Ideal cut diamonds

The cut of a Diamond is as important in establishing a gem's value as its weight, color and clarity. However, this hasn't always been the case, and until the Middle Ages neither the ability nor the technology existed to sculpt the world's toughest material. Things only really took off in 1919 when a Belgian diamond cutter named Marcel Tolkowsky applied his mathematical mind to perfecting the 58 facets of the round brilliant cut. Over a century later the round brilliant remains the most popular cut, accounting for approximately 75% of the market.

Finding Your Ideal Cut Diamond

Round Brilliant Cut: With 33 facets on the crown and 25 on the pavilion (lower portion) the 'round' produces the maximum fire and brilliance, which explains why it's something of a yardstick by which all other cuts are measured. Oval Cut: With the same number of facets as the 'round' the oval cut has a similar sparkle. Care should be taken choosing a well proportioned cut: If the length: width ratio is out the diamond may look like a badly shaped 'round' or lack luster. Marquise Cut: Legend has it that this cut was commissioned at the behest of King Louis XV to resemble the smile of his mistress: Marquise de Pompadour. The most pleasing Marquise cuts have a length-width ratio of 2:1. Pear Cut: A classic 'teardrop' shape ideal for earrings and pendants. Depth is especially important in a pear cut as it affects the gem's brilliance. Emerald Cut: The long 'step cut' facets mean the Emerald cut tends to flash, rather than sparkle. The effect is dramatic, but care must be taken choosing the right stone to have cut as internal flaws are easier to see. Radiant Cut: Similar in shape to the Emerald Cut, but with beveled faceted edges that give extra sparkle. Trillion Cut: One of the most striking diamond cuts, trillions are generally triangular in shape with a brilliant-cut crown. Trillion cuts are celebrated for producing a barrage of multi-colored flashes of light (known as fire). Princess Cut: Representing the contemporary face of diamond cutting the Princess Cut marries a basic square shape with numerous facets. The result is both fire and brilliance.

Maintaining Ideal Cut Diamond

Although diamond is the toughest substance known to man, using a chlorine-based or abrasive cleaner won't do your diamond any favors. Similarly diamonds shouldn't be worn if you're likely to come into contact with chlorine (such as when using household bleach or in the swimming pool) as it will dull the gem's brilliance. Once in a while it's worth splashing out to have your diamond ring professionally cleaned with an ultrasonic cleaner.

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