You want to buy a diamond. You have been doing your due diligence and every research has thrown up the term ‘4Cs’ which is actually a functioning abbreviation referring to the four fundamental characteristics – Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat – to search for in a diamond based on the industry-wide standardized system. These are the most important four attributes that determine the quality and superiority of a diamond.
Knowing these basics will make the entire process of deciding the perfect diamond for your ring setting a smooth journey. Of these four, most gemologists and diamond experts agree that Cut is the most important C because it has the biggest influence over a diamond’s sparkle and beauty.
What does Cut of a diamond refer to?
Cut of a diamond refers not to its shape such as oval, round, pear etc. but to the diamond’s symmetry, proportion, and polish. More than any other feature, the cut is crucial in determining the splendor and final value of the stone. Though extremely technically difficult and complex to analyze and qualify among all the 4Cs, diamond cut offers three major effects on its appearance:
- Brilliance – the brightness generated by the combination of the external and internal white light reflections from both the surface and inside of the polished diamond
- Fire – the dispersion or scattering of white light into all the colors of rainbow that is the visible spectrum, witnessed as flashes of colors
- Scintillation – the amount of sparkle produced by a diamond and the patterns of dark and light areas created by reflections within the stone, when light source or the diamond is moved
Diamond cut proportions and diamond depth
A well cut diamond has its proportions balanced that is neither too deep nor too shallow and its facets are symmetrical and smooth. Diamond proportion points to the relationship between the shape, size, and angle of every facet of a diamond. With the possibility of a wide array of combinations, it ultimately determines a diamond’s interaction with light.
The distance of the culet from the bottom of a diamond’s girdle is the pavilion depth. Whether too deep or too shallow, a far from optimum pavilion depth allows light to leak out from the sides of the stone or escape from the bottom. Result of precise workmanship or artistry, a well-cut diamond directs more light through its crown.
To guarantee a dazzling diamond, choose the highest cut grade you can afford.
