A newcomer to the diamond industry - and certainly male diamond purchasers - need a bit of assistance in getting to know the best diamond-hunting methods. And anybody in serious pursuit of a diamond must understand the tremendous array available in the marketplace.
The diamond assortment is inclined to deviate along a few lines of market understanding - namely, along the lines of colored, fake, man-made, and other diamonds. Consider this as a simple guide to the diamond range and as your quick look at an occasionally blinding market.
Hereunder is a really short help guide the most essential diamond characteristics you'll want to bear in mind once you begin your hunt for your first natural diamond.
1. Cuts
Professionals differentiate diamonds first and foremost by their cut. In diamond terms, 'cut' refers to the variety of shapes and forms offered in a certain diamond, and some are listed below together with their descriptions:
. Princess, occasionally known as modern timeless classics, offers clean, square lines with enormous reflective qualities
. Marquise diamonds, perhaps one of the most widely known of diamonds, typically come in the form of elongated shapes with pointed ends
. Emerald diamonds have 2 sides that are much longer compared to the other 2 sides. These proportions can vary
. Radiant cut diamonds hold the overall look associated with emerald diamonds but with multiple facets
. Cushion cut diamonds are an unusual mix of a round together with the square and are regularly used as an alternative for oval and even princess
. Round diamonds continue to be typically the most popular diamond without doubt due to their sparkle
. Asscher diamonds undoubtedly are a truly elegant square cut
. Oval diamonds are breathtaking and have a very similar sparkle to round diamonds
2. Color
The color of the white diamond can vary from totally without color (Grade D) to faint yellow (Grades K, L, and M). Usually stones with little color will be more valuable; yet, the price also varies based on the type of cut, carat weight and clarity. Some of the colors can only be detected by trained gemologist and others can be located by the human-eye.
3. Carat
Diamonds of a particular carat weight help to make items like diamond engagement rings more appealing because of the size and heft. Diamonds that have a substantial carat weight - and with 1 carat weight equivalent to 200 milligrams - will help make a diamond ring more exciting.
4. Clarity
Diamonds on the whole contain blemishes, these blemishes are called 'inclusions'. Usually the more inclusions the stone contains the less it is worth. The inclusions range from flawless to visible to the eye.
Your budget can either get you a smaller diamond with fewer imperfections or a bigger stone containing more imperfections.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Monday, June 13, 2011
Are Some Diamond Cuts More Expensive Than Others?
Are some diamond cuts more expensive than others? Well before I answer that question,there is one misconception that must be cleared up first and foremost; a diamond’s cut and a diamond’s shape are not one and the same. The shape is what this article will be discussing – whereas the cut is how the stone is, well, cut with mathematical precision and the type of artisanship that only can only be gained via careful observation and the type of experience which cannot be bought.
A diamond’s cut determines how much brilliance and fire can be seen as it catches and reflects the light a certain way – it’s all geometry. Interestingly enough, what costs the most for the gem cutter is not necessarily what costs the most to the consumer. Now, let us focus on appropriately pricing specific shapes.
There are ten common shapes into which diamonds are cut: Round (also known as round brilliant), Marquise, Asscher, Cushion, Pear, Oval, Emerald, Princess, Radiant, and Heart. All “fancy” shapes of diamonds (fancy being the term assigned to all diamonds that aren’t round) are less expensive at the wholesale level – they are often sold for more because jewelers know that people will believe a more complex or unusual cut should be worth more.
The princess cut, which is becoming more popular, is an octagonal cut which allows the most material from the rough diamond to be preserved. This serendipity occurs because the diamond’s crystals tend to form into a pair of octagons with square edges – edges that must be cut off to form a round. Therefore, the diamond cutter needs to do less work, and can sell the “larger” stone for more money.
Obviously, a different jeweler will have different supplies, and will put in their own individual markup. But in some cases, the final price either has to do with supply and demand, or the level of difficulty required to work with a particular diamond.
So you're still wondering, are some diamond cuts more expensive than others? Yes, for instance, princess cut diamonds tend to be more difficult to set, as they have especially sharp corners. And the Asscher cut is exceedingly rare (and gaining in popularity), as it is a patented cut that is only produced by the Asscher family in Amsterdam.
It’s because of this rarity that the Asscher is the most expensive cut – lack of supply plus steadily increasing demand. And of course, due to its seat as the most popular of all cuts, the round brilliant is the second most expensive.
