Diamond Information

Cut

Why do some diamonds seem to sparkle more than others? This is the result of the cut of a diamond.  This factor is almost as important as color in making your selection.

The cut of a diamond, that is the angles and polish of the different surfaces, or “facets” of a diamond, is what gives the brilliance or “fire” to a diamond.  A diamond cut to the proper proportions will gather, reflect, refract and disperse light like no other gemstone.  A poorly cut diamond will not reflect light as well as a diamond that is properly cut.  A classic brilliant-cut diamond, for example, has 58 facets which are placed in a geometric pattern to reflect the maximum amount of light.  Our round diamonds are brilliant-cut.

Another popular cut is the princess cut, which was developed around 1980 in Los Angeles.  The diamond is cut perfectly square rather than as a rectangle, generally with 76 facets, giving it more brilliance and fire than a round brilliant-cut.

In selecting diamonds, James Avery is particular to avoid diamonds that are not precisely cut.  Sometimes a diamond cutter will compromise proper proportions and cut the stone so that it will weigh more, and thus cost more, thus allowing light to leak through the diamond rather than be reflected upwards.  A customer may unknowingly pay more for a heavier stone while sacrificing quality and brilliance.

Cut is not letter-graded as are color and clarity.  Therefore, expertise in this area is needed to determine this factor.  Place your trust with someone who holds to the highest standards when grading the cut of a diamond.

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