ABOUT DIAMOND CUTS
The cut of a diamond describes the manner in which a diamond has been shaped and polished from its beginning form as a rough stone to its final gem proportions. We use the cut of a diamond as an objective measure of the reflective qualities of a diamond. In laymen’s terms, the cut of diamond describes how much the diamond sparkles.
It is important to note that the “cut” and “shape” of a diamond are two different characteristics. When we speak of a diamond’s cut, we are referencing the diamond’s reflective qualities. In contrast, the shape of a diamond refers to its general outside appearance.
The diamond cut is often cited as the most important characteristic of a diamond. Accordingly, it is essential to understand exactly how a diamond’s cut affects both its appearance and its cost.
A well-cut diamond allows light to enter through the table and reflect off both sides, where it then reflects back through the table. The reflection of the light is what makes diamonds so riveting to the observer’s eye.
In contrast to a well-cut diamond, a diamond that is poorly cut will not allow light to reflect through it properly. Instead, the light will enter through the table and leak out through the bottom, rather than reflecting back out through the top. As you may have presumed, the less amount of light reflecting back through the table to the observer’s eye diminishes the brilliance of the diamond.
WHY PROPORTIONS MATTER
Proper cut proportions are essential to a brilliant diamond. At Morgan’s Jewelers, we only select diamonds that are cut using mathematical calculations designed to maximize the brilliance of diamonds.
While the mathematical variations in diamond cuts tend to be very small, they can have a significant effect on the brilliance of the diamond. As a result, all diamond cuts are graded, enabling you to decipher the quality of the cut easily. In general, the grading system is as follows:
- Ideal
- Premium
- Very Good
- Good
- Fair
- Poor
Which Grade is Right For Me?
When selecting the cut grade of a diamond, the choice is ultimately depends on your budget and personal preference. While many factors are involved in the price of each diamond, as you may have presumed, the price of most diamonds rise as the quality of the cut improves.
When selecting the cut grade of a diamond, the choice is ultimately depends on your budget and personal preference. While many factors are involved in the price of each diamond, as you may have presumed, the price of most diamonds rise as the quality of the cut improves.