A variety of factors can affect a diamond’s price. While supply and demand definitely play a significant role, the psychology of what the jeweler believes you will pay for a perception of difficulty or rarity also comes into play.
The answer to, are some diamond cuts more expensive than others is yes but many factors need to be accounted for. What is trendy at the time, the public's perception, and the industry. Happy shopping!
A diamond’s cut determines how much brilliance and fire can be seen as it catches and reflects the light a certain way – it’s all geometry. Interestingly enough, what costs the most for the gem cutter is not necessarily what costs the most to the consumer. Now, let us focus on appropriately pricing specific shapes.
There are ten common shapes into which diamonds are cut: Round (also known as round brilliant), Marquise, Asscher, Cushion, Pear, Oval, Emerald, Princess, Radiant, and Heart. All “fancy” shapes of diamonds (fancy being the term assigned to all diamonds that aren’t round) are less expensive at the wholesale level – they are often sold for more because jewelers know that people will believe a more complex or unusual cut should be worth more.
The princess cut, which is becoming more popular, is an octagonal cut which allows the most material from the rough diamond to be preserved. This serendipity occurs because the diamond’s crystals tend to form into a pair of octagons with square edges – edges that must be cut off to form a round. Therefore, the diamond cutter needs to do less work, and can sell the “larger” stone for more money.
Obviously, a different jeweler will have different supplies, and will put in their own individual markup. But in some cases, the final price either has to do with supply and demand, or the level of difficulty required to work with a particular diamond.
So you're still wondering, are some diamond cuts more expensive than others? Yes, for instance, princess cut diamonds tend to be more difficult to set, as they have especially sharp corners. And the Asscher cut is exceedingly rare (and gaining in popularity), as it is a patented cut that is only produced by the Asscher family in Amsterdam.
It’s because of this rarity that the Asscher is the most expensive cut – lack of supply plus steadily increasing demand. And of course, due to its seat as the most popular of all cuts, the round brilliant is the second most expensive.
A variety of factors can affect a diamond’s price. While supply and demand definitely play a significant role, the psychology of what the jeweler believes you will pay for a perception of difficulty or rarity also comes into play.
The answer to, are some diamond cuts more expensive than others is yes but many factors need to be accounted for. What is trendy at the time, the public's perception, and the industry. Happy shopping!
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Diamond Cuts: Different Patterns and Key Considerations
Diamonds are available in various intricate shapes. Among them round cut occupies a premier position for its brilliant radiance and pattern. According to market surveys, 3 out of 4 diamond buyers opt for this cut. The best round diamond cuts generate magical radiance with their 58-surface facets, including 33 crown and 25 pavilion surfaces. Apart from oval shape, fancy cuts also easily grab the attention of human eyes. Their various modification options enable the jewelers to set them as the center gemstone of the rings.
Diamond cuts can be broadly classified into three patterns. They are brilliant cut, step cut and the mixed one. 4C's control the factors behind the value of a fancy cut gemstone. Moreover, the girdle outline shape of the stone, the 'bow tie' factor and the length-width proportion influence its acceptance level. Shapes are crucial as they affect the stone value to a great extent. Since diamond jewelry sets are lifetime investments, one should keep certain basic things in mind. Apart from 4C's and certification aspects, bilaterally symmetrical patterns and 'bow tie' effect should be considered while finalizing a diamond-studded jewelry set. Let us discuss an overview of popular diamond cuts.
Marquise: The Marquise cut is the embodiment of ideal cut gemstone with 58 facts. The pavilion can also be modified with 4, 6 or 8 pavilion facets. However the number of facets depends on the gemstone's girdle outline. The Crown cut can be altered to the Marquise shape with the formation of 'French tip'. Here the bezel facet is removed. The length-width ration in Marquise shape is 1.75-2.25: 1.00.
PEAR - Pear shapes are ideal gemstone for rings and pendants. Its length-width ratio is generally 1.50:1. It pavilion consists of 4, 6, 7 or 8 surfaces.
PRINCESS - According to GIA's grading parameters, the Princess cut is regarded as a modified rectangular brilliant gemstone. It comes with either 50 facets with 21 crowns, 25 pavilions and 4 girdles or 58 surfaces with 21 crowns, 33 pavilions and 4 girdles. With sharp, square corners this diamond is ideal for rings.
