Diamonds Cut
When the term "cut" is first introduced, most people think of the diamond's shape.
However, "cut" refers to the diamond's proportions and finish. Cutting is the contribution
made by man transforming the rough diamond crystal into a faceted, polished gem.
The cutter's primary goals are to produce the largest size diamond and achieve the
greatest optical beauty.
When a diamond is cut to proper proportions and is finished well, light refracts
into the diamond, is reflected from one facet to another and then returns through
the top of the gem resulting in a display of brilliance (white light), dispersion
(rainbow-colored light) and scintillation (sparkling when the diamond moves), and
luster (bright reflections from the surface). Proper cutting is the key to a diamond's
beauty and value.
Most diamond shapes are cut with 58 facets, or separate flat surfaces, according
to mathematical formulas. Using symmetry, the cutter aligns these facets at precise
angles in relation to each other to maximize the reflection and refraction of light.
The proportions are calculated in angles & percentages that show how well the
diamond refracts and reflects light. They will help you understand the range of
well-cut diamonds offered on Diamonds.Com.
When purchasing a diamond, you also may want to consider the grading assigned to
the girdle, culet, and polish.
Analyzing Cut
To understand the sub-categories for well-cut diamonds, think of a pyramid with
"Ideal" at the top. This narrow range is reserved for the most brilliant, rare and
valuable diamonds. The "Excellent" range includes beautiful diamonds that return
almost as much light. "Very Good" represents the balance between precise proportions
and price considerations.
In many cases, the visual differences may be indiscernible to the naked eye. However,
we want to provide you with all the information that you need to select the diamond
that is right for you. Refer to the chart below to see the depth and table percentages
for each shape, according to "Ideal, Excellent and Very Good" sub-categories. The
graph for round diamonds is representative of the graphs for all the other shapes.
Keep in mind that the lowest score becomes the overall cut grade. For example, if
the table percentage falls within Ideal, but the depth percentage is in the Very
Good range, then the diamond is classified as Very Good. The table takes into account
the varying proportions for different shapes.
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