence

Value-conscious shoppers, larger carats

Lab-grown availability

Widely available

Widely available

Suitable for emerald and asscher cut

Yes, suitable for step cuts

Evaluate based on other factors

Do inclusions affect brilliance

No

No

VS1 vs VS2 diamonds: Factors to consider when buying these diamonds

What are the factors to consider when buying VS1 diamonds?

Choose VS1 diamonds if:

  • You want a step-cut diamond (emerald, Asscher, baguette). These shapes have large, open facets that reveal inclusions more easily

Also Read – What Are Diamond Facets And Meaning

  • You want a lab diamond that is 2 carats or larger, as inclusions are more visible in bigger diamonds

  • You want peace of mind without examining each stone individually

  • Your budget is flexible and clarity confidence matters most to you

What are the factors to consider when buying VS2 diamonds?

Choose VS2 quality diamonds if:

  • You are buying a round brilliant cut lab diamond, as its 58 facets naturally hide inclusions

  • You want to maximize value. VS2 diamond quality gives the same appearance at a lower price

  • You’d rather spend more on cut quality or carat weight

  • You’re comfortable reviewing the actual stone or grading report before purchase

Are VS1 diamonds worth it?

Yes, buying VS1 diamonds is worth it for many reasons. Here are some:

  • VVS diamonds have inclusions that are extremely difficult to see under magnification. Visually, they are identical to VS, but the price is higher. Whether you buy VVS1/ VVS2 or VS diamonds, it does not make any visual difference.

  • Next, let’s explore how VS diamonds score against SI1 and SI2 diamonds. SI diamonds can be eye clean but less reliable. Each SI diamond has to be assessed individually, and the risk is higher.

  • What about VS1 vs VS2 diamonds? These two diamond grades are clean looking and come at a fair price. The grade is reliable across all shapes and sizes.

Wrapping up: VS1 vs VS2 diamond quality – which is better?

Now that you know the difference between VS1 and VS2 diamonds, and also know how these two grades compare to other diamond clarity grades, such as VVS and SI, which grade you want to purchase between VS1 and VS2 diamonds depends on your preference.

Whether you choose VS1 or VS2 grade, you’ll be buying a clean diamond with excellent clarity. So go for the clarity grade that matches your budget and visual aesthetics. If you’re looking to explore VS diamonds, see the latest collection by Grown Diamond Corporation.

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FAQs

No. In most cases, VS1 and VS2 diamonds look identical to the naked eye and require magnification. The difference only becomes apparent under a 10× loupe.

In approximately 95% of VS2 diamonds, no inclusions are visible without magnification. Only in rare cases, typically larger diamonds or step-cut diamonds, one can see faint inclusions.

VS1 diamonds typically cost more than comparable VS2 diamonds of the same carat weight, color, and cut. For lab grown diamonds, this difference tends to be slightly smaller.

VS2 diamond clarity is the best value for lab grown diamonds, as the price gap between VS1 and VS2 is smaller and both grades are reliably eye-clean. Many experts recommend VS2 for lab grown rounds and VS1 for lab grown step cuts.

Yes, VS1 is an excellent clarity grade for any engagement rings. It offers a clean, beautiful diamond with no visible flaws, and pairs well with any cut or shape.

VS2 and SI1 are among the most popular clarity grades purchased, as they offer the best balance of visual quality and price. VS2 diamond is particularly recommended for buyers who want reliability without overpaying.

Yes, VS1 diamond clarity is good if you want a near clean diamond at a competitive price.
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