What Distinguishes a Very Very Slightly Included Diamond

The next diamond clarity grade on the list is the very very slightly included diamond. The diamond type that lies beneath the two premium options, is the very very slightly included diamond and is among the better-adopted premium clarity diamond grades.

When it comes to understanding what distinguishes very very slightly included diamonds what is important is how it differs from other diamond clarity grades that are closer to it. Particularly those which include the term ‘slightly’. Confusing names and particular features that distinguish very very slightly included diamonds are some of the points we will be engaging in this Education page.

Understanding Diamond Clarity Standards

Any discussion of diamond clarity grades must start with an overview of how diamonds are graded on this subject. Diamond clarity is one of the key factors that determine the quality of stones, making up one of the 4Cs of diamonds. That along with diamond colour, cut, and colour are key factors that those seeking authentic diamonds must look out for.

To understand diamond clarity grading one must understand the origins of diamonds. Natural diamonds form deep within the Earth’s surface, a process that takes tens to hundreds of millions of years. In this process, carbon atoms unite and hardened and give rise to a distinct form known as covalent bonds. This hardened form of carbon is a rarity in nature, and the crystallised form is what makes the diamond. However, this process is not perfect. 

Whilst diamonds are pure carbon in their atomic structure, in the process of development, other elements enter into the mix. Whilst trace minerals like nitrogen give rise to distinct hues, other disruptive entries often alter the internal consistency of the carbon-based gemstone. This is what causes inclusions, which interesting come in a number of forms.

Of the type of inclusions we will reserve for a dedicated Education on diamond clarity, for now, the reader must understand that inclusions divide into two areas: internal breaks, dents and inconsistencies, and external blemishes. When it comes to very very slightly included diamonds-which break down into two subcategories VVS1 and VVS2-an important consideration is that they are the first diamonds in the range of diamond grades that feature visible inclusions. That is internal inconsistencies and slight blemishes on the surface of the gemstone.

What Sets Very Very Slightly Included Diamonds

The first point to consider when it comes to the very very slightly included diamond ranges is the naming. Those who are new to diamond selection might be put off by this rather curious naming. The next main clarity grade on the list is the very slightly included diamonds, which also, interestingly breaks down into two subcategories: VS1 and VS2.

The key factor that differentiates very very slightly included diamonds is that they contain flaws on both insides (internally) of the stone as inclusions and on the surface of the stone. Unlike Flawless Diamonds (FL) which have no flaws either inside or on the surface of the stone; or Internally Flawless Diamonds (IF) which have no inclusions (internally) but feature blemishes on the surface.

With Very Very Slightly Included diamond we encounter the first in the grade of diamonds that feature inclusions. Tiny, minute inclusions which are virtually impossible to see with the naked eye. The type of inclusions that are found in very very slightly included diamonds are often so small that they are sometimes referred to as ‘feathers’: which is actually a technical name for extremely small inconsistencies on the diamond.

When it comes to identifying very very slightly included diamonds, the important point to consider that whatever internal or external dents or breaks, is that they require 10x magnification to be identified. So when it comes to picking a very very slightly included diamond for, let’s say your engagement ring, the choice is fundamentally a preference question. As the demand for flawless and internally flawless diamonds are premium options, which command premium prices, often comes down to perception. Where the names that is associated with them drive the purchasing decision.

Why Opt for Very Very Slightly Included Diamonds 

Simply very very slightly included diamonds are probably the most straightforward diamond clarity grade when it comes to the top choice of diamonds. Buyers seeking a top-quality diamond that hits the mark when it comes to clarity and is pretty much a clean-looking diamond for the naked even the inclusions that are present in it, take the form of minute needle-like imperfections that are dotted in various parts of the gemstone, having a minimal effect on diamond quality factors like brilliance and sparkle. Very very slightly included diamonds are a top choice for those seeking a premium grade diamond that when matched with a quality diamond in terms of colour, preferably in the D – H range, get a top quality stone.

Choosing between VVS1 and VVS2

An interesting question that diamonds and diamond jewellery buyers have in mind when it comes to picking a diamond with respect to high clarity, is the somewhat confusing naming scheme. What’s with the VVS1 and VVS2 or if you down a notch, VS1 and VS2? Well, the naming is such, whilst arguably not the best, exists to showcase how minute the differences between various diamond clarity levels are.

When it comes to the differences between very very slightly included diamonds 1 and very very slightly included diamonds 2 the dividing line is the number of inclusions and their greater visibility upon 10x magnification. And the inclusions themselves, primarily tend to be internal in character. With the VVS1 featuring fewer of these negatives and inclusions themselves often difficult to identify without expert help.

An important point when it comes to VVS1 and VVS2 diamond grades is that from this point onward, the inclusions in terms of type and visibility start to become slightly more pronounced. Particularly on the crown and pavilion areas of cut diamonds.

When it comes to pricing the differences between VVS1 and VVS2 are relatively small but significant, in relation to the carat of the diamond in question. For example, an excellent round cut 1.00-carat diamond in the D colour VVS1 grade will command a price in the high $ 16, 000 mark whilst a VVS2 diamond with all other factors being equal will fall somewhere in the $ 13, 000 mark. As the reader can see the differences are significant once you get to the 1.00-carat mark. However, the moment you go down by 0.25 carats the price points for these diamonds drop drastically to $5, 523.30 and $4,941.90 for the VVS1 and VVS2 respectively.