February 04, 2025

VVS vs SI Diamonds: Which is Right for You?

When buying a diamond, clarity is one of the most crucial factors to consider. It affects the gemstone’s brilliance, value, and overall appearance. Two of the most commonly compared diamond clarity grades are VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) and SI (Slightly Included). Understanding the differences between VVS vs SI diamonds can help you make an informed decision when choosing a diamond for an engagement ring, pendant, or any other fine jewelry piece.

This blog will provide a comprehensive guide to VVS and SI diamonds, covering their clarity, pricing, pros and cons, how they appear to the naked eye, and which one offers the best value.

Understanding Diamond Clarity

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of internal or external imperfections, also called inclusions and blemishes. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) developed the standard clarity grading scale, which classifies diamonds based on the number, size, and visibility of imperfections.

GIA Diamond Clarity Scale:

Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification.
Internally Flawless (IF): No inclusions but may have minor surface blemishes.
Very Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2): Minute inclusions that are difficult to detect under 10x magnification.
Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2): Small inclusions that are slightly easier to detect under magnification.
Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2): Noticeable inclusions under 10x magnification and sometimes visible to the naked eye.
Included (I1, I2, I3): Inclusions that are visible without magnification and may impact brilliance and durability.

What are VVS Diamonds?

VVS diamonds (Very Very Slightly Included) are known for their nearly flawless clarity. These diamonds contain minute inclusions that are extremely difficult to spot under 10x magnification. They are divided into two subcategories:

VVS1: Inclusions are only visible to an expert gemologist using high-powered magnification.
VVS2: Slightly more inclusions than VVS1, but still incredibly difficult to detect.

Pros of VVS Diamonds:

✔ Exceptional Clarity – Nearly flawless diamonds that appear perfect to the naked eye.

✔ Better Light Performance – Fewer inclusions result in enhanced brilliance and sparkle.

✔ High Resale Value – Due to their rarity, VVS diamonds retain their value over time.

✔ Premium Quality – Ideal for investment or high-end jewelry pieces.

Cons of VVS Diamonds:

✖ Expensive – VVS diamonds are significantly more expensive than lower-clarity grades.

✖ Overkill for Most Buyers – The clarity difference is often not noticeable to an untrained eye.

What are SI Diamonds?

SI diamonds (Slightly Included) contain noticeable inclusions that can sometimes be seen without magnification. They are divided into two categories:

SI1: Inclusions are visible under magnification but may still appear eye-clean in some cases.
SI2: Inclusions are more noticeable and may be visible to the naked eye.

Pros of SI Diamonds:

✔ Affordable Price – SI diamonds are much more budget-friendly than higher-clarity diamonds.

✔ Great Value – Some SI1 diamonds can appear eye-clean while costing significantly less than VVS diamonds.

✔ Larger Diamonds for Your Budget – With the savings on clarity, you can invest in a bigger carat size or better cut.

Cons of SI Diamonds:

✖ Visible Inclusions – Some SI diamonds may have inclusions that are noticeable, especially in larger stones.

✖ Lower Resale Value – SI diamonds don’t hold their value as well as VVS diamonds.

✖ May Affect Brilliance – If the inclusions are large or positioned poorly, they can impact the diamond’s light performance.

VVS vs SI Diamonds: Key Differences

Feature	VVS Diamonds	SI Diamonds
Clarity	Near flawless, microscopic inclusions	Visible inclusions, sometimes noticeable to the naked eye
Price	Expensive, premium pricing	More affordable, budget-friendly
Brilliance	Higher brilliance due to fewer inclusions	May have reduced brilliance depending on inclusions
Resale Value	Higher resale value	Lower resale value
Appearance	Completely eye-clean	Some stones may have visible inclusions
Best For	High-end buyers, investors, heirloom jewelry	Budget-conscious buyers, those prioritizing size over clarity

How to Choose Between VVS and SI Diamonds

Choose VVS Diamonds If:

You want a high-quality, near-flawless diamond.
Budget is not a concern, and you prioritize clarity over size.
You are purchasing an investment piece or heirloom-quality jewelry.
You want a diamond that maintains its value over time.

Choose SI Diamonds If:

You have a limited budget and prefer a larger diamond.
You don’t mind minor inclusions, especially if they are not visible to the naked eye.
You are prioritizing size and cut over clarity.
You’re looking for a diamond for everyday wear rather than an investment piece.

Are SI Diamonds Eye-Clean?

One of the biggest concerns when buying SI diamonds is whether they appear “eye-clean.” This means that no inclusions are visible to the naked eye from a normal viewing distance.

SI1 diamonds: Some are eye-clean, while others have small visible inclusions. Always inspect the diamond before purchasing.
SI2 diamonds: Most SI2 diamonds will have visible inclusions, especially in larger sizes.

If considering an SI diamond, it’s best to look at certified diamonds with high-resolution images or videos to ensure you’re getting an eye-clean stone.

Price Comparison: VVS vs SI Diamonds

VVS diamonds command a significant premium due to their rarity and clarity. In contrast, SI diamonds are much more affordable. Here’s a general pricing estimate based on a 1-carat round brilliant diamond:

VVS1 Diamond: $6,000 – $10,000
VVS2 Diamond: $5,000 – $9,000
SI1 Diamond: $2,500 – $4,500
SI2 Diamond: $2,000 – $4,000

The difference in pricing means that choosing an SI diamond can allow you to invest in a larger carat weight, a better cut, or a more prestigious setting while staying within budget.

Final Thoughts: Which One Should You Choose?

The choice between VVS vs SI diamonds depends on your priorities, budget, and expectations. If you value flawless clarity, prestige, and resale value, then VVS diamonds are the way to go. However, if you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option that still offers great brilliance, a well-chosen SI diamond can provide excellent value.

Pro Tip: If you’re buying an SI diamond, prioritize SI1 diamonds that appear eye-clean and invest in a high-quality cut to maximize sparkle. On the other hand, if you’re set on VVS diamonds, make sure the price premium aligns with your long-term investment or aesthetic goals.

Conclusion

Both VVS and SI diamonds have their advantages. Understanding their differences in clarity, price, and overall appearance will help you make an informed decision based on your personal preferences and budget. Whether you choose a dazzling VVS diamond or a budget-friendly SI stone, the most important thing is finding a diamond that fits your needs and brings you joy for years to come.