Diamond Cut
What Is The Cut Of A Diamond?
Have you ever noticed how many surfaces a diamond has? A diamond’s cut refers to how well-proportioned the dimensions of a diamond are, and how these surfaces, or facets, are positioned to create sparkle and brilliance. For example, what is the ratio of the diamond’s diameter in comparison to its depth? These small, yet essential, factors determine the diamond’s beauty and price.
Are You Wondering Which Diamond Cut Is Best? It All Starts With Your Budget.
No single diamond is perfect for everyone—but all of our customers, whether they’re eyeing a .50-carat or a 16-carat diamond, want as much sparkle as their budget allows. Of the the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat), cut has the greatest influence on a diamond’s beauty and sparkle. Even a diamond with a flawless clarity grade (no blemishes or inclusions) can look glassy or dull if the cut is too shallow or deep. So, when determining what diamond to buy, go with the best cut grade that you can afford.
Grading Scale
See cut grade details or view the Cut Grade Chart below.
The Characteristics Of A Well-Cut Diamond Are Superior Brilliance, Fire, And Scintillation
Brilliance relates to the reflection of white light
Fire is the dispersion of light into the colors of the rainbow
Scintillation is the play of contrast between dark and light areas—it’s the sparkle
The Anatomy Of A Diamond:
Table: The largest facet of a gemstone
Crown: The top portion of a diamond extending from the girdle to the table
Girdle: The intersection of the crown and pavilion which defines the circumference of a diamond
Diameter: The measurement from one girdle edge of a diamond straight across to the opposing side
Pavilion: The bottom portion of a diamond, extending from the girdle to the culet
Culet: The facet at the tip of a gemstone. The preferred culet is not visible with the unaided eye (graded "none" or "small")
Depth: The height of a gemstone measured from the culet to the table
Diamond Cut And Diamond Shape Are Not The Same Thing
Although these terms are sometimes used interchangeably, diamond cut, and diamond shape mean different things.
Diamond cut assesses light performance of a diamond and is based on a combination of factors: proportions, symmetry, and polish (the overall surface condition of a diamond’s facets).
Diamond shape is related to the outline of a diamond. While the round brilliant diamond is our most popular shape, we also offer nine non-round fancy-shaped diamonds that can save you up to 25%.
What Is The Most Expensive Cut Of A Diamond?
When people talk about someone’s engagement ring, everyone focuses on carat. In reality, it’s the cut of the diamond that can be the biggest factor in the price tag. The Ideal cut diamond, and the super-ideal Astor by Blue Nile™, are the most expensive diamond cuts because they optimize light performance and create the most impressive sparkle.