The 4C’s – Cut

That flashing, fiery effect that makes diamonds so mesmerizing!

Of The 4C’s, cut is the most important to many people, and yet you might not even realise it! This is because cut determines “brilliance”, which essentially means sparkle.

As shown in the images above, when a diamond is cut with the proper proportions, light is returned out of the top of the diamond. If it is cut too shallow, light leaks out of the bottom. Too deep and it escapes out of the side. Put simply; the better the cut, the more your diamond will sparkle!

There’s also a number of different cut grades which affect the price you pay, but how do you know which cut grade is right for you? We stock a range of cuts to suite a range of budgets, but the only real test will be how YOU feel when you see it!

Every diamond is graded for cut on the following scale:

EXCELLENT

The rarest most expensive cut, designed to reflect the maximum amount of light for optimum fire and brilliance.

VERY GOOD

Barely distinguishable from an excellent cut to the naked eye, but at a much lower price.

GOOD

Reflects most of the light that enters it, but much less expensive than a very good cut.

FAIR

Cut to maximize carat weight while maintaining some sparkle. Still a quality diamond, but a fair cut will not be as brilliant as a good cut.

We hope this guide gives you a better understanding of how cut will affect your diamond’s sparkle, now learn about the second of The 4Cs, colour.

Please also take a look at our Engagement & Wedding rings page to view a selection of our range.

Or if you feel you’ve read enough and would prefer to see your diamond’s sparkle in person, please call into our showroom in Leeds city centre, at 1 Lands Lane. Or contact us with your questions.