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Shape or Proportions? In the world of diamonds, the word "cut" has two distinct meanings: Shape: Diamonds come in a variety of shapes including round, heart, square, triangular, etc. The shape is sometimes referred to as "cut" (as in an "emerald cut" or a "princess cut"). This use of the word "cut", however is NOT graded. A diamond is either round or rectangular, there is NO GRADE for "shape." Proportions: when diamonds are cut, there are standard specifications as to the proportions for the cut. This is to ensure the greatest brilliance and fire in a diamond. How closely the cutting of the diamond meets these specifications IS graded and represents the "Diamond Cut" that is critical to both the value and appearance of the diamond. "Cut" is the most difficult of the four Cs to understand, but it is also a critical element in judging the quality and beauty of a diamond. Diamonds cut closest to accepted standards reflect the greatest amount of light and are therefore both more beautiful and more valuable. If you have to scrimp on any aspect of the diamond, we recommend scrimping on color, clarity, or carat before scrimping on cut. Common grades are "Ideal," "Hearts and Arrows", "Premium", "Very Good", "Good", and "Fair & Poor". Which Cut Grade Should I Buy? If quality is your primary concern (and cost is no object), select a diamond graded Ideal, Hearts and Arrows, or Premium. If you're balancing quality with cost, select a stone in the Premium or Very Good grades. If cost is your primary concern, consider Very Good or Good grades. We recommend AGAINST buying stones in the Fair & Poor grade. For additional details on diamond cut, visit the Diamond Buying Guide web site. Additional Resources Where to Buy Editor's Pick! Mondera: AGS and GIA certified diamonds DiamondSafe.com: EGL certified diamonds Tutorials, Guides Diamond Buying Guide: More extensive information about each of the Four Cs, precious metals, diamond pricing, and more. Auntie's Diamonds: More extensive information presented in a humorous (and accurate) manner.

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