One of the most defining characteristics of a diamond is its cut. While high grades of color, clarity, and carat weight also contribute to a diamond’s appeal, it’s the cut that determines the symmetry of the stone’s facets, its overall proportions, and its ability to reflect light. An expertly cut diamond will achieve high levels of brilliance, sparkle, and durability. Even if a diamond is graded well in other areas, a poor cut can result in a dull, muted effect. Below are various cuts of diamonds and some information pertaining to each cut.
American Round Brilliant Diamonds
History & Background
This cut has evidence existing since the middle of the 17th century, right around the time when diamond cutters started utilizing more complex ways of cutting diamonds. Round brilliants weren’t always known as round brilliants. Originally they were called Mazarins, after their creator Cardinal Mazarin, who made the first cross cut diamond in the 1650′s. Gradual developments were made to the Mazarins, and then that gave birth to the Portuguese Peruzzi, “old mine,” or “old European cut” (what we at Gesner specialize in) in the 1700′s. It wasn’t until 1919 when the first early round brilliants was created. It was named the Tolkowsky cut, which is named after it’s cutter, Marcel Tolkowsky. Subtle changes have been made since 1919 to yield what the buying public knows today as the “American round brilliant.”
Princess Cut Diamonds
The princess cut is basically a round brilliant, but in a square shape. It yields either 57 or 76 facets. It’s popular for both solitaire engagement rings and earrings because it creates more light dispersion than any other square shaped diamond. This is due to the pyramidal shape of the cut. It is a patented cut, so on a GIA certificate it may appear as a Square Modified Brilliant if the ratio is larger than 1.05. This cut hides inclusions very well because of the light dispersion from the extra facets it contains. This makes the most brilliant of all square stones. It’s also very popular for eternity bands because they stones cant sit side by side without any gaps in between the stones. It’s also ideal for women with very long fingers because of its sharply squared corners! The Princess cut is also referred as the square- or rectangular modified brilliant.
History & Background
The name “Princess Cut” was originally used in connection with another diamond cut known as the “Profile” cut, which was created in 1961. In 1979 the cut of the diamond took the name as we know it today, the Princess Cut. Other predecessors of the Princess Cut were the Barion and Quadrillion.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
The Emerald Cut is one of the first cuts to be used in jewelry. It resembles stair steps when looking down from directly on top of the stone. This cut is referred as a step cut because it shape is comprised of “steps.” Emerald Cuts typically have 57 facets. It can vary depending on how many rows of facets that are on the crown or pavilion, which in turn would alter the amount of facets the stone possesses. While it typically has less fire and brilliance than brilliant cuts, the broad flat plane of this shape highlights the clarity of a diamond and its natural crystalline rectangular growth. Additionally, the flat planes of the edges allow for a variety of side gemstones such as the long thin rectangular diamonds that often flank this cut, known as baguettes. The vast majority of emerald cuts have length to width ratios between 1.30 and 1.50 with 1.40 considered as the “ideal” or most popular. Those who prefer a more squared shape will opt for lower ratios while those after a more rectangular cut will choose higher ratios. Emerald ratios outside this range are atypical and generally less desirable. Because of its large open facets, higher clarity grades (VS2 and above for GIA and VS1 and above for EGL, to ensure it is completely eye clean) are usually recommended for emerald cut diamonds. As with the Asscher and Cushion cuts, more rectangular shapes (larger ratios) help to elongate shorter fingers.
History & Background
The exact origins of the first emerald cut remain somewhat ambiguous, although its stylistic specifications can be traced back to the single table cuts of some 500 years ago and the multifaceted table cuts of the Art Deco period in the early 20th century. The term “emerald cut” only began being used during the Art Deco period, despite the fact that diamond cutters were already cutting the same shape under different names. Initially, the cut itself was developed specifically for emerald gems in order to reduce the amount of pressure exerted during cutting and to protect the gemstone from chipping. However, diamond cutters soon realized the importance of this cut and applied it to diamonds as well.
Asscher Cut Diamonds
History and Background
Named after its creator Joseph Asscher, owner of the Amsterdam-based diamond company of the same name, the Asscher cut was developed in the early 20th century at the birth of the stylish and popular Art Deco movement. Joseph Asscher rose to fame several years later when he was commissioned by King Edward VII to cut the famous 3,106-carat Cullinan diamond for the English crown jewels. In 1980 Her Majesty Queen Juliana of Holland granted the Asscher Diamond Company a royal title in recognition of the role the Asscher family and company had held in the diamond industry. This cut’s popularity peaked in the late 1920s but remained a somewhat rare commodity for the remainder of the century, available only in antique shops and specialized Art Deco jewelers. At the onset of the new millennium, following considerable research and development, the Asscher cut was redesigned with new specifications and additional facets for a more brilliant shine, and has since regained its popularity.