EMERALD - This particular cut is regarded as a step cut with mirror-like 58 facts. Its number of crown, girdle and pavilion surfaces is 25, 8 and 25. Classic and regal charm makes the stone popular component of rings. According to the finger length, the Emerald shape should be chosen. For longer finger, square-type gemstone with 1.30:1.00 length-width ratio and for shorter-fingered hand, 1.50-1.75:1.00 ratio is ideal.
HEART - Heart is a popular shape for pendants. However before buying this diamond pattern, one should confirm that its lobe appearance is perfectly symmetrical with even height and breadth. The ideal cut heart shape generally comes with a length-to-width proportion of 1.00:1.00.
Diamond jewelry designs are virtually unlimited with unique shapes. Oval and gradient varieties are couple of other cuts that attract attentions. After years of extensive research and toils, jewelers come out with magnificent jewelry collections. Diamond ornaments are perfect combinations of Nature's gifts and human endeavor.
Diamond cuts can be broadly classified into three patterns. They are brilliant cut, step cut and the mixed one. 4C's control the factors behind the value of a fancy cut gemstone. Moreover, the girdle outline shape of the stone, the 'bow tie' factor and the length-width proportion influence its acceptance level. Shapes are crucial as they affect the stone value to a great extent. Since diamond jewelry sets are lifetime investments, one should keep certain basic things in mind. Apart from 4C's and certification aspects, bilaterally symmetrical patterns and 'bow tie' effect should be considered while finalizing a diamond-studded jewelry set. Let us discuss an overview of popular diamond cuts.
Marquise: The Marquise cut is the embodiment of ideal cut gemstone with 58 facts. The pavilion can also be modified with 4, 6 or 8 pavilion facets. However the number of facets depends on the gemstone's girdle outline. The Crown cut can be altered to the Marquise shape with the formation of 'French tip'. Here the bezel facet is removed. The length-width ration in Marquise shape is 1.75-2.25: 1.00.
PEAR - Pear shapes are ideal gemstone for rings and pendants. Its length-width ratio is generally 1.50:1. It pavilion consists of 4, 6, 7 or 8 surfaces.
PRINCESS - According to GIA's grading parameters, the Princess cut is regarded as a modified rectangular brilliant gemstone. It comes with either 50 facets with 21 crowns, 25 pavilions and 4 girdles or 58 surfaces with 21 crowns, 33 pavilions and 4 girdles. With sharp, square corners this diamond is ideal for rings.
EMERALD - This particular cut is regarded as a step cut with mirror-like 58 facts. Its number of crown, girdle and pavilion surfaces is 25, 8 and 25. Classic and regal charm makes the stone popular component of rings. According to the finger length, the Emerald shape should be chosen. For longer finger, square-type gemstone with 1.30:1.00 length-width ratio and for shorter-fingered hand, 1.50-1.75:1.00 ratio is ideal.
HEART - Heart is a popular shape for pendants. However before buying this diamond pattern, one should confirm that its lobe appearance is perfectly symmetrical with even height and breadth. The ideal cut heart shape generally comes with a length-to-width proportion of 1.00:1.00.
Diamond jewelry designs are virtually unlimited with unique shapes. Oval and gradient varieties are couple of other cuts that attract attentions. After years of extensive research and toils, jewelers come out with magnificent jewelry collections. Diamond ornaments are perfect combinations of Nature's gifts and human endeavor.
Saturday, June 11, 2011
Diamond Cuts Explained
o, you are in the middle of your research for buying engagement rings.
You have encountered the “4Cs” of diamonds which you understand is how diamonds are graded.
You understand Carat, Color and Clarity, but have encountered Cut.
You thought that Cut was the shape of the diamond, but now you are seeing figures and percentages to do with Cut. So, what is it?
Well, the diamond cuts can relate both to the shape of the diamond, and the way the diamond is proportioned.
Diamond cuts can be round brilliant cut, princess cut, cushion cut, oval cut, emerald cut, marquise cut etc etc. In other words, the actual SHAPE of the diamond.
At the same time, diamond cut can also refer to the way the diamond is proportioned, and the relative measurements associated with that.
All Diamond Cuts Are Not Equal
First and foremost, NOT ALL DIAMONDS HAVE CUT GRADES.
