Diamond Information: Cut

Of all of the four Cs of diamonds, Cut may be the most important as it relates to the sparkle and overall brilliance of a stone. In fact, the cut can make a slightly inferior stone shine in the eyes of its owner, so be sure that you pay attention to this factor as you search for diamond jewelry online. The term "cut" refers to not only the shape of the stone, but its proportion, symmetry and polish.

Proportion refers to the relationship between the diamond's angles and facets. Most diamond stones are cut with 58 facets, which are individual flat surfaces. Each facet reflects and refracts light.

Symmetry applies to the overall precision of the cuts that are made into the stone. This harkens back to basic geometry class: If a stone is precisely cut and those angles are symmetrical, think of how the light will better refract and reflect off the facets.

Polish is the overall condition of your stone. If a diamond is free of scratches or other blemish-type issues, it will sparkle with even more brilliance. Polish can be affected during the manufacturing process and simply through the native condition of a stone, but remember that your overall care of a diamond can affect its polish.

Diamond styles

Because of the importance of proportion, symmetry and polish, consumers also must take into account a stone's inherent shape and condition. Meaning, certain stones could be more naturally beautiful when displayed in certain styles. So while you might desire a round brilliant or marquise cuts (styles), the stones in your selection palette might actually look better in another design. Also remember that the other elements of the "four Cs" also will impact the overall beauty of your stone: You may select a stone with a good clarity, but the type of cut that you select could diminish that flawless beauty. Keep this in mind as you approach the design and selection process.

There are many styles of diamonds available. Remember that the term "cut" is treated two different ways with diamonds: One in the sense of proportion, symmetry and polish; the other in terms of the overall style and presentation of the stone. So if you hear about a "princess cut," that refers to the style of the stone.

• Brilliant-cut styles include round, heart, oval and marquise cuts. The round brilliant cut is probably considered the most popular style of diamond because it shows off a stone's sparkle very well. Many women who have long, slender fingers select marquise styles because they accentuate their hands.
• Step-cut styles feature rows of facets that are positioned so they look like a series of steps. Common step cuts are shaped into emerald or baguette styles; most step-cut diamonds are rectangular. The emerald style is considered among the most classic and timeless styles available.
• Mixed-cut styles are a combination of brilliant- and step-cut styles. The most common form of a mixed-cut style is the princess (or radiant) cut diamond. Princess cuts are gaining in popularity and are considered a more modern interpretation of diamond design.