Pear Shape Diamonds
The pear shape is unique and hybrid diamond cut combining the brilliance and design style of both the Round Brilliant and the Marquise that results in a shape with a single point and rounded end. The typical ratio is between 1.50 and 1.70 and the stone is usually comprised of 58 facets, although the number of pavilion facets may range from 4 to 8. Additionally, pear shapes are sometimes cut with a “French tip,” which replaces the large bezel facet at the point with star and upper girdle facets. French tips are also used in the Heart and Marquise shapes. Pear-shaped diamonds may vary in appearance with some having what is referred to as “high shoulders”, making the stone appear more angular. The pear shape can suffer from a so-called “bow-tie effect” when light passing through the diamond casts a shadow across the central facets of the stone. This shadow can be reduced by altering the depth of the pavilion, and adjusting the angles of the table and facets to better diffuse light in the central area. This effect also occurs in the Heart, Marquise and Oval shapes. The optimal pear shape is one with a polished girdle and a rounded base, or “even shoulders”. However, much like the oval cut, a more attenuated pear shape may elongate the fingers, so it is important to reconcile these two qualities. Additionally, colour is often more visible towards the tip of the pear shape, so to ensure an even tone throughout the stone it is advisable to opt for colours H and above. Also referred to as: PENDELOQUE or TEARDROP CUT.
History & Background
The first pear-shaped diamond was created in the 1400s by Flemish cutter Lodewyk van Berquem of Bruges, inventor of the diamond-polishing wheel, or scaif. This invention enabled him to polish all the facets of the diamond to optimize light reflection within it. It was from this watershed moment onwards that diamonds began to be used in jewelry. Van Berquem also pioneered the now commonplace symmetrical arrangement of facets on a stone, this in turn led him to fashion the pear-shaped “Pendeloque” or “Briolette” cut.
Radiant Cut Diamonds
The Radiant is a unique and hybrid cut comprised of 70 facets and distinctive trimmed edges. Square-shaped Radiant cuts typically have ratios between 1.00 and 1.05 while rectangular Radiant cuts can have ratios from over 1.05 anywhere up to 1.50. Its versatile design combines the brilliance and depth of the round, Emerald and Princess cuts making it a popular choice for all types of jewellery. As it is a patented cut, it may be referred to as a Cut-Cornered Square on a laboratory certificate (eg. GIA or AGL), or a Rectangular Brilliant if it has a ratio greater than 1.05. Because of its extra facets, the Radiant cut can disperse more light through the stone making it one of the most brilliant of all square- and rectangular-shaped stones. It also hides inclusions more efficiently than other shapes. As it is a hybrid cut combining the features of both brilliant and step-cuts, the Radiant is the ideal compromise and the perfect solution for someone who wants to “have it all.” Also referred to as: SQUARE or RECTANGULAR MODIFIED BRILLIANT
History & Background
The first Radiant cut was designed by Henry Grossbard of the Radiant Cut Diamond Company (RCDC) in 1977. Prior to this invention, all diamonds with square or step-cut edges appeared less brilliant. Grossbard invented a hybrid cutting style that revolutionised the industry’s perceptions towards square or rectangular stones as he managed to create a step-cut diamond that possessed equal brilliance to triangular-faceted diamonds such as the oval and pear. The Radiant is also the first cut to have a brilliant-facet pattern applied to both the crown & pavilion. RCDC launched the Original Radiant Cut diamond brand in 2002.
Oval Cut Diamonds
Although oval shaped diamonds were first introduced over 200 years ago, the modern oval cut was invented in the early 1960s by leading Russian cutter Lazare Kaplan. The cut eventually earned him a place in the Jewelers International Hall of Fame, however, Kaplan also left his mark on the diamond industry with his unique ability to split a rough diamond into smaller stones with a single blow. This process is known as cleaving. When a rough material is poorly shaped or contains defective flaws that prevent it from being turned into a single stone, it must be split along the grain. Kaplan became famous for his expertise in taking stones that were otherwise deemed unworthy and transforming them into beautifully cut diamonds.
