What is a VS2 Clarity Diamond
A VS2, or Very Slightly Included 2 diamond, features minor inclusions only visible to a trained gemologist using 10x magnification. To the naked eye, it appears virtually flawless. When choosing a VS2 diamond, request an image or video to better locate and understand the size and nature of its inclusions.
The primary distinction between VS1 and VS2 lies in the size and number of inclusions within the diamond. Clarity grades differ based on the location, size, number, and type of these inclusions. More noticeable inclusions result in a lower clarity grade. In terms of inclusion types, both grades are quite similar. However, inclusions under the table facet or extending from the edge or girdle can affect clarity levels differently.
Buying a VS2 Diamond
For the most part, purchasing a VS2 diamond is a safe bet over 95% of the time. Particularly with larger diamonds above 1.50ct, watch out for inclusions centrally located and visible to the naked eye, and avoid them if possible as they can detract from the diamond’s overall sparkle and beauty.
Typically, a diamond’s sparkle and light performance remain unaffected by a VS2 clarity rating. In step-cut diamonds like Emerald or Asscher cuts, where large open facets make inclusions more visible, black crystal inclusions at the center may stand out more prominently. Similar visibility issues may occur in princess and cushion cut diamonds, but less so in round diamonds. Significant pricing disparities often exist between SI and VS ranges due to the more noticeable inclusions in SI diamonds, which can be visible even without magnification.
