Diamond Cut Guide

Unlocking the Secret to Maximum Sparkle

When choosing a diamond, the diamond cut is the most critical factor influencing its brilliance, fire, and scintillation. While many focus on carat weight or clarity, the cut determines how light interacts with the diamond, making it the key to its beauty. This guide will help you understand why cut matters and how to choose the perfect diamond cut for your needs.

At MiaDonna, our lab-grown diamonds are precision-cut to ensure maximum brilliance and ethical beauty, making them harder and brighter than 99% of natural diamonds.

What is a Diamond Cut?

The diamond cut refers to how a diamond is shaped and faceted from its rough form. It’s not to be confused with diamond shape (e.g., round, oval, or pear), which describes the outline of the diamond. The cut determines how light enters, reflects, and exits the diamond, creating its signature sparkle. A well-cut diamond maximizes light return, while a poorly cut diamond will appear dull or lifeless.

Why is Diamond Cut Important?

The cut of a diamond is responsible for its ability to sparkle. A diamond with an excellent cut will deliver the stunning, light-catching brilliance you expect, while a poorly cut diamond will lack that signature dazzle. Since cut directly impacts a diamond’s appearance, it’s essential to prioritize this factor when selecting your perfect stone.

How is Diamond Cut Graded?

Diamond cut grades evaluate how well a diamond’s proportions, symmetry, and polish work together to reflect light. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the leading authority in diamond grading, uses the following scale for round brilliant diamonds:

• Excellent: Maximum brilliance, fire, and scintillation.
• Very Good: High brilliance and fire, with slightly less sparkle than Excellent.
• Good: Decent brilliance but less sparkle due to minor imperfections.
• Fair: Limited brilliance and noticeable dullness.
• Poor: Significant light leakage, resulting in a dull, lifeless appearance.

At MiaDonna, we exclusively offer diamonds graded Good or higher, ensuring every stone meets our high standards for brilliance and ethical quality.

Factors that Affect Diamond Cut Quality

Several factors contribute to a diamond’s cut grade. Here’s what you need to know:

Proportions

The proportions of a diamond refer to the relationships between its various dimensions, such as depth, width, and angles. These proportions are critical in determining how light reflects and refracts within the diamond, impacting its brilliance, fire, and scintillation.

1. Table Size:

   The table is the flat top surface of the diamond. A properly sized table allows light to enter the diamond and reflect optimally. Ideal Range: Typically, the table should be 50-62% of the diamond’s total width for maximum brilliance.
   
   

2. Depth Percentage: 

   This measures the height of the diamond from the culet (bottom tip) to the table, expressed as a percentage of the diamond’s diameter. Ideal Range: A depth of 58-62% is considered optimal for round diamonds.
   
   

3. Crown Angle:

   The angle at which the crown (upper portion) of the diamond is cut. A balanced crown angle ensures that light is refracted beautifully into the diamond. Ideal Range: 31-36 degrees for round brilliant cuts.
   
   

4. Pavilion Angle:

   The angle of the pavilion (lower portion) is crucial for reflecting light back through the crown. Ideal Range: 40-41 degrees for round diamonds.
   
   

5. Girdle Thickness:

   The girdle is the thin outer edge that separates the crown from the pavilion. A girdle that is too thick can make the diamond appear smaller, while one that is too thin can make it prone to chipping. Recommendation: A "Thin to Slightly Thick" girdle is ideal.
   

Symmetry

Polish

• Excellent/Ideal: No visible polish marks under 10x magnification.
• Very Good: Minor polish marks that are difficult to detect.
• Good/Fair: Noticeable polish marks that can affect brilliance.
• Poor: Obvious polish marks that significantly reduce light reflection.

Cutting Style

The cutting style refers to the method used to shape and facet the diamond. Each style affects how light interacts with the diamond, influencing its overall brilliance and aesthetic. Cutting style can be categorized as:

1. Brilliant Cut: 

   Features triangular and kite-shaped facets designed to maximize brilliance. Common in round, princess, and cushion cuts.
   