Cushion Cut Diamonds
History & Background
The cushion, pillow or candlelight cut was developed in the 19th century and has undergone several transformations and developments since. The cushion cut has especially benefited from the invention of cleaving as this process has helped to maximize the shape’s light dispersion making it more dynamic and brilliant.
Heart Cut Diamonds
The heart shape is usually comprised of between 56 and 58 facets, although the number of main pavilion facets may vary between 6, 7, and 8. Additionally, heart shapes are sometimes cut with “French tips,” which replace the large bezel facet at the point with star and upper girdle facets. French tips are also used in Marquise and Pear shapes. Heart shapes may differ slightly in appearance depending on their make or structure. The traditional heart shape should have a ratio between 0.90 and 1.10 and be absolutely symmetrical with the lobes (top arches) of even height and breadth, although these specifications may be altered according to personal preferences. In determining the length to width ratio for heart shapes, the width is measured at the widest point of the shape from the edge of one lobe to the other. In addition, the heart shape can suffer from a so-called “bow-tie effect” when light passing through the diamond casts a shadow across the central facets of the stone. The most important elements to consider with the heart shape are the quality of the curved cut and finish as these determine the sparkle of the gem. The shadow caused by the bow-tie effect can be reduced by altering the depth of the pavilion, and adjusting the angles of the table and facets to better diffuse light in the central area. This effect also occurs in the Pear, Marquise and Oval shapes. Ever the romantic choice… This is a rare and symbolic cut.
History & Background
The exact origins of the heart brilliant are unknown although being a modified brilliant cut it may have appeared as early as the 16th century. However, gems which would today be classified as ‘triangular with rounded corners’ or ‘drops’ were at one time described as being heart-shaped. Indeed, this is evident from the many descriptions in French inventories dating from the middle of the seventeenth century. The first recorded heart shape diamond appears in a portrait entitled “The Gonzaga Princess,” painted circa 1605 by Frans Pourbus the younger. The large piece of jewellery on the princess’s left sleeve contains a variety of different cuts, some of which are thought to be versions of the heart-like ‘drops’ popular in France at the time. The heart shape is also mentioned in a book written in 1655 by Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, the French merchant-traveller who found his fortune in the precious stone trade and famously brought the Hope Diamond to France. In the text, he recalls seeing the “Heart Diamond,” a 36-carat heart-shaped brilliant in an ornament in the treasure of Aurangzeb, in India.
Marquise Cut Diamonds
The Marquise Brilliant cut may also be referred to as the “Navette” shape, meaning “little boat,” as the shape of the diamond is said to mirror the hull of a small boat. It is generally comprised of 58 facets, with 33 on the crown and 25 on the pavilion, although the number of pavilion facets may range between 4 and 8. Additionally, Marquise shapes are sometimes cut with a “French tip,” which replaces the large bezel facet at the point with star and upper girdle facets. French tips are also used in the Heart and Pear shapes. Even though the optimal ratio of the Marquise is 2:1, the shape is more traditionally cut to ratios ranging between 1.85 and 2.10 according to personal preference. The Marquise can suffer from a so-called “bow-tie effect” when light passing through the diamond casts a shadow across the central facets of the stone. This shadow can be reduced by altering the depth of the pavilion, and adjusting the angles of the table and facets to better diffuse light in the central area. This effect also occurs in the Pear, Oval and Heart shapes. The Marquise cut can maximize carat weight, making it appear larger than other stones of the same size and is often set with round or pear-shaped side-stones. As with other elongated shapes, the Marquise can make fingers appear longer and more slender. It is important that the Marquise is not too shallow so as to avoid light passing through the back of the diamond and diminishing its brilliance and fire. Also referred to as: NAVETTE SHAPE.
The Marquise cut first appeared in Paris circa 1745 and its fascinating history can be traced back to the height of the French monarchy. King Louis XV commissioned his court jeweller to create a diamond that resembled the smile of his beautiful mistress, the Marchioness Madame de Pompadour. A well-educated and intellectual woman who exerted strong political opinions on the French court, Madame de Pompadour was the official maitresse en titre of King Louis XV between 1745 and 1750. The shape was then developed and modified throughout the 20th century, evolving into the Marquise Brilliant cut as it is known today, seeing an especial rise in popularity between the 1960s and 1980s. The Marquise cut first appeared in Paris in approximately 1745. The fascinating history of the Marquise cut can be traced back to the height of the French monarchy reign.
