VS1 vs VS2 vs SI1 Diamond Clarity: Which Grade Offers the Best Value?

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You're staring at two diamonds with identical cut, color, and carat weight. One is graded VS2 and costs $4,200. The other is SI1 and costs $3,600. They look exactly the same to your eyes. Which do you choose?

This scenario plays out thousands of times daily as diamond shoppers navigate the often-confusing world of clarity grades. The difference between VS1, VS2, and SI1 can mean hundreds or even thousands of dollars—yet in many cases, these diamonds appear identical once set in jewelry.

Understanding exactly what these grades mean, when you can safely choose the lower grade, and when you should pay more helps you make decisions that balance quality with value. This guide breaks down everything you need to know about the most popular clarity grades in today's diamond market.

For a complete overview of diamond quality factors, see our complete diamond buying guide.

Table of Contents

• Understanding the GIA Clarity Scale
• VS1 Clarity: Premium Quality
• VS2 Clarity: The Smart Money Choice
• SI1 Clarity: Maximum Value
• Head-to-Head Comparison
• Clarity and Diamond Shape
• Clarity and Carat Weight
• Making Your Decision
• Using the Diamond Screener
• Common Clarity Mistakes
• Frequently Asked Questions

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Understanding the GIA Clarity Scale

The Gemological Institute of America developed the industry-standard clarity grading system, which evaluates diamonds under 10x magnification. The scale includes eleven grades:

VS1, VS2, and SI1 represent the sweet spot where quality meets value. These grades account for the majority of engagement ring diamonds sold today because they offer excellent visual quality at accessible prices.

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VS1 Clarity: Premium Quality, Premium Price

VS1 diamonds contain very small inclusions that are difficult to detect even under 10x magnification by a trained grader. These diamonds represent approximately the top 5% of all gem-quality stones in terms of clarity.

What to Expect from VS1

Inclusion types: Typically small crystals, feathers, or pinpoints positioned toward the edges or pavilion of the diamond.

Visibility: Inclusions are essentially invisible without magnification. Even under 10x loupe, a trained gemologist may need time to locate them.

Eye-clean rate: Virtually 100% of VS1 diamonds appear eye-clean regardless of size.

When VS1 Makes Sense

VS1 clarity is worth considering when:

• You're purchasing a large diamond (2+ carats) and want absolute assurance of eye-cleanliness
• You're choosing a step-cut shape like emerald or Asscher where inclusions are more visible
• Having documentation of near-flawless clarity matters to you personally
• Budget allows without sacrificing cut quality

VS1 Pricing

VS1 diamonds typically cost 10-15% more than comparable VS2 stones and 20-30% more than SI1 diamonds. This premium buys confidence rather than visible improvement in most cases.

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VS2 Clarity: The Smart Money Choice

VS2 diamonds contain minor inclusions that are somewhat easy to see under 10x magnification but remain invisible to the naked eye in the vast majority of cases. Many diamond experts consider VS2 the optimal clarity grade for value-conscious buyers.

What to Expect from VS2

Inclusion types: Small to moderate crystals, feathers, or clouds. Inclusions may be more centrally located than in VS1 diamonds.

Visibility: Under magnification, inclusions are identifiable with moderate effort. To the naked eye, they're essentially invisible.

Eye-clean rate: Approximately 95% or higher of VS2 diamonds under 2 carats appear completely eye-clean.

The VS2 Value Proposition

VS2 offers the best balance of quality and price for most buyers. You're paying for a diamond that:

• Looks identical to VVS and VS1 grades when worn
• Carries respected certification with excellent clarity rating
• Saves 10-25% compared to VS1 depending on other factors
• Provides confident purchase without microscopic analysis

When to Choose VS2

VS2 is ideal when:

• You're buying a brilliant-cut diamond (round, cushion, princess, oval)
• Your diamond is under 2 carats
• You prioritize maximizing carat weight or cut quality within budget
• You want excellent clarity without paying for microscopic perfection

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SI1 Clarity: Maximum Value, Careful Selection Required

SI1 diamonds contain noticeable inclusions when examined under magnification, but many remain eye-clean to casual observation. This grade offers significant savings but requires more careful selection.

What to Expect from SI1

Inclusion types: Small to moderate crystals, feathers, clouds, or twinning wisps. Location and type vary significantly between stones.

Visibility: Under 10x magnification, inclusions are easy to identify. Whether they're visible to the naked eye depends on the specific diamond.

Eye-clean rate: Approximately 60-70% of SI1 diamonds in brilliant cuts appear eye-clean, but this varies by diamond shape and size.

SI1 Selection Strategy

Not all SI1 diamonds are created equal. To find eye-clean SI1 stones:

Check inclusion location: Inclusions near edges or under facets are less visible than those in the table (center).

Consider inclusion type: White crystals and clouds are less noticeable than dark crystals or feathers.

Evaluate diamond shape: Round brilliants hide inclusions better than step cuts. The complex faceting creates sparkle that masks imperfections.

View high-resolution images: Never buy an SI1 diamond without examining detailed photos or 360° video. Our Diamond Screener links to retailers providing this imagery.

