DCA Diamond Cutting & Polish Techniques Flashcards

Which cutting style features long, rectangular facets arranged in parallel rows?

Answer: Step cut

Step cuts feature rows of parallel, rectangular facets that resemble the steps of a staircase, emphasizing clarity over brilliance.

What is 'symmetry' as a grade category in diamond cutting?

Answer: How precisely the facets align and balance with each other

Symmetry refers to the exactness of the diamond's outline and the placement, shape, and alignment of its facets relative to one another.

What is the 'fire' of a diamond caused by?

Answer: Dispersion of white light into spectral colors

Fire refers to the flashes of spectral color (rainbow colors) produced by a diamond's ability to disperse white light into its component wavelengths.

In a round brilliant cut, what are 'kite-shaped' facets on the crown called?

Answer: Bezel facets

Bezel facets are the large kite-shaped facets on the crown of a round brilliant that surround the table.

What cutting defect occurs when the culet is too large and appears as a dark circle when viewed from above?

Answer: Open or large culet

A large culet creates an 'open culet' effect that appears as a dark circle visible through the table when viewed face-up, which can reduce the diamond's appeal.

Which of the following best describes 'scintillation' in a diamond?

Answer: The pattern of light and dark areas seen when the diamond moves

Scintillation describes the sparkle (flashes of light) and the pattern of light and dark areas visible when a diamond, the observer, or the light source moves.