Diamond Cut
What is the cut?
Rather than describing the shape of a stone, cut refers to the proportions, symmetry, brilliance and polish of a diamond. This means that the diamond cutter has taken into account the inherent characteristics of each individual stone and chosen the best way to shape it to highlight its beauty.
How does a diamond get its shine?
A diamond gets its brilliance and sparkle from the cutting and polishing of its facets, allowing maximum light to enter from above and be reflected and scattered again.
The Perfect Cut
Diamond Cut in Depth
With a perfect cut, light enters from the top, bounces off the sides, and then exits from the top, giving the diamond its maximum brilliance. If the diamond is cut too deeply, light passes through the sides of the diamond. If the diamond is cut too shallow, light escapes from the bottom, also reducing its maximum brilliance.
A poorly cut diamond will lack luster and sparkle compared to its higher quality counterparts, which is why master diamond cutters often sacrifice carat weight to improve a stone's cut.
Diamond Polishing and Symmetry
Polish and symmetry are two important aspects of the cutting process. Diamond polish refers to the smoothness of the facets, while symmetry refers to the alignment of those facets. Poor diamond polish or rough facets can diminish the diamond's brilliance, as well as its value.