Trillion Cut Diamonds
The Trillion cut is a triangular shape comprised of three equal sides and 31 or 50 facets depending on whether the diamonds are used as solitaires or accent stones. For solitaires, a curved or convex cut is employed, whereas accent stones are cut uncurved or concave. Additional variations include round-cornered triangular, modified shield cuts and triangular step cuts. The trillion’s unique style has great fire and displays sharp brilliance if the stone is cut to the correct depth. Trillion cut diamonds are most often used as side stones to compliment larger solitaire stones in engagement rings, although they also make for a perfect solitaire stone themselves considering their unparalleled brilliance and fire. Trillion cut diamonds make for striking accent or side stones, or offer a striking option for someone after a brilliant and unique solitaire.
Depth is an important factor to consider in Trillion cuts (especially where solitaires are concerned), as this can greatly affect the fire and brilliance of the stone. A well cut Trillion with great fire and brilliance can also hide inclusions fairly well. Also referred to as: TRILLIANT, TRILLIAN or TRIELLE.
The trillion cut was first developed in Amsterdam, although the design varied dramatically depending on the rough form of the stone. In 1962, the Henry Meyer Diamond Company of New York designed and trademarked the modern Trillion cut and over time the trillion became the generic name for all triangular brilliant cut diamonds.
**This information was taken from www.77diamonds.com**
{ 0 comments }
The standard number of facets of a Round Brilliant cut gemstone is 57. Although no single inventor has officially been credited with the invention of the Round Brilliant cut, many sources do credit a Venetian cutter named Vincenzio Perruzzi and date the Brilliant’s introduction to the 18th century. The Russian mathematical genius Marcel Tolkowsky, a member of a large and powerful Diamond family, subsequently calculated the cuts necessary to create the ideal Diamond shape. As part of his PhD thesis in mathematics, Tolkowsky considered variables such as the index of refraction and covalent bond angles to describe what has become known as the Round Brilliant cut. Tolkowsky’s recommended cut height for a Round Brilliant is 58% that of the diameter of the Diamond, which breaks down to about 43% for the pavilion, and 14% for the height of the crown. This 58% is probably the most crucial dimension of the gem. This cut is optically the most efficient. The Round Brilliant boasts one of the best recoveries for well shaped Diamond and gemstone rough; this translates into good value for consumers. The Round Brilliant cut is designed to provide maximum optics for brilliance and scintillation, making the gem sparkle and dance in the light. This cut was specially developed for Diamonds but is today common for all gem types.
For the Oval cut, the ratio of the length to the width should be approximately 2:1, although this does vary slightly depending on the optical properties of different gem types. A well cut Oval gemstone can be nearly as bright as a Round Brilliant cut. The Oval cut is a particularly beautiful shape and if well proportioned gives great scintillation and fire.
Baguette shaped gemstone is really only a special oblong shape. Most oblong cuts are “step” cut, which means that the facets on the pavilion have been cut in steps, parallel to the edges, in the manner of a pyramid with its top chopped off. The base and table are square with triangular facets. The Baguette cut best suits gem types that have rough in this shape such as Tourmaline. To the Native American Navajo, the rectangle symbolizes the female form, intelligence and divine contemplation.
the same length. Most oblong cuts are “step” cut, which means that the facets on the pavilion have been cut in steps, parallel to the edges, in the manner of a pyramid with its top chopped off. Some believe this cut is a symbol for equality, fair mindedness, justice, order, satisfaction and truth.
The tips and culets of Trilliants are pointed and thin. Some jewelers only bezel-set Trilliants, though prongs that protect the tips work well and show more of the gem. As you look down through the gem, the culet generally appears centered in the middle of the table showing the pavilion of the gem with an attention to symmetry. When you examine the gem in profile, the girdle and table facet are generally parallel. The pavilion’s main facet usually extends from the culet perpendicularly until it intersects the girdle. Because of their equilateral form, Trilliants return lots of light and color. They are considered nearly as brilliant as Round cuts, so they are a great choice for customers who like brilliance but want something other than round. Variations include rounded-corner triangles, modified shield cuts and triangular step cuts. There should be as few polishing marks as possible and the surface should appear glossy and reflective. Good polishing helps maximize brilliance and scintillation in Trilliants. Trilliants work well with light-colored gems – such as Diamonds, Aquamarines, Beryl’s and White Sapphires – where cutters try to maximize brilliance. Inversely, some cutters use Trilliants to effectively lighten and brighten the appearance of darker gems such as Tanzanite, Spessartite Garnet, Rhodolite Garnet and Amethyst. First developed in Amsterdam, the exact design can vary depending on a particular gem’s natural characteristics and the cutter’s personal preferences. It may be a traditional triangular shape with pointed corners or a more rounded triangular shape with 25 facets on the crown, 19 facets on the pavilion and a polished girdle.