   

2. Step Cut:

   Features long, rectangular facets that create a hall-of-mirrors effect. Common in emerald and Asscher cuts. Step cuts emphasize clarity over brilliance.
   
   

3. Mixed Cut:

   Combines elements of brilliant and step cuts for a balance of sparkle and elegance. Common in radiant cuts.

Light Performance

The cutting style refers to the method used to shape and facet the diamond. Each style affects how light interacts with the diamond, influencing its overall brilliance and aesthetic. Cutting style can be categorized as:

• Brilliance: White light reflected from the diamond.
• Fire: Rainbow-colored caused by dispersion.
• Scintillation: Sparkling flashes of light when the diamond moves.

Certification Standards

The cut quality is also influenced by the grading standards of certification labs like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the International Gemological Institute (IGI). These organizations evaluate a diamond’s proportions, symmetry, and polish to assign a cut grade.

• GIA Cut Grades: Excellent, Very Good, Fair, Poor.
• IGI Cut Grades: Ideal, Excellent, Very Good, Fair, Poor.

GIA-graded diamonds are often more expensive than IGI-graded diamonds because the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is widely regarded as the gold standard in diamond grading. Their stringent grading criteria and global reputation for consistency and accuracy contribute to higher prices. However, the International Gemological Institute (IGI) is also highly respected and trusted, especially for lab-grown diamonds. IGI provides accurate and reliable grading reports, making it an excellent choice for customers seeking high-quality diamonds at a more accessible price point.

At MiaDonna, we offer both GIA and IGI-graded diamonds, cut to precise standards to ensure they are brighter and harder than 99% of natural diamonds, offering you a stunning and ethical choice.

Popular Diamond Cuts and Their Characteristics

Each diamond cut offers a unique combination of brilliance, fire, and style, catering to different tastes and preferences. Below is a detailed breakdown of the most popular diamond cuts and what makes them special:

1. Round Cut

   • The most classic and popular diamond shape, known for its timeless appeal and exceptional brilliance.
   • Boasts 58 facets designed to maximize light reflection, creating unmatched sparkle.
   • Ideal for those seeking a traditional and versatile style.
   • Works well in most ring settings, especially solitaires and halos.
   • Why Choose It: If brilliance and fire are your priorities, the round cut is the ultimate choice.
     
     

2. Princess Cut

   • A modern square or rectangular cut with sharp corners, offering a bold and contemporary look.
   • Combines brilliance with a clean, geometric shape.
   • Second most popular cut after round diamonds.
   • Often used in engagement rings for a modern aesthetic.
   • Why Choose It: Perfect for those who love a sleek, edgy style with plenty of sparkle.
     
     

3. Cushion Cut

   • Known for its vintage charm, this cut features a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, resembling a pillow.
   • Offers a softer, romantic look with a brilliant or modified brilliant facet pattern.
   • Popular for its ability to blend vintage appeal with modern brilliance.
   • Works beautifully in halo or vintage-inspired settings.
   • Why Choose It: Ideal for those who appreciate a classic yet romantic design.
     

4. Emerald Cut

   • A rectangular shape with step-cut facets that emphasize clarity over brilliance.
   • Features large, open facets that create a hall-of-mirrors effect.
   • Highlights the diamond’s clarity and color rather than sparkle.
   • Exudes elegance and sophistication, often chosen for its understated beauty.
   • Why Choose It: Best for those who value clarity and a refined, minimalist look.

5. Oval Cut

   • An elongated version of the round cut, offering brilliance with a unique, slender appearance.
   • Creates the illusion of a larger diamond due to its elongated shape.
   • Offers excellent brilliance similar to round cuts.
   • Complements a variety of ring settings, including solitaires and halos.
   • Why Choose It: Great for those seeking a non-traditional shape with a larger appearance.
     
