Diamond cutting is a precise and intricate process that transforms a rough diamond into a polished gemstone, enhancing its brilliance, fire, and overall beauty.
Here's an overview of the steps involved in diamond cutting:
1. Planning and Cleaving: The process begins with careful planning to determine the best way to cut the rough diamond to maximize its value and beauty while minimizing waste. The rough diamond is examined for its shape, size, and internal characteristics. Diamond cutters use specialized tools to mark the diamond for cutting and to cleave or split it along its natural planes or cleavage lines.
2. Sawing: If the rough diamond cannot be cleaved, it may be sawn using a laser or a diamond-edged saw blade. This process creates two pieces, known as "cleavages," which will be further cut and polished into individual diamonds.
3. Bruting: Bruting, also known as girdling, involves shaping the rough diamond into a basic round shape. This is typically done by grinding the edges against each other to create a circular outline. Bruting also establishes the diamond's girdle, the outer edge where the crown (top) and pavilion (bottom) meet.
4. Faceting: Faceting is the most intricate and time-consuming stage of diamond cutting. It involves cutting and polishing a series of flat, polished surfaces, known as facets, onto the diamond's surface. The facets are arranged in specific geometric patterns to maximize the diamond's brilliance and sparkle. The main
facets include the table (top), crown (above the girdle), and pavilion (below the girdle), along with additional facets such as the star, kite, and upper and lower girdle facets.
5. Polishing: Once the facets are cut, the diamond undergoes polishing to enhance its luster and smooth out any imperfections on the surface. Polishing is typically done using a rotating wheel coated with diamond dust or other abrasives, which gradually buffs the diamond to a high polish.
6. Final Inspection: After polishing, the diamond undergoes a thorough inspection to ensure that it meets strict quality standards. Diamond cutters examine the diamond under magnification to check for symmetry, proportions, and any remaining flaws or inclusions. Only diamonds that meet the desired criteria for cut, clarity, color, and carat weight are deemed suitable for sale as polished gemstones.
Throughout the diamond-cutting process, precision, skill, and attention to detail are paramount to achieving the desired result—a dazzling, beautifully cut diamond that captivates the eye and stands as a testament to the craftsmanship of its creator. That same level of skill, precision, and attention to detail is also what sets the team at Accent Jewelers in Memphis apart.
We have the best trained, most knowledgeable staff, in the entire Memphis and MidSouth area. Whether you are interested in selling your diamonds or other valuables, are looking for remarkable deals on estate jewelry, or just want to learn more about diamonds, stop by and see us. We’re located on the first floor of the I-Bank Tower at 5050 Poplar in Memphis. And remember, at Accent, We Pay More!
