Diamond Cut
The cut of a diamond
determines its brilliance. There is no single measurement of a
diamond that defines its cut, but rather a collection of
measurements and observations that determine the relationship
between a diamond's light performance, dimensions and finish. Most
gemologists consider cut the most important diamond characteristic
because even if a diamond has perfect
color and clarity, a diamond with a poor cut will have dulled brilliance.
The width and depth can have an effect on how light travels
within the diamond, and how it exits in the form of brilliance.
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Too
Shallow: Light is lost out the bottom causing the
diamond to lose brilliance.
Too Deep: Light escapes out the sides causing the
diamond to appear dark and dull.
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Determining a diamond's cut grade, however, goes beyond simple
measurements of width and depth. Using an optical measuring device,
a three-dimensional model is created to determine the diamond's
proportions and angles. The interrelations between these various
dimensions will greatly affect how light reacts once it enters and
how it behaves once it exits; by using sophisticated computer
modeling, it is possible to trace light behavior and measure its
levels of brightness, fire and
scintillation - the face-up appearance.
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Diameter:
The width of the diamond as measured through the girdle. |
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Table:
The largest facet of a gemstone. |
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Crown:
The top portion of a diamond extending from the girdle to
the table. |
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Girdle:
The intersection of the crown and pavilion which defines the
perimeter of the diamond. |
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Pavilion:
The bottom portion of a diamond, extending from the girdle
to the culet. |
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Culet:
The facet at the tip of a gemstone. The preferred culet is
not visible with the unaided eye (graded "none" or "small"). |
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Depth:
The height of a gemstone measured from the culet to the
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