Understanding Diamond Shapes and Cuts
A diamond’s cut is probably the most important C of the four C’s, largely because it affects the precious stone itself. However, while it is an extremely influential C given that a well-cut diamond can be worth thousands more as compared to a poorly cut one, this C is not well-known.
The cut of the diamond does not always refer to the shape of the stone. In particular, it refers to the polishing, the symmetry of the stone and the actual cutting of the stone by craftsmen. No diamond is used in its raw form and every one you can find in the jewelers’ shop has been cut before it was ready to be set in jewelry. When you go to the jewelers, you will be certain to find the following kinds of cuts:
Brilliant Cuts
A popular cut, it is largely revered for the characteristic sharp corners and triangular facets which lend a bright, brilliance to the diamond. This cut also has many different types as well:
- Round Brilliant: This cut has 58 facets, which is considered to be the best way to allow the diamond to reflect light at maximum capacity.
- Oval Cut: This cut is similar to the round brilliant cut but is leaner and longer as compared to it.
- Marquise Cut: Also similar to the round brilliant cut, this cut has a large number of pointed ends in comparison with the round brilliant. This cut also produces diamonds which can flatter the fingers, making them appear thinner and longer.
- Pearl Cut: Similar to the marquise and oval cuts, the pearl cut has a softer edge which is also more rounded.
- Heart Cut: This is one of the most favorite types of diamond cuts. The cut is more difficult than others since it is difficult to get perfect symmetry to get the brilliance of the diamond.
- Trillion Cut: This cut gives the diamond a triangular cut, allowing larger stones to be cut with more ease.
Step Cuts
Step cut diamonds have more clarity and less brilliance as compared to brilliant cut diamonds. The facets are larger and arranged in a manner to enable them to lie parallel with the girdle, creating the steps which it was named after. This cut also has many different types as well:
- Emerald Cut: This cut gives the stone a rectangular shape and has a large, open table with great clarity.
- Asscher Cut: This cut gives the stone an octagonal shape and is reminiscent of the jewelry style of the 1920s and 30s.
- Baguette Cut: This cut is used for large center stones in order to accentuate them better.
Mixed Cuts
Diamonds in this cut are usually produced by incorporating elements of the brilliant and step cut. This cut produces diamonds which have high clarity and brilliance and is popular in the market. This cut also has many different types as well:
- Princess Cut: This cut is extremely efficient and loved by jewelers and cutters since it makes less wastage of a rough diamond than other cuts.
- Radiant Cut: This cut effectively upgrades the brilliant cut and produces something which is truly brilliant and crystal clear.
Basic Cut Grades
The polishing and cutting of a diamond can make an impact on the luminous and brilliance of the finished article. Diamonds produced with the cuts mentioned above are further subdivided into the following three categories.
- Ideal Cut: The best cut which produces top quality diamonds that are brilliant and clear. It has symmetrical angles and proportions, creating an amazing stone.
- Deep Cut: This is a poorer cut and lacks brilliance, giving a muted and dull appearance.
- Shallow Cut: The shallow cut gives the illusion of a larger stone since it can pass more light instead of reflecting it back. This gives a sparkle but it lacks true brilliance.
When you go to buy diamonds, you can easily look at these types of diamonds and pick the best one for yourself.