What makes some diamonds shine and sparkle more than others? Simply put, diamond cuts make all the difference when it comes to dazzling, brilliant diamonds.
Even flawless diamonds are cheated of brilliance when the cut is not ideal. And smaller, less expensive diamonds can be dazzling when the cut is right. Furthermore, the right cut can help mask flaws in a diamond, and affect the color and clarity of the diamond.
Types of Diamond Cuts
Without getting too scientific, it’s important to know that the reflection of light off the top of the diamond at just the right angle is what makes a diamond shine. The reflection of light is based on the cut of the diamond. There are three diamond cuts: shallow, ideal, and deep. The shallow cut will be dull because it won’t reflect much light.
Even though a deep cut diamond will appear larger than it actually is, it will also be dark and dull because the light does not reflect off the top of the diamond, but instead is lost from the sides of the diamond.
As you might guess, the ideal cut is best. It is a cut that is not too deep and not too shallow, but just right for the light to reflect off the top of the diamond.
Why is the Cut so Important?
The ideal cut is a cut that causes light to reflect off the top of the diamond, instead of the sides. When the light bounces off the top of the diamond, the result is an eye-catching brilliant diamond. When the light bounces off the sides, the diamond will appear dull and dark.
The width and depth of the diamond cut will determine how effective the cut is. In turn, the cut of the stone will decide the grade of the diamond and will enhance or hinder the color and clarity as well. Today, serious jewelers use computer programs to map out the diamond cuts that will provide the best light reflection and create brilliant diamonds.