Differences Between Diamond Cuts and Shapes
While many people think diamond cuts and shapes are the same, they are not. The shape refers to the actual shape of the stone. For example, shapes include round, emerald, pear or heart-shaped. A diamond cut is what impacts the stone’s brilliance and how it reflects light. Regardless of shape, an improperly cut diamond will look lackluster.
Cut is also one of the 4 C’s of diamond grading, which also include diamond clarity, carat and color. A jeweler cutting the stone must determine the proper depth and diameter to achieve the proper look. Grades of the cut you see in certified diamonds include fair & poor, good, very good, premium and ideal.
If you purchase a diamond without a certificate, you can look to see the quality of the cut. Look at certified diamonds to see the cuts and amount of sparkle. With ongoing observation, it is easier to tell which diamonds are certified and the ones that are not. Cut is an important factor when determining the quality and price of a diamond.
Ideal cut diamonds are reserved for round shapes to deliver a high level of brilliance for a premium price. Premium grade cuts also make eye-catching round diamonds but cost a bit less. Other shapes require certain cuts to refract light. A good cut still captures light but is less brilliant. Sometimes buyers on a budget opt for a fair or poor cut to get a bigger diamond. The stone can still be quite beautiful if the buyer keeps the remaining 3 C’s in mind.