The GIA only started to assign cut grades to diamonds in early 2006….and that was for round diamonds only. It can be confusing when visiting certain websites, and you are presented with cut grades for all the shapes of diamonds. However, you can rest assured that the cut grade will probably have an asterisk next to it, referring you to the line of “this cut grade is provided by RETAILER to guide consumers”. In other words, the web retailer has looked at the diamond, seen it hasn’t got a cut grade on the diamond certificate, looked at the way the diamond is proportioned, and has assigned their own diamond cuts grade.
Misleading, yes to a certain extent. Because this cut grade will not appear on the diamond certificate.
Let’s assume therefore that you are interested in a diamond which has no cut grade. There are certain indicators on the diamond certificate which give you an idea of how the diamond is proportioned, so if there WAS a cut grade for the diamond, then you can pretty much work out what this would be. As you can appreciate, factors such as the symmetry, depth and table all work hand in hand with each other, and it is the combination of these three factors which will ultimately determine the overall cut grade.
The depth and table measurements differ by diamond shape. Below are the IDEALS. The further you move away from these parameters, the less well the diamond cuts, the less brilliance and sparkle from the diamond and, therefore, the less valuable the diamond.
Diamond Cuts Options
ROUND BRILLIANT CUT – Depth 58-63%, Table 53-60%
PRINCESS CUT – Depth 64-75%, Table 60-71%
EMERALD CUT – 60-65%, Table 60-64%
OVAL CUT – Depth 59-63%, Table 54-61%
MARQUISE CUT – Depth 59-63%, Table 54-61%
PEAR CUT – Depth 59-63%, Table 54-61%
Obviously, if the diamond has a FAIR symmetry grade, then the chances are that it won’t be assigned an EXCELLENT diamond cuts grade.
If you find a diamond which doesn’t have a cut grade assigned to it, then it would be worth speaking with your diamond specialists.
You have encountered the “4Cs” of diamonds which you understand is how diamonds are graded.
You understand Carat, Color and Clarity, but have encountered Cut.
You thought that Cut was the shape of the diamond, but now you are seeing figures and percentages to do with Cut. So, what is it?
Well, the diamond cuts can relate both to the shape of the diamond, and the way the diamond is proportioned.
Diamond cuts can be round brilliant cut, princess cut, cushion cut, oval cut, emerald cut, marquise cut etc etc. In other words, the actual SHAPE of the diamond.
At the same time, diamond cut can also refer to the way the diamond is proportioned, and the relative measurements associated with that.
All Diamond Cuts Are Not Equal
First and foremost, NOT ALL DIAMONDS HAVE CUT GRADES.
The GIA only started to assign cut grades to diamonds in early 2006….and that was for round diamonds only. It can be confusing when visiting certain websites, and you are presented with cut grades for all the shapes of diamonds. However, you can rest assured that the cut grade will probably have an asterisk next to it, referring you to the line of “this cut grade is provided by RETAILER to guide consumers”. In other words, the web retailer has looked at the diamond, seen it hasn’t got a cut grade on the diamond certificate, looked at the way the diamond is proportioned, and has assigned their own diamond cuts grade.
Misleading, yes to a certain extent. Because this cut grade will not appear on the diamond certificate.
Let’s assume therefore that you are interested in a diamond which has no cut grade. There are certain indicators on the diamond certificate which give you an idea of how the diamond is proportioned, so if there WAS a cut grade for the diamond, then you can pretty much work out what this would be. As you can appreciate, factors such as the symmetry, depth and table all work hand in hand with each other, and it is the combination of these three factors which will ultimately determine the overall cut grade.
The depth and table measurements differ by diamond shape. Below are the IDEALS. The further you move away from these parameters, the less well the diamond cuts, the less brilliance and sparkle from the diamond and, therefore, the less valuable the diamond.
Diamond Cuts Options
ROUND BRILLIANT CUT – Depth 58-63%, Table 53-60%
PRINCESS CUT – Depth 64-75%, Table 60-71%
EMERALD CUT – 60-65%, Table 60-64%
OVAL CUT – Depth 59-63%, Table 54-61%
MARQUISE CUT – Depth 59-63%, Table 54-61%
PEAR CUT – Depth 59-63%, Table 54-61%
Obviously, if the diamond has a FAIR symmetry grade, then the chances are that it won’t be assigned an EXCELLENT diamond cuts grade.
