Diamond Guide

A round diamonds cut grading

The diamond's cut, often mistaken for its shape, is the critical factor determining its brilliance and sparkle. The breathtaking beauty of a diamond emerges from a harmonious interplay of three optical effects:

  1. Brightness: The captivating sparkle of white light reflections.
  2. Fire: The dazzling flashes of vibrant color.
  3. Scintillation: The mesmerizing dance of light and dark areas.

The grading encapsulates these 3 optical effects.

The pattern of a diamond, determined by the size, arrangement, and contrast of these light and dark areas, is a crucial element in its allure. This pattern, resulting from both internal and external reflections, must exhibit sufficient contrast to create a sharp, defined appearance. Only then can a diamond truly shine with its full potential, captivating the eye with its brilliance and beauty.

Currently, cut grading applies exclusively to round diamonds due to their consistent proportions, allowing for precise measurement of light performance.

Cut grades range from Excellent to Very Good, Good, Fair, and Poor. An Excellent cut diamond boasts optimal light performance, primarily determined by the ideal balance between its table size (top surface) and depth. This meticulous craftsmanship ensures a dazzling display of light, fire, and scintillation, making the diamond truly captivating.

GIA cut grading scale

Moregola's Expert Tip

In regards to jewelry we generally recommend prioritizing Excellent or Very Good cut diamonds for their superior brilliance.

However, a Good cut can offer exceptional value without significant compromise if budget constraints are a concern.