VS1 vs VS2 Lab Grown Diamonds: Can You See the Difference?

Quick answer: In most cases, you cannot see the difference between a VS1 and a VS2 lab grown diamond with the naked eye. Both are "very slightly included," meaning their inclusions are small and usually visible only under 10x magnification. VS1 inclusions are a little harder to find than VS2. For most brilliant-cut stones, VS2 is the best value; choose VS1 for step cuts like emerald or for larger stones.

Clarity is one of the easiest places to save money without changing how your diamond looks. Here is how to decide between the two most popular clarity grades.

What Do VS1 and VS2 Mean?

Clarity grades describe the size, number, position and visibility of tiny internal features called inclusions. The scale runs from Flawless (FL) down to Included (I3).

VS1 vs VS2: The Real Differences

Visibility under magnification

A grader using a 10x loupe will find VS2 inclusions a little more easily than VS1 inclusions. Without magnification, both usually look clean.

Location of the inclusion

This matters more than the grade itself. A small inclusion near the edge, hidden under a prong, is harmless. The same inclusion right under the center table is easier to notice. Always look at the diamond's photos, video or clarity plot.

Price

VS1 costs a bit more than VS2. With lab grown diamonds, the gap is smaller in dollars than with mined diamonds, so many buyers choose based on shape and size.

Which Clarity Should You Choose?

• Round, oval, pear, cushion, radiant: VS2 is usually perfect. Brilliant facets hide small inclusions well.
• Emerald and Asscher: choose VS1 or better. Step cuts have large open facets that act like windows.
• Above about 2 carats: VS1 gives extra confidence, since larger facets make inclusions easier to spot.
• Studs and pendants: VS2 or even SI1 can look perfect, because they are viewed from further away.

Shown: Solitaire Pear Cut Lab Diamond Engagement Ring

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Have Different Inclusions?

They can. CVD diamonds may show fine dark specks or graining, while HPHT diamonds can contain tiny metallic flux inclusions. These are graded the same way as inclusions in mined diamonds, so a VS2 is a VS2 regardless of origin. Learn more in our guide to buying a lab grown diamond.

How to Check If a Diamond Is Eye-Clean

• View the stone at 100% zoom in a high-quality photo or video.
• Look for dark inclusions near the center of the table.
• Ask the seller to confirm eye-cleanliness at normal viewing distance.
• Check the clarity plot on the IGI report to see where inclusions are.

Clarity Checks at Ivevar

We handcraft every ring in our own Surat workshop and ship worldwide with free shipping and 30-day easy returns. We share photos or a video of your finished piece before it ships, so you can see the stone yourself. Explore our lab grown diamond engagement rings and solitaire rings.

Shop Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Rings

Solitaire Pear Cut Engagement RingShop NowOval Cut Solitaire Engagement RingShop NowOval Solitaire Pave Engagement RingShop NowRound Halo Ring with Pave BandShop NowHalo Emerald Three Stone RingShop NowRadiant Cut Halo Engagement RingShop Now

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is VS2 clarity good for an engagement ring?

Yes. VS2 is one of the most popular clarity grades because it is usually eye-clean and good value.

Is VS1 worth the extra money?

It is worth it for emerald and Asscher cuts, very large stones, or if you want extra peace of mind.

Is VVS better than VS?

VVS stones are cleaner under magnification, but they usually look the same as VS stones to the naked eye.

Can clarity get worse over time?

No. Inclusions do not grow or change. Only a chip or crack from a hard knock could change a diamond's appearance.

The Bottom Line

VS1 and VS2 both give you a clean-looking lab grown diamond. Choose VS2 for brilliant cuts and everyday value, and VS1 for step cuts or larger stones. Always check where inclusions sit, not only the grade.

Related Guides

• How to buy a lab grown diamond: a simple buying guide
• Engagement ring settings explained
• How much should you spend on an engagement ring?

Author Bio

Aumsri Pradhan

Founder, Ivevar Luxury

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Aumsri Pradhan is the founder of Ivevar Luxury, a Surat-based fine jewelry brand that designs and handcrafts lab grown diamond and moissanite jewelry in its own workshop. She leads the brand's design and customer experience, from engagement rings and bridal sets to custom pieces made to each client's story. Through the Ivevar blog, she shares practical guidance on lab grown diamonds, moissanite, diamond grading and ring design to help buyers choose with confidence.

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