If you find a diamond which doesn’t have a cut grade assigned to it, then it would be worth speaking with your diamond specialists.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Diamond Cuts
At any diamond store, you'll see a variety of different diamond cuts. Diamond cuts are the distinctive shapes into which diamonds are cut. Some of the best known diamond cuts include the round brilliant, the princess cut, the emerald cut and the cushion cut. Note that "cut" in this case is different from the "cut" grade that appears on a diamond certificate.
So, which one is the best diamond cut? One of the great things about diamonds is that every single one is unique and has its own distinct properties, and this means that it's possible to find great looking diamonds at a good value regardless of the shape. Shape is largely a matter of personal preference, and it's not really possible to declare one particular shape the very best for every buyer's purposes. That being said, we have a few ideas as to which shapes tend to be the best in the areas of value, versatility, and overall quality.
Best Value: The Radiant Cut
Diamond cuts have a noticeable impact on the prices of diamonds. Round brilliant diamonds tend to be the most expensive, mainly because they are the most popular. The radiant cut can often offer superior value. Radiant cut diamonds are a little more difficult to find than most, and they aren't available in the same huge numbers that round brilliant diamonds or princess cut diamonds are, and as such they're often overlooked by buyers.
However, the radiant cut is perhaps the best of all diamond cuts in terms of value because, despite its lack of popularity, it has many of the same attractive features that the round brilliant offers, at a significantly lower price. The radiant cut has small facets, much like the round brilliant, so radiant cut diamonds can exhibit superior sparkle and brilliance even when they have internal flaws. Also, radiant cut diamonds can be used in a wide variety of settings thanks to their square shape (with rounded corners). This is why we think the radiant cut is the best diamond cut for value.
Best Versatility: The Princess Cut
Cuts with a square outline tend to be the most versatile; round diamonds, even with all their other advantages, can't be used in as many different types of settings. Settings such as the pavé setting require diamonds that can be set tightly together, and square or rectangular diamonds are much better suited to this purpose.
Of these diamonds, the princess cut is the best cut for versatility. Princess cuts are usually square in shape, with all sides being of equal length. Their small facets, and combination of rounded and angular facets, maximize the brilliance of the diamond while also creating a unique look which can be used effectively as a solitaire, or as a complementary diamond in just about any style of setting.
Best Overall Quality: The Round Brilliant Cut
The round brilliant is considered the king of cuts for a reason. It was the first major cut to use small facets, which help to make even slightly flawed diamonds look perfect. Its round shape and sides, meanwhile, make it much less susceptible to damage than cuts with straight sides or corners. Round brilliant diamonds do tend to be more expensive than others, but their durability enables them to maintain their appearance and value over the long term. This is why the round brilliant is considered the best diamond cut for overall quality.
So, which one is the best diamond cut? One of the great things about diamonds is that every single one is unique and has its own distinct properties, and this means that it's possible to find great looking diamonds at a good value regardless of the shape. Shape is largely a matter of personal preference, and it's not really possible to declare one particular shape the very best for every buyer's purposes. That being said, we have a few ideas as to which shapes tend to be the best in the areas of value, versatility, and overall quality.
Best Value: The Radiant Cut
Diamond cuts have a noticeable impact on the prices of diamonds. Round brilliant diamonds tend to be the most expensive, mainly because they are the most popular. The radiant cut can often offer superior value. Radiant cut diamonds are a little more difficult to find than most, and they aren't available in the same huge numbers that round brilliant diamonds or princess cut diamonds are, and as such they're often overlooked by buyers.
However, the radiant cut is perhaps the best of all diamond cuts in terms of value because, despite its lack of popularity, it has many of the same attractive features that the round brilliant offers, at a significantly lower price. The radiant cut has small facets, much like the round brilliant, so radiant cut diamonds can exhibit superior sparkle and brilliance even when they have internal flaws. Also, radiant cut diamonds can be used in a wide variety of settings thanks to their square shape (with rounded corners). This is why we think the radiant cut is the best diamond cut for value.
Best Versatility: The Princess Cut
Cuts with a square outline tend to be the most versatile; round diamonds, even with all their other advantages, can't be used in as many different types of settings. Settings such as the pavé setting require diamonds that can be set tightly together, and square or rectangular diamonds are much better suited to this purpose.
