The
classic diamond is, to most people, a round gem of sparkling white
brilliance with a kaleidoscope of dazzling facets to entice the
eye.
Yes and
no. Diamonds are natural crystals of varying size and shape formed
in the earth over millions of years. The traditional round brilliant
diamond, though the most popular diamond shape of all, is hardly the
whole story.
By the
diamond cutter's art these crystals are carved into gems of
spectacular and whimsical beauty. A cutter's skill will produce a
diamond of the greatest size with the fewest flaws and the most
brilliance.
Round
Brilliant Diamonds
This
shape has set the standard for all other diamond shapes, and
accounts for more than 75% of diamonds sold today. Its 58-facet cut,
divided among its crown (top), girdle (widest part) and pavilion
(base), is calibrated through a precise formula to achieve the
maximum in fire and brilliance.
Oval
Diamonds
An
even, perfectly symmetrical design popular among women with small
hands or short fingers. Its elongated shape gives a flattering
illusion of length to the hand.
Marquise
Diamonds
An
elongated shape with pointed ends inspired by the fetching smile of
the Marquise de Pompadour and commissioned by the Sun King, France's
Louis XIV, who wanted a diamond to match it. It is gorgeous when
used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller diamonds.
Pear
Shaped Diamonds
A
hybrid cut, combining the best of the oval and the marquise, it is
shaped most like a sparkling teardrop. It also belongs to that
category of diamond whose design most complements a hand with small
or average-length fingers. It is particularly beautiful for pendants
or earrings.
Heart
Shaped Diamonds
This
ultimate symbol of romance is essentially a pear-shaped diamond with
a cleft at the top. The skill of the cutter determines the beauty of
the cut. Look for a stone with an even shape and a well-defined
outline.
Emerald
Cut Diamond
This
is a rectangular shape with cut corners. It is known as a step cut
because its concentric broad, flat planes resemble stair steps.
Since inclusions and inferior color are more pronounced in this
particular cut, take pains to select a stone of superior clarity and
color. More about the Emerald
Cut Diamond
Princess
Cut Diamond
This
is a square or rectangular cut with numerous sparkling facets. It is
a relatively new cut and often finds its way into solitaire
engagement rings. Flattering to a hand with long fingers, it is
often embellished with triangular stones at its sides. Because of
its design, this cut requires more weight to be directed toward the
diamond's depth in order to maximize brilliance. Depth percentages
of 70% to 78% are not uncommon. More about the Princess
Cut Diamond
Trilliant
Diamonds
This
is a spectacular wedge of brittle fire. First developed in
Amsterdam, the exact design can vary depending on a particular
diamond's natural characteristics and the cutter's personal
preferences. It may be a traditional triangular shape with pointed
corners or a more rounded triangular shape with 25 facets on the
crown, 19 facets on the pavilion, and a polished girdle. It is
definitely for the adventurous.
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