A nice Pear cut is generally one that is well cut with a polished girdle. Although it varies depending on the optical properties of each gem type, Pear cuts should generally have a good depth such as 1.5:1 aspect ratio for a great look and a lively gem. For rings, this cut compliments a hand with small or average length fingers. It is particularly beautiful for pendants and earrings. Color also shows fairly dramatically in a Pear cut gemstone.
another “step” cut but with the four corners metered. The facets run in steps parallel to the gemstone circumference. This cut is differentiated from the Emerald cut by steps on the pavilion that are not equidistant. With this cut, color plays a very important role in the beauty of the gemstone. Color tends to show very dramatically in Octagon cut gemstones.
This is another “step cut” and it has rows of facets that resemble a staircase and usually are four-sided or elongated. It is known as a step cut because its concentric, broad, flat planes resemble stair steps. The Emerald cut is differentiated from the Octagon cut by its equidistant steps on the pavilion. The flat planes of the outside edges allow for a variety of shapes. Generally, the length-to-width ratio should be 1.5:1 to 1.75:1. With this cut, color plays a very important role in the beauty of the gemstone. Color tends to show very dramatically in Emerald cut gemstones. The Emerald cut was developed specifically for Emeralds to reduce the amount of pressure exerted during cutting and to protect the gemstone for chipping. Today, modern cutting techniques make this less important and it is used for a wide variety of gem types.
The general ratio of length to width should be 2:1. It is important that the Marquise cut gem not be too shallow or light will pass through the back of the gem diminishing its brilliance and color. However, as with all colored gems, this can vary from type to type. Marquise cut provides good brilliance and color. It is gorgeous when used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller gems.
The Antique Cushion cut is also known as “The Old Miner” or “Old European” cut, because it looks like a cross between a deep cut with large facets that was common in the late 19th and the early 20th centuries and a modern Oval cut. As it looks somewhat like a sofa cushion, the word “Cushion” is typically used in combination with “Antique” but not exclusively. This shape is also sometimes referred to as the “Pillow” cut (for obvious reasons) or the “Candlelight” cut in reference to cuts designed prior to electric lights, when gems sparkled in the light provided by candles. It has a marvelously romantic and classic look that stands out from other cuts. Along with the Princess cut, the Antique Cushion cut maximizes a gem’s luster. It is a primary cut first used on Ruby and Sapphire faceted in Ceylon (Sri Lanka).
It is a relatively new cut and often finds its way into solitaire engagement rings. Flattering to a hand with long fingers, it is often embellished with triangular stones at its sides. Because of its design, this cut requires more weight to be directed toward the gem’s depth in order to maximize brilliance. The advantages of the Princess cut are not restricted purely to Diamonds; it is also used on many other gemstones. Because of the extra faceting, and the effects this produces, Princess cuts are naturally more brilliant and sparkly. The Princess cut generally works best with lighter colored transparent gemstones. Along with the Antique Cushion cut, the Princess cut maximizes a gem’s luster. The Princess cut was designed for weight retention of octahedral Diamond crystals, helping to create more attractive Diamonds at more reasonable prices. The Barion cut was the forerunner of the Princess cut and was invented about 30 years ago by Basil Watermeyer of Johannesburg. The Barion cut has been the subject of patents that have expired within the past ten years and this has led to the greater availability of similarly cut gemstones. The style now known as the “Princess” cut has become a generic style of cutting. According to Harold Newman’s “Illustrated Dictionary of Jewelry”, the term Princess cut was previously applied to what is now known as the “Profile” cut developed by Arpad Nagy of London in 1961.
Most Heart Shape cuts are purchased as single gems. Solitaire rings are set with hearts throughout the range of sizes. After necklaces and rings, most Heart Shape cuts are sold as matched pairs for stud earrings. The primary market for Hearts is for luxury jewelry. There is heavy interest in the Heart Shape cut in the Far East. Hearts must be extremely well cut which makes them more expensive because excellent proportions result from a greater expenditure of rough. Understandably, noticeable increases in sales of Heart Shape cut gems occur around Valentine’s Day. As with all fancy cuts, buyers of Hearts should look first at the overall make. The first question to ask is “do I find the gem pleasing to the eye?” Generally, look for a balanced shape, avoiding extremes. Lobes should be rounded, and the cleft should be relatively sharp and distinct.