Of these diamonds, the princess cut is the best cut for versatility. Princess cuts are usually square in shape, with all sides being of equal length. Their small facets, and combination of rounded and angular facets, maximize the brilliance of the diamond while also creating a unique look which can be used effectively as a solitaire, or as a complementary diamond in just about any style of setting.
Best Overall Quality: The Round Brilliant Cut
The round brilliant is considered the king of cuts for a reason. It was the first major cut to use small facets, which help to make even slightly flawed diamonds look perfect. Its round shape and sides, meanwhile, make it much less susceptible to damage than cuts with straight sides or corners. Round brilliant diamonds do tend to be more expensive than others, but their durability enables them to maintain their appearance and value over the long term. This is why the round brilliant is considered the best diamond cut for overall quality.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Some Of The Most Popular Diamond Cuts And Where They Came From
The love that many people have for diamonds and the beauty of the way they reflect light has led to the implementation of many diverse cuts of diamond. Some of the earlier types of cuts include the emerald and the round but these days they is a great variety to choose from and some of them are quite expensive.
One of the most popular cuts is known as the round brilliant cut which was first done in the 1600s in Venice, Italy. This is still the premier cut when the raw diamond is in an octahedron shape. Sometimes half of the stone gets cut away when shaping a diamond but in many cases two stones can be created from one octahedron. Raw stones that have more unusual shapes are usually reserved for fancier cuts like heart shapes and the marquis cut. The first brilliant cuts only had 17 facets and were called double cut but the process was rapidly improved to 33 facets which led to the stones being referred to as triple cut brilliants.
By the 1800s many new innovations came about in the diamond industry due to in large part, much better tools for cutting the precious stones. By the early 1900s a jeweler by the name of Tolkowsky took things a step further by marrying the talent of cutting stones to the study of light and refraction which resulted in much more beautiful diamonds. He also authored a book that was very popular called Diamond Design. His work led to much of the modern methods of diamond cutting we see today and also encouraged the mathematical approach that is taken today that goes so far to create more fiery and brilliant stones we now see.
From only a couple of different types of cuts the process has evolved to include princess cuts, pears, ovals, and heart shapes as well as many others. Some of the more expensive cuts have actually been patented. One such cut is called the Ashoka diamond which is an oblong shape with the ends rounded and brilliant. This cut requires that the stone being used be over three carats and the end result is a diamond that is not only incredibly beautiful but very expensive as well. The Tiffany company also has a very highly prized cut that is called the Lucida. Like the aforementioned Ashoka, it is very expensive and is normally seen on the hands of the fiance's and brides of wealthy men.
One of the most popular cuts is known as the round brilliant cut which was first done in the 1600s in Venice, Italy. This is still the premier cut when the raw diamond is in an octahedron shape. Sometimes half of the stone gets cut away when shaping a diamond but in many cases two stones can be created from one octahedron. Raw stones that have more unusual shapes are usually reserved for fancier cuts like heart shapes and the marquis cut. The first brilliant cuts only had 17 facets and were called double cut but the process was rapidly improved to 33 facets which led to the stones being referred to as triple cut brilliants.
By the 1800s many new innovations came about in the diamond industry due to in large part, much better tools for cutting the precious stones. By the early 1900s a jeweler by the name of Tolkowsky took things a step further by marrying the talent of cutting stones to the study of light and refraction which resulted in much more beautiful diamonds. He also authored a book that was very popular called Diamond Design. His work led to much of the modern methods of diamond cutting we see today and also encouraged the mathematical approach that is taken today that goes so far to create more fiery and brilliant stones we now see.
From only a couple of different types of cuts the process has evolved to include princess cuts, pears, ovals, and heart shapes as well as many others. Some of the more expensive cuts have actually been patented. One such cut is called the Ashoka diamond which is an oblong shape with the ends rounded and brilliant. This cut requires that the stone being used be over three carats and the end result is a diamond that is not only incredibly beautiful but very expensive as well. The Tiffany company also has a very highly prized cut that is called the Lucida. Like the aforementioned Ashoka, it is very expensive and is normally seen on the hands of the fiance's and brides of wealthy men.
