The Different Types of Diamond Cuts

The cut of a diamond is the most important step in its polishing process. The cut decides the diamonds brilliance and its lustre as well. The cut does not refer to the shape of the diamond, but the symmetry and the polish of its angles that reflect the light and gives a diamond its luminosity. There are a variety of cuts that have evolved from the old and simple ‘point cut’ which was used in the middle ages. Prior to this, diamonds were used in their natural octahedral state which was poorly formed.

However, with precise mathematical calculations of angles and the properties of light, there are a variety of diamond cuts that have been developed that exploit the refractive property of diamonds to the fullest. All luxury diamond jewellery brands make sure that their diamonds are cut with flawless precision to ensure the maximum brilliance.

The choice of cut is usually decided by the natural shape of the diamond to preserve its carat weight. Extreme precaution is taken in this to ensure maximum gem quality, in terms of lustre as well as carat weight. The choice of the cut is also determined by the popularity of different shapes among the consumers. 

Here’s a list of cuts popular with most luxury diamond jewellery brands:

1)     The Round Brilliant Cut: This cut is the most popular cut given to a diamond on account of its saleability  and insurability (Wikipedia). The cut consists of 58 facets cut into the diamond with a table cut on the top. There are standards set for the ‘ideal’ brilliant cut like the Tolkowsky Brilliant and the American Ideal. These are set ideals based on mathematical calculations taking into consideration with the brilliance of the diamond as well as the lustre.

2)     Fancy Cuts: The standard round brilliant can be modified into a number of shares and these fall into the fancy cut category. There are many shared like the heart shape, the oval shape and the pear shaped versions. These cuts are possible due to the development of cutting edge modern technology that makes these shapes possible without losing carat weight of the diamond. A few more shapes have been patented like the King cut and Queen cut which have a few more facets than the normal round brilliant.

3)     Step Cuts: Diamonds that are given a rectangular or square outlines are given step cuts. Their corners are usually truncated so that the sharp points do not weaken the stone by cleaving or fracturing. These cats are not as popular as the round brilliant cut or the mixed cuts.

There are many more varieties that have been patented by different diamond jewellery brands. Each cut focuses on a particular property of the stone, either the lustre or the brilliance. Luxury diamond jewellery brands employ the most skilled diamond cutters to ensure that the stones used in their designs are of the highest quality. Choose your jewellery after doing research on the kind of cut you want and its special significance. After all, a diamond is a girls best friend and best friends have to be evaluated carefully!