Cut
Cut
Of all the 4 Cs, the cut of a diamond is the most important in influencing the color and the sparkle in the diamond, as the facets determine how light is reflected in the stone. Most people think of the cut as being the shape of the stone, but the quality of the cut is also important – the proportions and symmetry and the finish of each surface.
Diamonds are cut into a wide range of shapes, within three main styles:
- Brilliant Cut
Brilliant cut diamonds are the most familiar and popular shape. These are cut so that they are particularly brilliant, as the name suggests. The general shape is usually conical with facets cut to reflect light through the stone as much as possible. Round cut brilliants are the most popular, followed by the square Princess cut. Other shapes include Oval, Pear and Heart cut diamonds.
Brilliant Cut, either Round or Princess, will be the most flexible diamonds to buy for use in a range of different settings.
- Step Cut
Step Cut diamonds have rows of facets, arranged in steps. These are usually a rectangular shape. Examples include Baguette Cut Diamonds.
- Mixed Cut
A combination of the above styles.
Other cuts do exist, but these are far and away the most common cuts that you will find.
Read more about: Color, Clarity, Carats