Why Aren't Fancy Shape Diamonds Given Cut Grades?

Welcome to our blog, where we uncover the fascinating world of diamonds. Today, we’re diving into the intriguing question: Why don’t fancy shape diamonds receive cut grades? Join us as we unravel the enigma behind these sparkling gems and shed light on the factors that contribute to their lack of grading. Let’s embark on this journey of discovery together.

Understanding the Absence of Cut Grades for Fancy Shape Diamonds

The Role of Cut Grade in Diamond Evaluation

Cut grade plays a crucial role in assessing the quality of a diamond. It directly impacts a diamond’s brilliance, fire, and overall visual appeal. However, while round brilliant diamonds are assigned precise cut grades, the same grading system does not apply to fancy shape diamonds. Let’s explore the reasons behind this disparity.

1. Challenges posed by diverse shapes and facet arrangements

Fancy shape diamonds, such as princess, emerald, and pear cuts, exhibit a wide range of shapes and facet arrangements. Unlike the standardized guidelines available for round brilliant diamonds, each fancy shape has its own unique characteristics. This inherent diversity presents a challenge in establishing a universal cut grading system. Take Round for example, a round shape is a perfect repeatable shape without much variation. An oval, square, pear, etc has too many varying lengths.  Each change in length changes the formula for.  The image below illustrates each diamond shape and the massive difference in their facet structure. 

Why Aren't Fancy Shape Diamonds Given Cut Grades?

2. Subjectivity in assessing beauty preferences

Beauty is subjective, and individual preferences for fancy shape diamonds can vary significantly. What one person finds appealing may not resonate with another. This subjectivity makes it difficult to develop an objective-cut grading system that satisfies the diverse tastes and preferences of consumers.

 

For example, here are two very different oval diamond shapes :

 Each diamond has a different length-to-width ratio which completely changes the ideal table and depth percentage for that length.  Making it nearly impossible for the many variations in shape to have a standardized formula.  

Alternative Evaluation Methods for Fancy Shape Diamonds

While formal cut grades may not be assigned to fancy shape diamonds, alternative evaluation methods can help assess their quality and beauty. Consider the following approaches:

1.Proportions and symmetry assessment

Evaluating the proportions and symmetry of a fancy shape diamond can provide insights into its craftsmanship and overall visual appeal. Symmetry refers to the alignment and placement of the diamond’s facets, while proportions involve the relationship between length, width, and depth. 

2. Visual inspection under different lighting conditions

Examining the diamond under different lighting conditions and angles can help assess its brilliance, fire, and scintillation. A skilled gemologist or diamond expert can provide an informed assessment based on their expertise.

3. Consideration of personal preferences

Due to the subjective nature of beauty, individuals can choose a fancy shape diamond based on their personal preferences. Factors such as the shape’s appeal, uniqueness, and individual taste can guide the decision-making process.

Conclusion + SOLUTIONS

While fancy shape diamonds do not receive formal cut grades, their allure and beauty remain captivating. The absence of cut grading is primarily due to the challenges posed by diverse shapes, facet arrangements, and the subjectivity of individual preferences. However, alternative evaluation methods such as assessing proportions, symmetry, and personal preferences can guide consumers in selecting the perfect fancy shape diamond that reflects their unique style.

COMPANIES THAT HAVE A SPECIAL LINE OF FANCY DIAMONDS WITH IDEAL CUTS BACKED BY BRILLIANCE TEst 

How Can I Help?

I have formulated a few charts that show specific diamond shapes and their ideal settings PLUS, I have links to samples of the visual confirmation of what a great diamond looks like.  With the percentages given plus the visual confirmation., I hope this gives you some comfort and confidence when you buy your diamond. 

IDEAL CUT SETTING FOR DIFFERENT DIAMOND SHAPES

Click on your shape to see cut samples.

Depth & Table Percentage

One of the two key factors in choosing a diamond. The depth and table percentage is important in relation to the cut and width or the diamond.  Each cut has different rules that apply. Use the table below to find your diamond shapes ideal depth & Table percentage. 

Diamond Shape Ideal Depth & Table Percentage Click link To View Sample
Round Table: 53-59% Depth: 59-63% Click Here to view ideal Round
Princess Table: 67-73% Depth: 64-72% Click Here to view Ideal Princess
Oval Table: 53-63% Depth: 58-63% Click Here to view Ideal Oval
Pear Table: 53-63% Depth: 55-62% Click Here to view Ideal Pear
Cushion Table: 61-67% Depth: 61-67% Click Here to view Ideal Cushion
Emerald Table: 61-69% Depth: 61-67% Click to view Ideal Emerald
Radiant Table: 61-69% Depth: 61-70% Click to view Ideal Radiant
Asscher Table: 61-69% Depth: 61-67% Click Here to view ideal Asscher
Marquise Table: 61-69% Depth: 61-67% Click Here to view ideal Marquise

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Feel free to reach out and send me a message. Do you want buying advice on How to buy a diamond or have you found a stone you wish for me to evaluate. Feel free to drop me a line and say hello. Advice is free.

 


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