CUT
SINCE THEIR DISCOVERY, DIAMONDS HAVE BEEN THE SUBJECT OF LEGENDS
Their beauty inspires romance and intrigue, the largest and the finest stones are named, often for their origin and even sometimes for children. They are documented and celebrated, their travels noted, their owners the subject of curiosity and discussion. The largest stones sometimes are kept years before they are cut in order to preserve the size and maximise the stones best assets. Careful analysis and examination of the stones are combined with calculations and the stone cutters expertise until all possible outcomes have been considered. Then and only then will the first cut be made
Many famous stones have disappeared, sometimes to reappear again centuries later. The stories of these rare gemstones have captivated peoples imagination for generations. As such much time has been dedicated to the history of famous pieces and the succession of ownership.
It’s no surprise that since the first stone was cleaved, diamonds have inspired us.
Round diamond cut varieties
Diamonds are the hardest known substance on earth.
It can only be cut by other diamonds. In the modern world many creative stone cutters have devised more and more ways to showcase the beauty and brilliance of a stone. Thanks to technology cutters have been able to model new ways and new designs to create ever more exciting jewellery.
5.01ct Radiant Cut Diamond in Fancy Yellow VS1
From the Sarusi Collection
We cannot underestimate the importance of the cut of a gemstone.
Without a beautiful cut diamonds are simply stones. All diamond cuts are designed to enhance the brilliance and fire of a stone, while eliminating or minimising any flaws or imperfections.
And a well cut gem will be more durable and less likely to chip or fracture so it isn’t only aesthetic, its for longevity. This said, not all diamonds cut to a shape are created equal. A perfectly cut diamond should send out a lively fire and brilliance that dazzles the eye. a millimetre or so difference may still be ‘acceptable’ for certification purposes, but it will lose that liveliness that is so magical. Many of the top global jewellery houses pride themselves on only selecting the diamonds that have that extra fire and personality for their clients. So yes, you can easily buy a dozen diamonds that meet all the same certification criteria of “Excellent” but seeing it next to a truly lively diamond you will immediately see the difference.
When you question why the price can vary so much with the same apparent criteria, its not about competitive pricing , its about rarity and perfection. A diamond of Ideal proportions can cost 20-30% more than one with Excellent or Good proportions. You can buy it cheaper but it won’t be the same.
Simply said, a beautifully proportioned diamond will be worth more and have all the elements diamonds are famous for.
5.62ct Ceylon Royal Blue Sapphire with diamonds in 18kt WG
from the Sarusi Collection
With gems like Rubies, Sapphires and Emeralds the cuts are equally important.
Particularly with coloured stones, the cut will affect the intensity or colour and ability of the stone to capture the light. When a stone of excellent colour is cut, the cutter makes every effort to enhance that colour and keep as much of the size as possible. Often in coloured stones the size is given precedence and you will be able to see faded areas of colour where the distribution of the colour is uneven.
When considering coloured precious gems of investment value a gem may be recut to a smaller size to enhance the stone further and this is one of the situations where a smaller size may give you better value.
The best stones are cut with this in mind.
