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CUT
When the term "cut" is first introduced, most people
think of the diamond's shape. However, "cut" refers
to the diamond's proportions and finish. Cutting is the contribution
made by man transforming the rough diamond crystal into a
faceted, polished gem. The cutter's primary goals are to produce
the largest size diamond and achieve the greatest optical
beauty.
When a diamond is cut to proper proportions and is finished
well, light refracts into the diamond, is reflected from one
facet to another and then returns through the top of the gem
resulting in a display of brilliance (white light), dispersion
(rainbow-colored light) and scintillation (sparkling when
the diamond moves), and luster (bright reflections from the
surface). Proper cutting is the key to a diamond's beauty
and value.
Most diamond shapes are cut with 58 facets, or separate flat
surfaces, according to mathematical formulas. Using symmetry,
the cutter aligns these facets at precise angles in relation
to each other to maximize the reflection and refraction of
light.
The proportions are calculated in angles & percentages
that show how well the diamond refracts and reflects light.
When purchasing a diamond, you also may want to consider the
grading assigned to the girdle, culet, and polish.
In many cases, the visual differences may be indiscernible
to the naked eye. However, we want to provide you with all
the information that you need to select the diamond that is
right for you. Refer to the chart below to see the depth and
table percentages for each shape, according to "Ideal,
Excellent and Very Good" sub-categories. The graph for
round diamonds is representative of the graphs for all the
other shapes. Keep in mind that the lowest score becomes the
overall cut grade. For example, if the table percentage falls
within Ideal, but the depth percentage is in the Very Good
range, then the diamond is classified as Very Good. The table
takes into account the varying proportions for different shapes.
It is still best to see the diamond in person to get an accurate
visual reading of these important features. We at GemFind
recommend after finding your diamond online - find one of
our affiliates near you to SEE IT FIRST!
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TABLE |
DEPTH |
| |
| Round |
| Asscher Emerald |
| Radiant Princess |
| Pear Marquise |
| Oval |
| Heart |
|
| Ideal |
Excellent |
Very Good |
| 53-58% |
53-63% |
52-64.9% |
| 60-65% |
59-72% |
57-79% |
| 64-75% |
61-76.9% |
53-80% |
| 55-64% |
55-64% |
53-66% |
| 55-60% |
53-63% |
52-65.5% |
| 55-62% |
53-64% |
51-66% |
|
| Ideal |
Excellent |
Very Good |
| 59-62.5% |
58.5-63% |
57-64.9% |
| 60-65% |
60-75% |
58-79% |
| 64-75% |
61-76.9% |
53-80% |
| 59-64% |
68-65% |
57-67% |
| 59-62% |
58-64.5% |
55-66% |
| 55-58% |
53-60% |
50-63% |
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