A complete guide to VS1 clarity diamonds

A VS1 diamond is a diamond that has been graded as “Very Slightly Included 1” by gemological laboratories such as the GIA (Gemological Institute of America). The VS1 clarity grade is part of a broader clarity scale that ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I3). VS1 diamonds typically have minor inclusions that are difficult to see under 10x magnification and are nearly impossible to detect with the naked eye.

What is VS1 clarity?

VS1 clarity refers to a diamond’s inclusion grade, which signifies very slight inclusions within the stone. These inclusions are typically microscopic and can include internal characteristics such as small crystals, feathers, or clouds. In a VS1 clarity diamond, these inclusions are often located near the edges of the diamond and do not impact the stone’s overall brilliance or structural integrity.

Clarity Grade	Description	Visibility of Inclusions
FL	Flawless	No inclusions under 10x magnification
IF	Internally Flawless	No inclusions, only minor surface blemishes under 10x magnification
VVS1	Very Very Slightly Included 1	Extremely difficult to see inclusions under 10x magnification
VVS2	Very Very Slightly Included 2	Very difficult to see inclusions under 10x magnification
VS1	Very Slightly Included 1	Difficult to see inclusions under 10x magnification
VS2	Very Slightly Included 2	Inclusions visible under 10x magnification, but difficult to see with the naked eye
SI1	Slightly Included 1	Inclusions somewhat visible under 10x magnification, might be visible to the naked eye
SI2	Slightly Included 2	Inclusions easily visible under 10x magnification, visible to the naked eye
I1	Included 1	Inclusions visible to the naked eye
I2	Included 2	Inclusions more prominent and visible to the naked eye
I3	Included 3	Inclusions highly visible, affecting the diamond’s appearance and durability

Pros of VS1 diamonds

1. Excellent Value: VS1 diamonds offer an excellent balance between quality and price. The minor inclusions are invisible to the naked eye, making these diamonds appear nearly flawless while being significantly less expensive than FL or IF diamonds.
2. High Clarity: As a VS1 clarity diamond has very few inclusions, its brilliance and fire are hardly compromised. This clarity grade is ideal for those who want a high-quality diamond without the premium price tag of higher clarity grades.
3. Wide Availability: VS1 diamonds are more commonly available than higher clarity grades like FL and IF, providing more options in terms of size, cut, and shape.

Cons of VS1 diamonds

1. Not Flawless: While VS1 diamonds are high-quality, they are not flawless. For perfectionists, the microscopic inclusions might be a drawback, even though they are invisible to the naked eye.
2. Price Sensitivity: VS1 clarity diamonds can still be more expensive than diamonds with lower clarity grades like VS2 or SI1, potentially leading to a higher cost for the buyer.

How VS1 diamonds compare to other clarity grades

VS1 diamonds are positioned just below the VVS (Very Very Slightly Included) clarity grades and above VS2 (Very Slightly Included 2) in terms of inclusions and overall quality. When compared to VS2 diamonds, VS1 diamonds have fewer and smaller inclusions, often resulting in better brilliance and a higher price. On the other hand, VVS1 and VVS2 diamonds have even fewer inclusions than VS1 diamonds, making them more expensive but only marginally better in appearance, especially to the untrained eye.

Clarity Grade	Inclusions under 10x magnification	Visual Impact	Price Range
VS1	Difficult to see	Minimal	Moderate
VS2	Visible with effort	Slight	Lower
VVS1	Extremely difficult to see	None	Higher
SI1	Somewhat visible	Noticeable	Lower
IF	No inclusions	None	Very High

Is VS1 a good quality diamond?

The answer is a resounding yes. VS1 diamonds provide a high level of clarity that ensures the diamond’s beauty and brilliance, without the inflated prices associated with Flawless (FL) or Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds. These diamonds are perfect for those who seek a balance between aesthetic perfection and cost efficiency.

Best shapes for VS1 diamonds

Certain diamond shapes can either highlight or minimize inclusions, making VS1 clarity diamonds more or less suitable depending on the cut:

• Round Cut: The most popular diamond shape, the round cut, maximizes brilliance and can effectively mask any minor inclusions present in a VS1 diamond.
• Princess Cut: The sharp corners and many facets of a princess-cut diamond can help hide inclusions, making VS1 diamonds a great choice for this shape.
• Emerald Cut: With its large, open facets, the emerald cut can make inclusions more visible. However, VS1 diamonds generally have inclusions that are difficult to detect, even in this revealing cut.
• Oval and Marquise Cuts: These shapes can also mask inclusions well, especially towards the pointed ends.

Choosing a VS1 diamond: what to consider

When selecting a VS1 diamond, several factors should guide your decision:

1. Carat Weight: Larger diamonds tend to show inclusions more readily. Therefore, a VS1 clarity diamond is an excellent choice for those looking for a larger stone without visible imperfections.
2. Cut Quality: The cut of a diamond plays a significant role in its overall appearance. A well-cut VS1 diamond will have enhanced brilliance, making any minor inclusions less noticeable.
3. Color Grade: The diamond’s color should also be considered, as it can affect the visibility of inclusions. Higher color grades (D–F) paired with VS1 clarity ensure a stunning, clear appearance.
4. Certification: Always buy a VS1 diamond that comes with a certificate from a reputable grading laboratory, such as the GIA or AGS. This certificate provides an objective assessment of the diamond’s clarity and other critical factors.

Maintaining the beauty of your VS1 diamond

To ensure your VS1 diamond retains its beauty over time, proper care is essential:

1. Regular Cleaning: Keep your diamond clean by regularly soaking it in a solution of mild dish soap and warm water. Use a soft brush to gently clean the stone, paying particular attention to the setting where dirt can accumulate.
2. Professional Maintenance: Schedule regular inspections with a jeweler to ensure the diamond is securely set and free from any damage.
3. Proper Storage: When not wearing your diamond, store it separately in a soft cloth pouch or a dedicated jewelry box to prevent scratches from other pieces.

Conclusion

VS1 clarity diamonds represent an excellent choice for those who value a combination of quality, beauty, and value. With minimal inclusions that are nearly impossible to see without magnification, these diamonds offer a visually stunning appearance without the hefty price tag of higher clarity grades. By understanding the nuances of VS1 diamonds and considering factors like cut, shape, and carat weight, you can make an informed decision that suits both your aesthetic preferences and budget.