     

6. Marquise Cut

   • An elongated shape with pointed ends, resembling a boat or football.
   • Maximizes carat weight, making the diamond appear larger than it is.
   • Creates an elegant, elongated look that flatters the fingers.
   • Works well in solitaire or vintage-inspired settings.
   • Why Choose It: Perfect for those who want a dramatic and unique look.
     
     

7. Pear Cut

   • A teardrop-shaped diamond that combines the round and marquise cuts.
   • Offers excellent brilliance with a distinctive, elegant silhouette.
   • Often used in pendants, earrings, and engagement rings for a graceful touch.
   • Requires a protective setting to safeguard the pointed tip.
   • Why Choose It: Ideal for those who want a unique, feminine design with plenty of sparkle.
     
     

8. Heart Cut

   • A romantic shape resembling a heart, symbolizing love and sentimentality.
   • Offers a unique charm with excellent brilliance.
   • Requires precise cutting to achieve a symmetrical heart shape.
   • Often chosen for custom or symbolic jewelry pieces.
   • Why Choose It: Perfect for those seeking a meaningful and personalized design.
     
     

9. Radiant Cut

• • A square or rectangular shape with cropped corners, blending the brilliance of round cuts with the elegance of step cuts.
  • Features a unique facet pattern that combines step and brilliant cuts.
  • Offers exceptional sparkle with a modern, edgy look.
  • Works well in both solitaire and halo settings.
  • Why Choose It: Great for those who want a bold, brilliant diamond with a contemporary vibe.

Choosing the Right Diamond Cut

Each diamond cut has its own charm and appeal. When selecting a cut, consider your personal style, the type of setting you prefer, and how the diamond will complement your lifestyle. 

Diamond Cut Characteristics: Brilliance, Fire, and Scintillation 

The beauty of a diamond lies in its ability to interact with light. Here’s how cut impacts these visual effects:

• Brilliance: The white light reflected off the diamond’s surface and interior.
• Fire: The rainbow of colors created when light disperses through the diamond.
• Scintillation: The sparkling effect you see when the diamond moves or light sources change.
  
  

How to Choose the Best Diamond Cut for You

Selecting the perfect diamond cut depends on your style, budget, and lifestyle. Here’s what to consider:

• Personal Style: Do you prefer classic shapes like round or modern cuts like princess?
• Budget: Higher cut grades often cost more, but they’re worth the investment for superior sparkle.
• Ring Setting: Certain cuts, like round, work well in solitaires, while others, like emerald, shine in vintage-inspired settings.
• Lifestyle: For active lifestyles, choose cuts with secure settings, like bezel or prong styles, to protect your diamond.
  
  

How Does Diamond Cut Impact Price?

The cut grade significantly affects a diamond’s price. Higher cut grades, like Excellent or Ideal, often come at a premium because of their superior light performance. However, choosing a slightly lower grade, like Very Good, can help balance your budget without sacrificing too much brilliance.

At MiaDonna, we offer a range of ethically sourced, lab-grown diamonds to suit every budget, ensuring you can find a stunning stone without compromise.

Why Choose MiaDonna for Your Diamond?

At MiaDonna, we specialize in lab-grown diamonds that are ethically sourced, eco-friendly, and grown to perfection. Our diamonds are created to shine brighter and last longer, all while supporting communities impacted by traditional diamond mining. With every purchase, 10% of profits go toward initiatives that help to free children and mothers from a lifetime of mining.  

The cut of a diamond is the most important factor in maximizing its brilliance and beauty. By understanding how cut grades work and what factors contribute to a diamond’s sparkle, you can make an informed decision that aligns with your style, budget, and values. Explore MiaDonna’s collection of ethically sourced lab-grown diamonds to find the perfect cut that symbolizes your love and commitment.

Ready to find your perfect diamond? Explore MiaDonna’s Lab-Grown Diamond Collection or book a virtual or in-person appointment with one of our experts to get started.