The Briolette cut is a drop-shaped gemstone with triangular or diamond shaped facets all the way around. There is no table, crown or pavilion. Considering the shape of the Briolette, it is the most difficult to cut. Because of the specific number of cuts to show the facets, the Briolette cut requires perfection from top to bottom. A cutter can only cut and polish 5-10 Briolette gemstones per day. The Briolette is a type of Rose cut, which dates back to the 14th century or earlier. No one knows for certain how old the Briolette cut actually is. There are rumors of Diamonds cut in India during the 12th century exhibiting this style of cutting. The Briolette is a relatively rare Diamond cut and far more common for colored gemstones. Briolette gems are found in antique and estate jewelry from the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. Briolette gems are increasing popular in fashion jewelry. Briolette cuts are set in earrings, necklaces and pendants. They are also included in tiaras in antique or estate jewelry. They are often used for earrings with a hanging wire or a simple precious metal cap, sometimes with a small Diamond accent. Briolettes have been featured in many industry publications and also in Vogue and Harper’s Bazaar. Most Diamond Briolettes are cut from white rough, but colored Diamond Briolettes, especially Fancy and Canary Yellows, are becoming more popular, followed by Cognacs and Champagnes. Again, it is very popular for colored gemstones. Every Briolette is unique, so look for beauty. Look for well-cut gemstones that have lots of brilliance. But as odd cut ones can also display brilliance, it is ultimately up to the individual.
Some of the new designs are variations on standard shape, aimed at creating the illusion of a bigger, more perfect gemstone. Others play with the natural rough and still others are fashioned into revolutionary new shape. The important fact to remember is that this ever-widening choice of shapes and designs is being created to suit a variety of individual styles and tastes. No one cut is more beautiful than another. The magic of nature and the artistry of the cutter combine to make each a unique work of art.
Cabochons, commonly known as Cabs, are the oldest and most common form of gem cutting. Gems cut “en Cabochon” are shaped and polished, rather than cut. In antiquity, this was generally the only cutting option available other than using the gem with the natural facets of their crystal structure. Some of the most beautiful ancient jewelry was made with Cabochons, including astounding Royal East Indian jewelry and the breastplate of Aaron. Cabochons are used for making jewelry, often carved as intaglio or cameo, and are also used in crystal healing. Today, the Cabochon cut is applied to gems of limited transparency (Turquoise, Jade, Agate etc.) or as a result of predominate inclusions (relatively opaque Sapphires, Rubies or Emeralds) or for gems where the cut’s curved surface accentuates special characteristics (iridescence, chatoyancy or the cat’s eye effect, asterism or the star effect).
One Millennium cut gem equates to approximately 18 times the amount of work of other cuts. Having 624 facets on the pavilion and 376 facets on the table, each facet has to be touched from one to four times during cutting and polishing. The amount of time involved, combined with the design particularities (rough selection, keeping a degree of sharpness between each facet, making enough space for each facet etc.) and the need for precision cut machinery, eliminates the possibility of the Millennium cut ever becoming mainstream.
While it is sometimes confused with the Millennium cut it can be easily distinguished by the lack of a standard number of facets and its application only to the pavilion. While Doug Hoffman patented Concave cut technology in the early 1990’s, his friend Richard Homer is credited as perfecting the technique of the Concave cut. While working towards a Geology Degree, Homer began cutting gems in 1974 to help pay his tuition. Since then, his designs have won 15 American Gem Trade Association (AGTA) Cutting Edge Awards. Not all gems benefit from the Concave cut. Optimizing color and light is always the first consideration in cutting gems, and although Diamonds and lighter toned gems increase up to 100% in brilliance when Concave cut, darker gems like Rubies can appear murkier and less attractive. Another disadvantage of the Concave cut is that it is significantly more expensive than traditionally cut gems. This is due to the higher weight loss and the additional labor required.
the name. Sometimes referred to as the “Thin Stone”, the Mirror cut was an early 16th century phenomenon that is making a comeback. It is a variety of the Round cut and appears in the names of some historic Diamonds including the “Mirror of Portugal” and the “Mirror of France”.
