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Diamond Buying: cut
This refers to the way the many facets in the diamond have been shaped or "cut." But don't confuse a diamond's cut with a diamond's shape. The two are related, but not the same.
 Each facet in the diamond must be cut to a precise formula to reflect the maximum light and give the diamond it's sparkling beauty. Different diamond shapes require different cuts, so the cut on a marquis shape differs from a round-brilliant cut. Ultimately, it's the cut that ensures the diamond's "fire." Please note that cut is the only factor among the 4Cs that is determined by the human hand.
Understanding how a diamond's cut affects price can be confusing. Each of a diamond's 58 facets must be cut to specific proportions. These proportions should fall within a prescribed range. That range differs for each diamond shape. If the proportions of the cut do not fall within the acceptable range, your diamond will look dull and lifeless and thus be less valuable.
To better explain cut, we'll use the round-brilliant shape as an example.
Two of the most important aspects of cut are table and depth. The table is the large facet on top of the diamond. Depth refers to length of a diamond as measured from the center of the table to the diamond's culet (tip). Each of these are measured as a percentage of the diamond's circumference.
When evaluating a round-brilliant cut, the depth and table proportions should fall within the following ranges:
- Depth 57-63%
- Table 58-65%
When your diamond is certified by one of the three independent labs, the report indicates whether or not the table and depth fall within these acceptable ranges. This is just another example of why a certified lab report is so critical.
Polish and symmetry are two other important aspects of cut. Polish refers to the smoothness of the diamond's surface. Symmetry refers to overall proportions to which the facets have been cut. As you might expect each of these plays an important part in the way your diamond reflects light. Your diamond's polish and symmetry are graded in your lab report. You should only accept polish and symmetry grades of good or higher.
The prices listed in the Rappaport Diamond Report assume that all aspects of a diamond's cut fall within acceptable ranges. If any aspects of your diamond's cut are less than acceptable, your diamond will have a lower value. In some rare cases (less than 10% of the time), all aspects of a diamond's cut are superior, and thus the diamond is more sought after. Typically speaking, you can expect to pay a premium for these rare stones.
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