Diamond Cut

The first most important thing to remember is that the diamond cut is different from the diamond shape. For more on diamond shapes read Unique Shapes of Diamonds.The diamond cut refers to a diamond’s proportions such as its depth, width, uniformity of its facets as well as its characteristics, which make the diamond unique – shine, brilliance, durability etc.

A good cut for a diamond is a truly essential quality. A diamond with excellent color and clarity will not display its brilliance, if not cut well enough and if its components don't interact with light as they should.

The characteristics of a good cut for a diamond are:

Diamond depth and width

The proportions making up the diamond’s depth and width will have a significant influence on the brilliance of a diamond.

Diamond Symmetry

This characteristic refers to the alignment of a diamond's facets, its flat and polished surfaces. The facets should be cut to achieve the best play of light. Diamonds flash when light bounces among the facets of the stone. Light will not reflect as it should if facets are not positioned correctly, thereby diminishing its brilliance.

Diamond Polish

The surface of the facets should be smooth and polished so that light can pass through them.

Read more on diamond cutting to understand about cleaving, bruiting, cutting and polishing if a diamond.