Difference Between VS1 and SI1

[paris29]

I saw two diamonds under the scope that are 1.52 ct and 2.055ct but with different clarity. But under the scope both look eye clear. I really need help I'm purchasing in about 1-2 weeks. What's the major difference between VS1 and SI1 clarity, if both look eye clean under scope. How else do I test the difference.

 

[kenny]

The traditional use of the term eye clean means no inclusions are visible to the naked eye - (using no loupe or microscope).

VS1 is much cleaner than SI1 and I think I can safely say that VS1 is always eye clean.
(Now watch someone will post that one in a gabzillion VS1 with an eye-visible inclusion.)

VS1 is always eye-clean.
VS2 is virtually always eye-clean.
SI1s are sometimes eye-clean.
SI2s are usually not eye-clean.

You don't test the difference.
You buy a diamond with a report from a legitimate lab like GIA or AGS.
The clarity grade will be on the report.
Many other labs are, shall we say, "generous" with their color and clarity grading.

Kenny, donning flame suit.

 

[Dreamer_D]

If you have looked at the diamond and you cannot see the inclusions then there is no difference between VS1 and SI1 in reality... in the mind is another matter

 

[Gypsy]

The other difference is the price between the two, which is based on the rarity of Vs1 stones in the market versus SI1 stones.

Also clarity is not a matter of the number of inclusions. But rather the type and the location of them as well. A stone could have one black carbon inclusion right under the table and be an SI whereas another stone could have 3 clear pinpoint inclusions near the girdle without breaking the surface of the diamond and be a VS.

Ultimately, as long as the inclusions don't affect the safety of the diamond (and some do) the rest is up to personal preference. Some people consider higher clarity stones mindclean, others would rather save money or increase size by going for a stone that is eye-clean in the lowest clarity they can find.

 

[WinkHPD]

The traditional use of the term eye clean means no inclusions are visible to the naked eye - (using no loupe or microscope).

VS1 is much cleaner than SI1 and I think I can safely say that VS1 is always eye clean.
(Now watch someone will post that one in a gabzillion VS1 with an eye-visible inclusion.)

VS1 is always eye-clean.
VS2 is virtually always eye-clean.
SI1s are sometimes eye-clean.
SI2s are usually not eye-clean.

You don't test the difference.
You buy a diamond with a report from a legitimate lab like GIA or AGS.
The clarity grade will be on the report.
Many other labs are, shall we say, "generous" with their color and clarity grading.

Kenny, donning flame suit.

As well you should. You are trying to, again, foist off your opinion about SI2's as fact, when indeed, the majority of SI2's will be eye clean from the top, which is how they are graded. Of course, that also depends on the visual acuity of the viewer. I know it is popular here to define eye clean as from all angles, but gemologically that is incorrect. I am also surprised by the vehemence that many use to try to dissuade people from buying SI2s here when in fact they are some of the best values in the diamond world. The quality issue involved is the issue of cutting. Color and clarity are merely rarity issues. Granted, they have huge influence on the price, but often little, if any, visual affect.

This part is well said.

Wink

 

[Ultimate Diamond Co.]

VS1 stones will always be eye clean. If you are going to buy a VS1 stone where you can see the inclusions, don't buy it because its definitely not VS1. As for SI1 stones go, you must see the stone and check if its eye clean. Being a gemologist, I have seen many stones that are SI1, but not eye clean. Majority of stones will probably be eye clean, but you have to look at it to make sure. There are also SI1 stones that look like VS2 clarity diamonds too. Bottom line is look at the stone in person! Don't just look at a picture and assume its eye clean. There are programs called photoshop out there!

 

[MrsChil]

Of the two I would just pick the one that is the most visually appealing to you. If you can't see the inclusions (eye clean) then it doesn't matter what the cert says. I would buy an SI2 in a heartbeat if it was eye clean or very hard to see the inclusion! They're a steal if you can find a good one!