Wednesday, June 8, 2011
Different Types Of Diamond Cuts
Though most people associate diamonds with brilliant, glittering, colorless gems, a rough diamond is actually looks much like an ordinary, filthy rock. Diamonds are extremely good for reflecting light, but they must be cut and polished first. There are several different cuts designed for all of the different diamond types, as a jewel must be cut so that it can reflect all of the light that it is exposed to, to the best of its natural abilities.
The process of cutting the diamond is also essential when determining its cost, quality, and value. Jewelers take the process very seriously, taking several years simply to cut one gem. The process is very mathematical, as the facets of the diamond must be set perfectly, so that all of the angles are even and placed to bring out the color and glamor in the jewel. The International Gemology Institute dedicates a considerable section of their IGI appraisals to an analysis of a diamond’s cut.
Even though computers and lasers are used in modern day diamond cutting, around fifty percent of the total rock is lost in the cutting and polishing process. The most popular cut is affectionately referred to as the brilliant cut. A brilliant is round on top, though the gem itself is cone shaped as to maximize the amount of light that goes through the top. Octahedral shaped diamonds are usually subjected to the brilliant cut, as it is makes it easier to craft two gemstones from a single rock.
Cuts that are not brilliant, but still look nice, are called "fancy cuts." Fancy cuts are used for oddly shaped diamonds or for fashion and art. The princess cut is the second most popular next to the brilliant cut. It is in the shape of an inverted pyramid, with the uppermost face a square or rectangle. Many GIA diamond rings are crafted with a princess cut. It was invented in the 1960s, making it a fairly young cut of diamonds when compared with styles that have been around since medieval times.
The princess cut is also sometimes called the "square modified brilliant," possibly because both styles are so shiny and popular. However, the princess cut is entirely different than the brilliant cut. The style can be traced back to the "French cut," which is one of its most direct predecessors. Unlike most cuts, it manages to utilize 80% of the original diamond unlike several other cuts of diamond. This causes the cut to be cheaper to consumers, and more popular amongst retailers and jewelers.
Before diamond cutting, during Middle Ages, diamonds in jewelry were used in their rough states, the poorer quality diamonds simply being ignored and cast aside. Diamonds began to be more refined as people started to polish them, creating slight facets, or cutting a more desired shape from the less appealing rocks. Guilds of diamond polishers were formed, and the art was developed and caught on like wildfire until it turned into the extremely high-tech practice that it is today.
The process of cutting the diamond is also essential when determining its cost, quality, and value. Jewelers take the process very seriously, taking several years simply to cut one gem. The process is very mathematical, as the facets of the diamond must be set perfectly, so that all of the angles are even and placed to bring out the color and glamor in the jewel. The International Gemology Institute dedicates a considerable section of their IGI appraisals to an analysis of a diamond’s cut.
Even though computers and lasers are used in modern day diamond cutting, around fifty percent of the total rock is lost in the cutting and polishing process. The most popular cut is affectionately referred to as the brilliant cut. A brilliant is round on top, though the gem itself is cone shaped as to maximize the amount of light that goes through the top. Octahedral shaped diamonds are usually subjected to the brilliant cut, as it is makes it easier to craft two gemstones from a single rock.
Cuts that are not brilliant, but still look nice, are called "fancy cuts." Fancy cuts are used for oddly shaped diamonds or for fashion and art. The princess cut is the second most popular next to the brilliant cut. It is in the shape of an inverted pyramid, with the uppermost face a square or rectangle. Many GIA diamond rings are crafted with a princess cut. It was invented in the 1960s, making it a fairly young cut of diamonds when compared with styles that have been around since medieval times.
The princess cut is also sometimes called the "square modified brilliant," possibly because both styles are so shiny and popular. However, the princess cut is entirely different than the brilliant cut. The style can be traced back to the "French cut," which is one of its most direct predecessors. Unlike most cuts, it manages to utilize 80% of the original diamond unlike several other cuts of diamond. This causes the cut to be cheaper to consumers, and more popular amongst retailers and jewelers.
Before diamond cutting, during Middle Ages, diamonds in jewelry were used in their rough states, the poorer quality diamonds simply being ignored and cast aside. Diamonds began to be more refined as people started to polish them, creating slight facets, or cutting a more desired shape from the less appealing rocks. Guilds of diamond polishers were formed, and the art was developed and caught on like wildfire until it turned into the extremely high-tech practice that it is today.
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