Tuesday, April 21, 2009

Find the Best Diamond Cut for Mom on Mother’s Day

With Mother’s Day at stone’s throw, it is certain that everyone will have a special gift in mind for their mom this year. And for those who have settled their choice on loose diamonds, here is a piece of knowledge about the different cuts you could buy from.

A diamond cut is usually misinterpreted as its shape. But in fact it is a totally different concept. A diamond cut refers to the way the diamond is cut when shaping it for polishing. It is the symmetric and proportionate layout of facets which determines the brilliance and the fire of a diamond, thus making it look appealing.

Following are the three basic facet arrangements commonly used in the world of diamonds-

1. Brilliant Cut- Brilliant cut is the most common cut found in the diamond market. This is because it possesses the optics that appeal the most to an eye. A good modern brilliant cut has 58 facets where each facet radiates from center towards the end, creating maximum fire and scintillation. Brilliant cut is very widely used also due to its safe shape, which ensures the buyer of a secured mounting without much risk of cracking or breaking.

2. Step Cut- Step cut diamonds hold concentric parallel rows of comparatively fewer facets. The square shape step cut diamond may look like princess brilliant cut to many, but on a keen study it becomes clear that step cuts lack fire and scintillation. That is why step cut baguettes are often used in a ring beside a brilliant center diamond to enhance the center piece. Even the slightest of flaws and inclusions generally come naked to the eyes in a step cut diamond. Therefore step cuts should always be given to diamond crystals having maximum clarity and colorlessness.

3. Mixed Cut- As the name suggests, mixed cuts are a blend of brilliant and step cuts. The usual arrangement is in such a way that the crown is cut in one style and the pavilion in another. Mixed cuts are generally found in colored gemstones where the existence of color is the positive feature unlike diamonds.

Experts explain the importance of a good cut by saying that even if a diamond has an excellent color grade and clarity, it can lose all its brilliance and beauty with a poor cut. Thus it becomes highly crucial for you to judge the diamond before you purchase it on this Mother’s Day. It is advisable to study a lot of diamonds which will help you make better comparisons even in the future. Also remember to buy loose diamonds from a well-reputed jeweler who provides you its proper certification.