Complete Guide to Diamond Cut

Cut: The Key to a Diamond's Sparkle

A diamond's cut determines how efficiently it reflects light. A well-cut diamond appears brighter, more brilliant, and more sparkly than a poorly cut diamond.

Too Shallow

• Light escapes through the bottom of the diamond.
• Reduced brilliance and sparkle.
• May appear larger but lacks visual performance.

Ideal Cut

• Light enters and reflects back through the top.
• Maximum brilliance, fire, and sparkle.
• Best overall light performance.

Too Deep

• Light escapes through the sides of the diamond.
• Reduced brightness and sparkle.
• May appear smaller than its actual carat weight.

Why Cut Matters

Cut is often considered the most important of the 4Cs because it has the greatest impact on a diamond's beauty and sparkle.

Bottom Line: An ideal cut returns the most light to the eye, creating the brilliance and sparkle diamonds are known for.