CUT
The CUT of a diamond is the greatest determinant to the beauty of a diamond. It is also the only element of the 4Cs that is within the control of human effort.
The beauty of a diamond ultimately depends on the reflection or the return of light from the diamond. In the 3 sets of diamonds below, the left and middle groups show inferior cut diamonds with a multitude of differing proportions that allow the leakage of light, resulting in many dull stones. The group on the right displays superior cut diamonds with maximum return of light and brilliance.
WHY THEN AREN’T ALL DIAMONDS CUT TO THIS STANDARD?
Because rough is expensive and a cutter is continuously balancing between yield and the beauty of a stone. Further, every facet is hand cut and accurate cutting is difficult to achieve, time consuming and involves greater wastage of expensive rough.
IDEAL PROPORTIONS
Beyond just a good cut, the most beautiful diamonds are cut to strictly defined ideal cut proportions. These proportions ensure the maximum return of brilliant light, dispersed light and scintillation from a diamond. A diamond that is cut too deep will produce a dark centre in the stone. A diamond that is cut too shallow will result in a dull hollow appearance.
PERFECT SYMMETRY
Symmetry refers to how identical and exact the size and placement of each facet is. Below are some images of perfect and imperfect symmetry examples.
PERFECT POLISH
Polish refers to the surface finish of a diamond. Perfection is attained when the surfaces are even and flat, with no polishing lines, graining or burn marks.
CARAT
1 carat = 100 points = 0.2 grammes
Diamonds are priced according to weight categories; the larger the stone, the more expensive, reflecting increasing natural rarity. Weight, however does not equate to diameter; thus reinforcing the importance of CUT.
COLOUR
Most diamonds, although appearing colourless actually have slight traces of yellow or brown. Diamond colour grades range from colourless D to light yellow Z. With D colour being the best and rarest, it will obviously be the most valuable as well.
CLARITY
The clarity grade of a diamond is determined under 10x magnification and generally does not affect its beauty. Grading is determined by the size, location and the number of tiny natural marks, known as inclusions, present in most diamonds. These marks are like a diamond’s ‘finger print’, making each stone unique with its own set of identifying characteristics.
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