The goal of most diamond cutters is to create the largest diamond they can from the rough diamond they are working with. They may examine the diamond for multiple days determining the most cost saving approach while maximizing size of every piece of rough they work with.
What most consumers struggle with is really understanding just how important cut is to the overall value and price of the finished diamond. I like to refer to cut in terms that all of us find easy to understand. We all know how bright a 100 watt light bulb is and we understand how dim a 40 watt light bulb is. The cut (symmetry) of a diamond determines the true brilliance of a diamond. In effect how many watts it emits to the eye. Many diamonds are sold at a premium price with great color and clarity, but are just not very bright. They almost have a dark flat appearance, with little brilliance. The unfortunate part is this high color, high clarity diamond was extremely expensive but has little brilliance.
There are other factors that can impact the beauty of a diamond like, scintillation, dynamic fire, and overall polish. You will find more information about these factors in upcoming blogs.
When I teach about cut I like to break it down to two primary terms of all brilliant cut diamonds; Major Symmetry and Minor Symmetry.
Major Symmetry refers to the big angle of a diamond where Minor symmetry is really about the small finishing details.
Major Symmetry deals with the big angles of a diamond. The important aspects for a diamond to return maxim light to the eye is for angles to be as close to perfect as possible, the pavilion angle should be 40 to 41 degrees and the Crown angle should be 33 to 35 degrees. When light passes through a proportioned diamond with the proper angles you will get maximum light return through the top of the diamond to the eye. Diamonds that do not have proper proportion will leak light from the bottom and side causing this diamond to only be 40 watts. You want to stay away from shallow and deep cut diamonds.
Minor Symmetry deals with all of the faceting and polishing of a diamond. It is important that facets line up properly, consistently, and are balanced at all facet junctures. The table and culet of the diamond should be centered. The girdle should be a consistent width around the entire diamond.
When you see a properly proportioned diamond, there is no mistaking its beauty and WOW factor. The brilliance of a properly proportioned diamond is sure to get you many compliments for years to come, and you will always feel good about your 100 watt diamond!
If you would like to learn more details about diamonds and how to maximize your value. Please feel free to contact D&R House of Diamonds in Las Vegas Nevada, (702) 758-3421.
Dave Padgett
Graduate Diamonds GIA