So, what does VS2 mean? VS2 is short for very slightly included. The inclusions for VS2 are barely visible to the naked eye. VS2 diamonds tend to have an inclusion that is positioned centrally and in the top half of the stone. The difference between diamond is VS1 or VS2 depends on two traits. The size of the inclusion and its location within the diamond.
VS1, VS2, Clarity, Inclusions, and You.
Clarity in a diamond is important. It gets confused with brilliance. Clarity refers to the flaws found in a diamond. There are two types of flaws. The first is an inclusion that is within the stone. The second is a flaw that is on the surface of the diamond. It is rare to find a flawless diamond due to how diamonds are made.
VS diamonds, VS1 and VS2, have slight inclusions. They can rarely be seen by a naked eye. Only a trained gemologist using 10X magnification can see them. The inclusion can be either a single large one or multiple smaller ones. Inclusions can be white specks, black specks, clouding or a line. Some inclusions are more visible under magnification. Some inclusions are so tiny, they are hard to see in a laboratory!
A diamond with an inclusion on the side of the stone is preferable to one ‘face up’. Inclusions tend to be more visible under magnification in larger stones of more than one carat. Avoid diamonds with a fracture within the stone or a chip on the surface. These imperfections will be visible in certain light.
The price difference between stones of different clarity is huge. It is possible to a VS2 that is lower in clarity without compromising its brilliance and beauty. A VS2 diamond offers the best value for money out of all the diamond grades.
Color is the fourth ‘C’. The most beautiful diamonds in the world are those are totally colorless. Many diamonds of a poorer grade have a slight yellowish hue. So the color is an important consideration. A more perfect stone with more color will not look as good as a more colorless stone of a lower grade.
Diamonds are graded using 4Cs- Carat (size) Clarity, Cut and Color.
The first diamond grading system was introduced in 1952. It had nine different grades for the quality of diamonds. It ranged from the top grade “flawless” to imperfect diamonds” with grades like I1 and I2“. This grading system was revised in the 1970s and extended to 12 grades. These grades have been adopted worldwide.
All the top diamond graders use them. Most smaller labs also use this grading system, but some don’t, so be sure to check.
The most important of the four C’s is cut. A low-quality diamond with a great cut can look better than a high-quality stone with a poor cut. A poorly cut diamond will often look dull and lifeless. The cut has a huge impact on the brilliance of the stone. A well-cut diamond will sparkle more. Its flaws can be hidden by the diamond cutter. A round diamond is the hardest shape to cut. The higher quality of the cut, the higher the price that the diamond. Never skimp on the cut.
Why choose a VS2 diamond?
You want to buy a diamond that is as perfect as possible. Especially if it is for an engagement ring. Sadly, the cost of a VVS1 diamond can be out of your price range. But shop around. You will be able to buy a VS2 diamond that looks equally beautiful. And cost much less money.
How to buy a beautiful VS2 diamond…
Buy the best quality diamond you can afford. VS2 diamonds represent good value for money. But take the time to understand exactly what you are buying.
- The first step is to choose your jeweler carefully. It is best to go to a jeweler who specializes in diamonds. One who can show you the loose diamond. And explain the position and type of inclusions that the stone has. See Also: Our Local Jewelry Store Checklist
- Try to buy a VS2 diamond that is “eye clean”. This means the inclusion is not visible to the naked eye. Many believe you can only get an “eye clean” diamond with VVS grade or higher. This is just not true.
- Buy a certified diamond. Certified by one of the top labs such as the GIA, AGS, IGI, and EGL. These labs follow a strict grading system. They are the most reputable labs. Be cautious of a diamond given a VS2 grading by a smaller lab. Especially if it has a cheaper price tag. It may be given a lower grading if examined by one of these top labs.
- Does your chosen diamond have a certificate? If not, this is easy for a jeweler to get. It can take 3-4 weeks. But it’s essential before you hand over your hard-earned money.
When shopping for diamonds, you will see that VS2 diamonds are “eye clean” and look truly beautiful. They may have a lower grade. But they will have a lower price tag too. If they have been well cut they will catch the light and sparkle.
All diamonds are stunning! Diamonds have been highly prized for centuries. They have a colorless beauty and vibrancy which cannot be duplicated. Each diamond is truly unique. A diamond is the hardest mineral known to man. Diamonds were formed trillions of years ago, deep in the earth’s surface. Diamonds last forever and bring beauty to their wearer. Giving a diamond is the classic symbol of eternal love.
