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| CUT OF DIAMOND |
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Colour / Clarity / Carat / Cut
A diamond begins its existence as an irregularly shaped piece of crystal, sometimes called "rough". The diamond cutter examines the rough and determines the most appropriate shape for it. This is based on several factors…chiefly the general shape of the rough crystal, its size, nature of any imperfections, and consideration as to how much weight might be lost in the cutting process. The skill of the cutter is vital. A master cutter may practice his craft for twenty or thirty years before being allowed to handle the finest rough.
Cut refers to the precision with which the cutter crafts the diamond. When a diamond is properly cut by a skilled craftsman, light is reflected from facet to facet and then back through the top of the stone to your eye as brillance. A stone cut carelessly, or too deep or too shallow, loses its fire and brillance. The result is a stone with little sparkle or life…and much less value.
Cut is the single most important factor in determining the diamond's beauty and value. A poorly cut diamond may sell up for up to 50% less than a very well-cut diamond of otherwise identical colour and clarity. Careful cutting is critical to a beautiful and valuable diamond. Unfortunately, it is not easily quantifiable. 
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