GLOBAL GEMOLOGY - RARE GEMS & JEWELS
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The 4 Cs:  Cut


The value of a diamond depends on the 4 Cs:  cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.

Scroll down for more information on diamond cuts.

Cut Grade

GIA Cut Grading Scale

The quality of a diamond's cut directly affects its brilliance.  The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has developed a Diamond Cut Grade Scale that grades a diamond's overall proportions.  It's based on the assessment of the following 7 components:

• Brightness

• Fire

• Scintillation

• Weight Ratio

• Durability

• Polish

• Symmetry​
​
Diamond proportions illustration
​
​The following measurements are factored into the overall cut grade:


• Table Size

• Total Depth Percentage

• Crown Height

• Crown Angle

• Pavilion Depth

• Pavilion Angle

• Girdle Thickness

• Star Facet Length

• Lower Girdle Facet Length
​

• Culet
​
GIA diamond cut grade factors

Diamond Shapes / Cutting Styles

Types of diamond shapes / cutting styles
Photo courtesy of James & Company

• Marquise Brilliant Cut

• Radiant Cut

• Trillion Cut

• Baguette

• Oval Brilliant Cut

• Emerald Cut

• Princess Cut

• Round Brilliant Cut

• Asscher Cut

• Cushion Cut

• Tapered Baguette

• Heart Shape Brilliant Cut

• Pear Shape Brilliant Cut

​(& more)
​

Diamond Shapes Gallery

All photos courtesy of Scott Papper, GIA GG, AJP, CMA (NAJA)
  • HOME
  • ABOUT US
  • SHOP
  • GEMOLOGY
    • GEM ENCYCLOPEDIA
    • DECORATIVE PRINTS
    • THE ART OF GEMOLOGY
  • APPRAISALS
    • INSURANCE
    • DIVORCE
    • ESTATE TAX
    • ESTATE DISTRIBUTION
    • CHARITABLE DONATION
    • LIQUIDATION
    • APPRAISALS THRU EMAIL
  • SELL YOUR JEWELRY
  • JEWELRY EDUCATION
    • DIAMOND FACTS
    • JEWELER DIRECTORY
    • JEWELRY PERIODS
    • POCKET WATCHES
    • NATIVE AMERICAN JEWELRY
  • GLOSSARY