Any jewelry store or scroll through Instagram engagement rings, you’ll notice three letters everywhere VVS moissanite, VVS clarity & VVS grade stones.
But what does it actually mean and should you care?
If you’re buying moissanite jewellery, especially an engagement ring, understanding VVS clarity can be the difference between a stone that looks stunning and one that feels just okay.
After working with moissanite for years, I’ve seen how confusing clarity grades can be. Some people think they need the highest grade possible, while others ignore clarity altogether and end up disappointed.
The truth is simple: VVS clarity matters, but not for the reasons most people think.
What Does VVS Actually Mean?
VVS stands for Very, Very Slightly Included, a clarity grade originating from the diamond grading system developed by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) in the 1940s. The jewelry industry later adopted this well-established scale for moissanite because it was already familiar and trusted by diamond buyers. A VVS-grade stone does contain minute natural characteristics, but they are so microscopically small that even trained gemologists have difficulty detecting them under 10× magnification. To the naked eye, these inclusions are effectively invisible, meaning a VVS moissanite appears completely clean, clear, and flawless in everyday wear.
The Full Clarity Scale Explained
To understand why VVS clarity is so highly valued, it helps to see where it sits within the complete clarity spectrum established by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA):
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Flawless (FL): No inclusions or blemishes visible under 10× magnification. Extremely rare and priced at a premium.
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Internally Flawless (IF): No internal inclusions, though minor surface blemishes may be visible under magnification.
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Very, Very Slightly Included (VVS1 & VVS2): Inclusions are so minute that even skilled gemologists struggle to detect them under 10× magnification. VVS1 stones have slightly fewer or smaller inclusions than VVS2.
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Very Slightly Included (VS1 & VS2): Minor inclusions visible under magnification but not detectable to the naked eye.
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Slightly Included (SI1 & SI2): Inclusions are noticeable under magnification and may be visible to the naked eye in certain lighting conditions.
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Included (I1, I2, I3): Obvious inclusions visible without magnification that can affect both brilliance and durability.
VVS clarity ranks near the very top of this scale, just two grades below absolute perfection, making it one of the highest clarity levels available.
VVS1 vs. VVS2
Within the VVS category, clarity is further divided into two sub-grades. VVS1 stones typically have inclusions located near the edges or girdle of the stone and are exceptionally difficult to identify even under magnification. VVS2 stones may have inclusions that are slightly more central or marginally larger, though still extremely small and challenging to detect.
In practical terms, the difference between VVS1 and VVS2 is virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye and even to most professionals without magnification. Both represent exceptional clarity and offer a visually flawless appearance in everyday wear.
How Moissanite Clarity Is Graded
Moissanite clarity is assessed by a trained gemologist using 10× magnification, typically with a professional jeweller’s loupe. During this examination, the evaluator carefully analyses several key factors, including the nature of the inclusions (their type), their size, the number present, their position within the stone, and their overall visibility under magnification.
These elements are considered together to determine the stone’s final clarity grade. To qualify as VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included), any inclusions must be so minute that they are extremely difficult to locate even under 10× magnification.
Important note: When viewed with the naked eye, a VVS moissanite shows no visible inclusions whatsoever. The stone appears completely clean and visually flawless in everyday wear.
Why VVS Moissanite Has Become So Popular
1. The Ideal Balance of Quality and Value
VVS clarity represents a near-perfect level of quality without the steep price premium associated with Flawless or Internally Flawless stones. In practical terms, it delivers a gemstone that appears completely flawless to the naked eye while avoiding the cost of achieving microscopic perfection that is only visible under a jeweler’s loupe. This balance makes VVS an attractive choice for buyers who value both appearance and smart spending.
2. Uncompromised Brilliance and Fire
At the VVS level, inclusions are so minute that they have no impact on how light travels through the stone. As a result, the moissanite exhibits its full fire, brilliance, and signature rainbow sparkle without any visual interference. The stone performs exactly as intended, delivering maximum light return and visual impact.
3. Strong Market Positioning
The term “VVS moissanite” has become synonymous with premium quality in the jewelry market. Retailers frequently emphasize this clarity grade because it resonates with consumers and conveys expertise and refinement. Unlike vague marketing language, VVS is a recognized and meaningful clarity designation with a clear technical definition.
4. Influence of Social Media and Trends
Social media has further amplified the popularity of VVS moissanite. Influencers and public figures often describe their rings using specifications such as “VVS clarity” and high color grades, reinforcing the perception that VVS represents the ideal standard. While this level of clarity is not strictly necessary for visual beauty, perception strongly influences demand and VVS has become the benchmark many buyers aspire to.
VVS Moissanite vs. Other Clarity Grades: The Real Differences
VVS vs. VS (Very Slightly Included)
Technical distinction: VS-grade moissanite contains inclusions that are slightly larger or more easily detectable under magnification when compared to VVS stones.
Visual appearance: To the naked eye, the difference is virtually nonexistent. Both VS and VVS moissanite appear clean, clear, and flawless under normal viewing conditions.
When VS makes sense: VS clarity is an excellent choice for buyers working within a tighter budget who are comfortable knowing that a trained gemologist could identify minor inclusions under magnification. For most consumers, VS offers outstanding value without any visible compromise in beauty.
