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FINE JEWELS & TIMEPIECES The Masterful Art of Diamond Cutting
Much like an expert sculptor, diamond cutters are skilled artisans capable of transforming a natural rough stone into a polished treasure. The process of cutting a diamond is highly technical. A great deal of analysis is needed to ensure that the light, weight, and colour of the stone is retained and that the symmetry and proportions are correct. Whilst modern day technological advances have aided the cutting process, it is ultimately the technical knowledge and skill of the diamond cutter that produces a beautiful gem from the raw mined material. Below are some of the most popular diamond cuts, from the Georgian period to today.
ROSE CUT One of the earliest diamond shapes originating from Europe was the Rose cut. Characterized by a flat base and only 24 facets to the domed top, it creates a gentle and subtle brilliance. Popular in Georgian and Victorian jewellery, these stones dazzle in candlelight and other low lighting conditions.
OLD EUROPEAN CUT Cut to maximize weight and colour, the old European cut was most popular between 1890 and 1930. Faceted by hand with 58 large facets, these stones also have a substantial culet and crown with relatively smaller table. These proportions create fire within the stone, which refers to the dispersion of coloured light. Like Rose cuts, old European cut diamonds are faceted by hand and rely on cutter instinct rather than precision.
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TOP: 14CT GOLD, ENAMEL AND
DIAMOND RING Sold for $4,000 BOTTOM: 18CT WHITE GOLD AND
DIAMOND RING $6,000 – 8,000 Fine Jewels and Timepieces March 2022
