Diamond Cut
When considering the cut of a diamond, most people think of the shape of a diamond. The cut of a diamond, however, actually refers to the proportions of the stone.
In its natural state, a diamond crystal does not sparkle in the way we all know. The sparkle of a diamond is achieved by the angles and finish cut into the stone by a diamond cutter.
The quality of the cut greatly affects the diamond’s appearance.
Understanding the Cut
How the diamond is cut influences how the light refracts into the diamond. In a well-cut diamond, the light enters into the gem from the top, is reflected around the facets and then exits the top of the diamond. This process causes brilliance (white light), dispersion (rainbow spectrum of light), scintillation (flashes of light from movement) and luster (reflection on the surface). When a diamond is not cut properly (too shallow or too deep), the light leaks out the sides or bottom of the diamond resulting in a less brilliant appearance.
Cutting a diamond correctly is a very difficult process. There are many factors a diamond cutter must consider in order to create the best cut diamond from the diamond crystal. For most shapes, 58 facets are ideal, and those facets must be cut according to specific mathematical calculations. The proportions of the diamond are essential to the cut. Percentages are used to evaluate the quality of a cut for each diamond shape.
The quality is then expressed in cut grade.
Analyzing the Cut Grade
Evaluating the cut of a diamond is difficult for the average consumer. Consequently, cuts are assigned a grade to make it easier. The typical range of cut grades includes:
Ideal
These diamonds are the best possible cut, nearly perfectly proportioned and reflect virtually all of the light that enters the diamond. Ideal cut diamonds are very rare and valuable.
Very Good
These diamonds reflect almost as much light as an ideal cut diamond but do not meet the preferred proportions exactly. They cost slightly less than ideal cut diamonds.
Good
These diamonds reflect a lot of the light that enters them, but not as much as very good or ideal cut diamonds. In most cases, the cutter chose to create a larger diamond at the expense of a better cut. Good cut diamonds are a budget-friendly option.
Fair
These diamonds fail to reflect a significant amount of light that enters them. While they may be of good size, they are not as brilliant as higher quality cut diamonds.
Poor
These diamonds are cut too shallow or too deep to reflect much light. They are not recommended.
Choose a Cut Grade
When buying a diamond, it’s important to consider all of the qualities of the diamond. The cut of the diamond will greatly impact its beauty as well as its cost. It’s a good idea to purchase the highest cut grade you can afford in order to get the most beautiful diamond your budget allows.