VVS vs. SI (Slightly Included)
Technical distinction: SI-grade moissanite contains inclusions that are clearly visible under 10× magnification and, in some cases, may also be visible to the naked eye depending on lighting, viewing angle, and stone size.
Visual appearance: This is the clarity range where differences can begin to be noticeable, particularly in larger stones or in cuts that emphasise clarity over sparkle.
When SI makes sense: SI clarity can be a reasonable option if budget is the primary concern and the stone still appears clean to your eye. Many well-cut SI1 moissanites remain eye-clean, with inclusions that are not easily visible during normal wear.
VVS vs. FL/IF (Flawless/Internally Flawless)
Technical distinction: Flawless (FL) and Internally Flawless (IF) moissanite contain zero or virtually zero inclusions, even when examined under magnification.
Visual appearance: To the naked eye, there is absolutely no visible difference between FL/IF and VVS moissanite. Without magnification, even trained professionals cannot distinguish them.
Value perspective: FL and IF moissanite command a significantly higher price for a level of perfection that offers no real-world visual benefit. For this reason, most gemologists and jewelry experts consider these grades unnecessary for moissanite jewelry, as VVS already delivers a visually flawless appearance at far better value.
VVS Moissanite vs. VVS Diamond
Since moissanite uses the same clarity grading terminology as diamonds, it’s natural to ask how VVS moissanite truly compares to VVS diamonds in real-world terms.
Hardness and Durability
Diamonds rank a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, while moissanite follows closely at 9.25. Both gemstones are exceptionally durable and well-suited for everyday wear, including engagement rings. Although diamond is technically harder, the difference is largely theoretical under normal use, you will not notice any practical difference in durability between the two.
Brilliance and Fire
Diamonds have a refractive index of 2.42, whereas moissanite ranges from 2.65 to 2.69. This higher refractive index means moissanite bends light more intensely, producing stronger fire and more colorful sparkle. Some buyers love this vibrant, rainbow-like brilliance, while others prefer the more understated sparkle of a diamond. At the VVS clarity level, both stones allow light to pass through freely, ensuring maximum brilliance and fire.
Visual Appearance
To the naked eye, a VVS diamond and a VVS moissanite both appear completely flawless. The visible differences are not related to clarity but instead come down to optical characteristics such as:
- Fire: Moissanite displays more colorful flashes of light
- Color behavior: Even D-color moissanite may show slight warmth in certain lighting conditions
- Cutting style: Moissanite is often cut differently to enhance its unique optical performance
Price Comparison
This is where moissanite truly stands apart.
- 1-carat VVS diamond (D color): approximately $5,000-$10,000+
- 1-carat VVS moissanite (D color): approximately $300-$600
- 2-carat VVS diamond (D color): approximately $15,000-$30,000+
- 2-carat VVS moissanite (D color): approximately $500-$900
The clarity is essentially identical, yet the cost difference is dramatic. This exceptional value combined with durability and visual performance is a major reason why moissanite has surged in popularity as a diamond alternative.
The Best Settings for VVS Moissanite
Your setting plays a critical role in either highlighting the exceptional clarity of a VVS moissanite or diminishing it and reducing the value of your investment.
Settings That Best Showcase VVS Clarity
Solitaire settings are the classic and most effective choice, allowing the VVS moissanite’s clarity and brilliance to take full focus without distraction. Halo settings also work beautifully, as the flawless appearance of a VVS center stone ensures it remains visually perfect even when surrounded by accent stones. Three-stone settings emphasize the center gem, where a VVS moissanite naturally stands out as the focal point. Cathedral settings, with their elevated design, allow increased light entry, maximizing brilliance and fully showcasing the benefits of superior clarity.
Why Metal Choice Matters
Platinum and white gold are ideal for displaying colorless VVS moissanite, as their naturally white tone avoids unwanted color reflection and preserves the stone’s crisp appearance. Yellow and rose gold can introduce a subtle warmth through reflection still elegant and intentional, but something buyers should be aware of when pairing with high-colour stones. Sterling silver, while more affordable, requires regular maintenance due to tarnishing; although the VVS moissanite itself will remain flawless, the setting must be cared for to maintain the overall appearance of the piece.
Conclusion
So, is VVS moissanite worth buying? The answer depends on your priorities, but for many buyers, it absolutely can be. VVS clarity is a smart choice if you want the highest visual quality moissanite can offer, especially when selecting a larger stone (1.5 carats or more), a step-cut shape that reveals inclusions more easily, or when the price difference compared to VS clarity is relatively small. It also offers peace of mind for those creating heirloom-quality jewelry meant to be worn and cherished for generations. That said, VVS is not mandatory for beauty. If you are choosing a smaller stone, a brilliant cut that naturally hides inclusions, or if upgrading to VVS would significantly limit your size or budget, VS clarity can be an excellent and visually flawless alternative. In real-world wear, a well-cut VS moissanite from a reputable seller can be just as stunning as VVS. Ultimately, cut quality and craftsmanship matter more than chasing the highest clarity grade. Choose the best balance of cut, clarity, and seller reputation, and you’ll end up with a moissanite that delivers exceptional brilliance, durability, and long-term satisfaction.