When SI1 Works Best

SI1 is an excellent choice when:

• You're buying a round brilliant or other brilliant-cut shape
• Your diamond is under 1.5 carats
• You can view detailed imagery before purchasing
• Budget savings of 10-20% over VS2 matter to your purchase
• You understand that not every SI1 diamond will be eye-clean

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Head-to-Head Comparison

Visual Differences

Price Comparison

Typical price relationships for otherwise identical diamonds:

For a 1-carat G-color Excellent-cut diamond:

• VS1: ~$6,000
• VS2: ~$5,200 (saves ~$800)
• SI1: ~$4,400 (saves ~$1,600)

These savings can fund a larger diamond, better setting, or simply remain in your pocket.

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Clarity and Diamond Shape

Different diamond shapes reveal inclusions differently, affecting which clarity grade you need.

Brilliant Cuts (Hide Inclusions Well)

Round brilliant, princess, cushion, oval, pear, and marquise shapes feature complex faceting patterns that create sparkle and effectively mask inclusions. For these shapes, SI1 is often an excellent choice.

Recommended minimum: SI1 (with careful selection) Sweet spot: VS2

Step Cuts (Reveal Inclusions)

Emerald and Asscher cuts feature large, open facets that act like windows into the diamond. Inclusions are much more visible in these shapes.

Recommended minimum: VS2 Sweet spot: VS1

Mixed Cuts

Radiant cuts combine elements of both styles and fall somewhere in between.

Recommended minimum: VS2 or carefully selected SI1 Sweet spot: VS2

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Clarity and Carat Weight

As diamonds increase in size, inclusions become easier to see. Adjust your clarity expectations accordingly:

Larger diamonds also magnify any inclusions present, so the margin for error decreases as carat weight increases.

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Making Your Decision

Choose VS1 if:

• You want guaranteed eye-clean quality without inspection
• You're buying 2+ carats
• You're choosing an emerald or Asscher cut
• Documentation of near-flawless clarity matters to you
• Budget allows without compromising cut

Choose VS2 if:

• You want the best balance of quality and value
• You're buying a brilliant-cut diamond under 2 carats
• You trust certification but want to verify with imagery
• You'd rather put savings toward a larger stone or better cut

Choose SI1 if:

• You're buying a round brilliant under 1.5 carats
• You can view high-resolution images before purchasing
• Budget savings of 20-30% significantly impact your purchase
• You're comfortable doing slightly more research

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Using the Diamond Screener for Clarity Comparison

Our Diamond Screener makes comparing clarity grades simple:

1. Set your parameters for carat weight, color, and cut
2. Filter by clarity to see VS1, VS2, or SI1 options
3. Compare prices for otherwise identical specifications
4. Click through to view detailed images on retailer sites
5. Identify efficiency frontier diamonds that offer optimal value

The screener aggregates certified diamonds from trusted retailers, letting you see exactly how clarity affects pricing in real time.

Compare clarity grades now: Use our Diamond Screener to see VS1, VS2, and SI1 diamonds side by side and find the best value for your budget.

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Common Clarity Mistakes to Avoid

Overpaying for invisible quality: A VVS1 diamond looks identical to a VS2 diamond when worn. Don't pay for microscopic perfection you'll never see.

Ignoring inclusion placement: An SI1 diamond with edge inclusions can look better than an SI1 with a central dark crystal. Location matters as much as grade.

Assuming all SI1 diamonds are equal: The SI1 category has wide variation. Always view imagery before purchasing.

Neglecting cut quality: A well-cut SI1 diamond can appear more brilliant than a poorly cut VS1. Never sacrifice cut for clarity.

Forgetting about diamond shape: Clarity requirements vary significantly between brilliant and step cuts. Apply the right standards for your chosen shape.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can you see the difference between VS1 and VS2 with the naked eye?

No. Both grades are virtually always eye-clean. The difference is only visible under 10x magnification, and even then requires training to distinguish.

Are SI1 diamonds bad quality?

Not at all. SI1 diamonds are gem-quality stones that often appear flawless to the naked eye. They represent a value opportunity for buyers willing to select carefully.

What clarity should I choose for an engagement ring?

For most brilliant-cut engagement rings under 2 carats, VS2 offers the best combination of quality and value. SI1 works well for round brilliants under 1.5 carats when you can view detailed imagery.

Does clarity affect how much a diamond sparkles?

Generally no. Sparkle is primarily determined by cut quality, not clarity. Only diamonds with significant inclusions (I1-I3) may have brilliance affected by their imperfections.

Is VS2 clarity good enough for a 2-carat diamond?

Usually yes for brilliant cuts. VS2 diamonds at 2 carats are eye-clean in the vast majority of cases. For step cuts at 2 carats, consider VS1.

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The Bottom Line

For most diamond buyers, VS2 represents the optimal clarity grade—offering guaranteed visual quality with meaningful price savings compared to higher grades. SI1 provides even better value for those willing to inspect their diamonds carefully.

Remember that clarity is just one factor in a diamond's beauty. A well-cut VS2 or SI1 diamond will appear more brilliant than a poorly cut VS1. Prioritize cut quality first, then optimize clarity within your remaining budget.

Ready to find your perfect diamond? Use our Diamond Screener to compare VS1, VS2, and SI1 options from trusted retailers and discover which grades offer the best value at your target specifications.

For more guidance on diamond selection, explore our complete diamond buying guide or learn about diamond color grades and cut quality.