The main factor that can either ace up or ruins the diamond cut quality is its polish and symmetry. Usually, the diamond cutter will buff the gemstone after cutting it to give it a smooth and glass-like appeal. After this, a diamond inspector will thoroughly check the stones using a diamond loupe to check whether there is any imperfection in case of polishing or cutting. If so, it will be sent back to the cutter to give it a better finishing. The imperfections include disproportions in the cut and the polish marks. Note that while inclusion or flaws are present in diamond naturally, the polish marks occur as a result of human error. In fact, most diamonds showcase some kind of flaws because of their polishing. However, most of these flaws are so minute that they will be invisible to the human eye, unlike the symmetry errors. Even the top diamond cuts are vulnerable to these errors. Now, most people will be wondering about the exact purpose of diamond symmetry and polish. If you are also wondering about the same, you may refer to the points given below.
How polish affect the diamond cut quality
You may rarely find polish marks on the diamonds since most jewelers are particular to provide diamonds of very good or excellent quality to their consumers. In case there are any visible marks it can affect the fire and brilliance of the gemstone. As mentioned earlier, most polish marks on diamonds will be so microscopic and you will be able to find it only using a diamond loupe. Some of the common polish marks include;
- Scratch
- Abrasion
- Nick
- Rough girdle
- Lizard skin
- Pit
- Burn marks
Some diamond users tend to re-polish their diamond after a period of time in order to regain its brilliance and fire. This is mostly done in the case of vintage or antique diamond rings. However, by polishing a diamond, the buffer is removing a tiny layer from its top and hence, it may reflect on the carat weight of your stone. However, the appeal and enhanced brilliance of your diamonds will surely balance it.
How symmetry affects the diamond cut quality
Diamond symmetry refers to placement and organization of facets in a gemstone. The facet placement in the one side of the symmetric diamond will be the exact mirror image of the other half. Usually, the features that are evaluated to assess the symmetry of a diamond are;
- The shape and size of facets
- Placement of culets when compared to its table
- The position of the crown and pavilion
However, some cutters may sacrifice on the diamond symmetry for its appeal and to tackle rough diamond wastage. Sadly, if a diamond is not symmetrical, you cannot expect it to exhibit the quintessential brilliance. Anyhow, most professional recommend to choose high polish diamonds and to sacrifice a bit on its internal symmetry for a cost-effective purchase. Having said that, never purchase a diamond that features asymmetric shape.
