Gemstone cut and shape definitions

4 Cs of diamonds

Cut   

The cut refers to the proportions (i.e., height, width) and facets of a diamond. A well-cut stone reflects more light, creating more sparkle. Cut does not refer to the diamond's shape, such as round brilliant, pear or marquise. (See below)

Color

Diamonds come in a range of colors, from colorless to faint yellow, brown, pink, blue, and green. A colorless diamond allows white light to pass through it and be dispersed as rainbows of color. Perfectly colorless diamonds are rare.

Clarity

Most diamonds contain very tiny natural inclusions, which are minerals trapped inside the stone. The fewer inclusions, the more light can pass through the stone. A diamond does not necessarily need to be flawless to be beautiful.

Carat-weight

This is the weight of the diamond measured in carats. Each carat is divided into 100 points. A diamond that is 50 points weighs .50 carats.

Gemstone shapes

Brilliant or round

This is a faceted cut that produces the greatest brilliance in a diamond. It has 58 facets—33 are above the girdle and 25 are below. Traditionally, brilliant has been the most popular cut and is usually widely available.

Single

A round diamond cut with 18 facets, used mostly for smaller stones.

Fancy

Any diamond cut other than a round brilliant or single cut, such as marquise, pear, and emerald.

Marquise

Resembles an oval that tapers to points at both ends.

Pear

A pear or teardrop with a point at one end.

Emerald

Usually rectangular but, sometimes, square cut. The stone is cut with rows of facets along the edges and corners that resemble steps.

Princess

A modified brilliant square-cut diamond. A princess cut may be more prone to having the corners chip, but this can be minimized with a setting that protects the four corners.

No matter which cut or color you select, remember that protecting your jewelry with jewelry insurance can provide peace of mind as well as repair or replacement in the event of jewelry damage, jewelry theft or loss. And know that with Jewelers Mutual there is no need for diamond or colored stone specialty insurance. We cover all types of fine jewelry.