GOOD CUT VS GREAT CUT

Is there really a difference between a diamond that’s cut “good” and a diamond that’s cut “great“?

To find out, let’s compare diamonds.

I’ll show you a bunch of diamonds with a “good” cut grade, all of the exact same clarity and color (SI1, E).

Take a peek:

(Good cut diamonds here at James Allen.)

You can see from these pictures that the symmetry and light balance of these stones are all over the board. Some look good, some look dark, some are unappealing and lack any true beauty or sparkle.

There is no consistency.

Now let’s compare them with “excellent” cut grades (the best GIA gives).

Do you see a difference now?

(Excellent cut diamonds here at James Allen.)

Notice how much brighter and similar they appear?

Not only do excellent cuts appear brighter, whiter, but the patterns are more evenly distributed. Many even show the distinct arrows pattern, that perfectly cut diamonds have.

This is not something that’s noticeable on a diamond report. It’s something you have to see for yourself.

It’s a visual test.

Just by looking at the diamonds you can quickly see why excellent graded diamonds appear better. This is often the case.

But, some “good” cut diamonds look great as well. Like in the diamonds above, some face up like much higher priced stones.

Diamonds are like people. Everyone is different and gives off unique characteristics and projects light differently. Some disperse more brilliance, fire, and sparkle.

It’s a fact.

The point is, there is no exact line drawn in the sand between good and great. Some are close enough to be identical to the best cuts in the world (which is great for your pocketbook).

Plus, other things come into play, like symmetry, polish, and fluorescence. They can all affect how visually stunning a diamond appears.

So what you must do, is inspect them. Compare them. Don’t rule anything out until you see them with your own eyes.

Because diamonds are all about looks, brilliance, and price.

Good verses great, could you tell the difference? Maybe, if you looked at enough of them. But some diamonds will absolutely fool you.

Let me know what you think in the comments below.

And do check out these great cut diamonds here.

Cheers! :)