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.
