In its natural state, a diamond's beauty is generally concealed. How a diamond has been cut, polished, and to what proportions, are of utmost importance. These elements determine the life, brilliance and luster of the diamond. If these cuttings factors fall below standard, the appearance of the diamond will be adversely affected. The brilliant of round cut is the most popular, but other exquisite cuts such as the marquise, pear, oval, emerald, heart shapes and others are also highly prized.
How the Cut Influences the Brilliance of the Diamond
Diamond Anatomy
Diameter: The width of the diamond as measured through the girdle
Table: The largest facet of a gemstone
Crown: The top portion of a diamond extending from the girdle to the table
Gridle: The narrow band around the widest part of a diamond
Pavilion: The bottom portion of a diamond, extending from the girdle to the culet
Cutlut: The facet at the tip of a gemstone. The preferred culet is not visible with the unaided eye
Depth: The height of a gemstone measured from the culet to the table
Diamond Proportions
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Depth |
Table |
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Ideal |
60.1 - 62.8% |
53 - 57% |
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Very Good |
58.5 - 64% |
52 - 60% |
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Good |
57.5 - 64.5% |
51 - 65% |
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Fair |
56.5 - 67% |
50 - 67% |
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Poor |
<56.5 or >67% |
<50 or >67% |
Table percentage: The ratio of the table diameter of the diamond to its overall diameter.
Depth percentage: The ratio of the depth of the diamond to its diameter.
Polish
This characteristic refers to the finishing or final polishing of the facets or flat surfaces.
Contrary to common belief, diamonds are ground and polished, not chipped away, until they reach their final form. Each facet of the diamond is carefully formed by the diamond cutter to shine and be free from polishing imperfections. The polish of a diamond is generally defined as either Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good or Excellent.
Symmetry
This characteristic refers to the alignment and positioning of the facets or flat surface.
Each facet is cautiously positioned by the diamond cutter in proper proportion and relationship to the other facets. The alignment of each facet should be sharp and exact. The symmetry of a diamond is generally defined as either Poor, Fair, Good, Very Good or Excellent.
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