CUT:FACE-UP
OUTLINE CONSIDERATIONS
Descriptions of shape are used in combination with gemstone names, such
as "pear-shaped diamond" or "oval ruby." This section
considers the factors of face-up outline in shapes such as pears and ovals.
An insight into the aspects of quality is necessary when judging gemstones,
even if considering just the single aspect of shape. Actually, when arguing
the merits of gemstone shapes, the face-up outline is closely connected
to the gemstone's essential beauty. Symmetry is also important. Beauty
cannot be measured strictly by whether there is a slight imperfection visible
at 10-power magnification, or if the color grade happens to be H. In other
words, there are many different stones with imperfections visible under
magnification or with a color grade of H, and whether or not those factors
adversely affect beauty varies on a case-by-case basis. Furthermore, personal
preference and compatibility with the jewelry's design are elements that
must be taken into consideration. It would not be an exaggeration, however,
to say that the quality of the face-up outline is key to the beauty of
a gemstone.
Consider the two pear-shaped diamonds shown. The one on the left has a
gentle pear-like shape, while the other appears to have stiff shoulders.
A pear shape with a top half that curves in a perfect circle, like the
one on the left, is considered the optimum shape. Though there may be room
for disagreement, most people would judge the one on the left as more beautiful.
Of the two oval-shaped diamonds to the right, the one on the left has smooth
curves that suggest a comfortable feeling of balance. On the other hand,
the one on the right seems to have an unnatural shape. The difference becomes
even more apparent when one imagines how each stone would appear when set
in jewelry. To the jeweler whose policy is not to use poorly shaped stones
like the oval on the right, such a stone has no value.
Whether the facets are placed accurately, whether they are polished flat,
and whether they are finished with care- these are all consideration of
cut. Trustworthy jewelers with strive to achieve consistent quality levels
by establishing minimum acceptable standards for the gemstones they carry.
Crystals formed in nature come in an infinitive variety of sizes, colors,
degree of imperfections, and shapes, so a cutter's relentless pursuit of
the single perfect stone will never be successful. If a stone becomes too
small from weight loss, it will end up an unattractive stone. |
| Pear Shapes: Face-Up
Outline Considerations |
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Weight:3.54ct
Size(mm):L14.3 x W8.7 x D4.78
Gem Quality |
Weight:5.04ct
Size(mm):L14.7 x W10.2 x D5.84
Jewelry Quality |
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| Oval Shapes:
Face-Up Outline Considerations |
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Weight:0.38ct
Size(mm):L5.7 x W4.2 x D2.49
Gem Quality |
Weight:0.31ct
Size(mm):L5.6 x W3.9 x D2.03
Jewelry Quality |
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