Round Cut Diamonds
A round cut diamond, also known as a round brilliant cut diamond, is the most popular diamond shape and the one most associated with diamonds in general. Here’s a breakdown of its key characteristics:
Shape: Perfectly round, resembling a circle from both the top and the bottom.
Faceting: This is where the magic happens! A round cut diamond features 57 or 58 facets (tiny, flat surfaces) that are meticulously arranged to maximize brilliance and fire. These facets include:
Crown: The top part of the diamond, consisting of the table (the largest facet on top) and surrounding facets.
Girdle: The thin band around the diamond’s middle.
Culet: The tiny pointed tip at the bottom (may be polished or unpolished).
Pavilion: The lower part of the diamond, consisting of facets that reflect light back up through the crown.
Light Performance: The brilliance of a round cut diamond is legendary. The way the facets are arranged allows light to enter, reflect internally, and then refract back out, creating a dazzling display of sparkle and “fire” ( flashes of rainbow colors).
Versatility: Because of its classic shape and exceptional light performance, a round cut diamond complements a wide range of jewelry styles, from delicate solitaire engagement rings to statement cocktail rings.
Value: Round cut diamonds are generally more expensive than other fancy shapes due to the amount of rough diamond that needs to be cut away to achieve the perfect round shape. However, their timeless beauty and superior light performance make them a popular choice for those seeking maximum sparkle.