This is much more of an art than a science. The most often overlooked C in the process of choosing a diamond; it can also be the most important for determining a diamond’s appearance.
The process of cutting diamonds requires a deep understanding of geometry, as well as the ability to manipulate its principles. There is an accepted “perfect cut”, if it can be called that. It is simply a set of angle measurements and geometric proportions that, when followed, should give off maximum light reflection. However, given the inherent imperfections in most diamonds, this set of numbers is more of a guideline than it is a rule.
Generally, determining the quality of cut is done by evaluating how much and what kind of light the diamond reflects. Some cuts maximize the amount of white light that escapes directly from the diamond into the eye. These diamonds are said to have high brightness. However, a diamond may be cut to disperse a lot of light, which will increase the prism effect of the diamond and is referred to as “fire”. One person may prefer the brilliance to the fire, and another person may prefer the opposite.
Cut also determines the shape of a diamond. Again, this is a matter of personal preference. There are no shapes that are “better” than the others, simply different.
The Gemological Institute of America says that “A polished diamond’s beauty lies in it’s complex relationship with light: how light strikes the surface, how much enters the diamond, and how, and in what form light returns to your eye.
What that breaks down to in plain English is that a diamond’s beauty is a complex thing to measure. The most important thing in determining cut is to find one that appeals to you, as the buyer. You may find that you prefer diamonds that have higher dispersion values (“fire”) to diamonds with high reflection values (brightness). The beauty of the process of choosing cut is that there is no wrong answer. A diamond is a big investment for most people, so finding a diamond cut that fits your individuality is the most important thing.
James has more than a passing interest in fine diamonds and precious metals. He has been studying diamonds for many years, beginning with the purchase of his wife’s engagement ring. To learn more about what to look for in diamonds, visit his site at Certified Diamonds [http://www.unique-diamond-rings.com/] You will find a wealth of information about purchasing the diamond of your’s or your loved one’s dreams.
When looking for that perfect diamond, it is important to have someone you can trust and that is involved in the diamond trade. James can guide you with people that stand behind their diamonds.
