Diamond Clarity Explained: VVS vs VS Grades in HPHT Diamonds

Clarity grading significantly impacts both the value and appearance of HPHT lab-grown diamonds. This comprehensive guide helps jewelers understand clarity grades and make informed purchasing decisions.

Clarity Grade Definitions

VVS1 (Very Very Slightly Included 1)

Minute inclusions under 10x magnification
Extremely difficult to locate
Highest clarity grade available
Premium pricing category

VVS2 (Very Very Slightly Included 2)

Minute inclusions visible under 10x
Very difficult to see
Excellent value proposition
Most popular premium grade

VS1 (Very Slightly Included 1)

Minor inclusions easily seen under 10x
Difficult to see with naked eye
Good balance of quality and value
Strong consumer demand

VS2 (Very Slightly Included 2)

Noticeable inclusions under 10x
Sometimes visible to naked eye
Best value for money
Popular for commercial jewelry

HPHT Clarity Advantages

Crystal Structure Benefits

HPHT diamonds have unique clarity characteristics:

Dense, uniform crystal structure
Fewer internal stress fractures
Consistent inclusion patterns
Superior light transmission

Market Analysis by Grade

VVS1 Market

5-10% of HPHT production
Highest profit margins
Investment-grade stones
Limited availability

VVS2 Market

25-30% of production
Strong consumer demand
Excellent inventory turnover
Premium pricing stability

VS1 Market

35-40% of production
Mainstream consumer choice
Balanced profit margins
Consistent demand

VS2 Market

20-25% of production
Value-focused consumers
High volume sales
Competitive pricing

Pricing Structure

Grade Premiums

VVS1: 25-35% premium over VS1
VVS2: 15-20% premium over VS1
VS1: Baseline premium pricing
VS2: Standard commercial pricing

Working with Kunlun Growth

We provide:

Guaranteed clarity grades
Full certification support
Consistent quality control
Expert guidance on selection

Conclusion

Understanding clarity grades is essential for success in the HPHT diamond market. Proper grading, inventory management, and consumer education create profitable opportunities for jewelers.