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Diamond Anatomy

Better Understanding of Diamond Terms

Diamonds were formed over 3 billion years ago when carbon crystallised under extreme pressure and temperature to become one of the hardest natural substances on Earth. Diamond ranks highest on the Mohs scale of hardness. However, each diamond has its unique structure and features. To better understand a diamond, it’s important to know the specific names given to its various parts. This understanding of diamond anatomy will help you make more informed choices when selecting your perfect diamond.

 

What is Diamond Anatomy?

Diamond anatomy refers to the specific terms used to describe the structure and proportions of a diamond. Learning these terms helps you understand how different parts of a diamond impact its sparkle, brilliance, and overall appearance. This knowledge is especially useful for making faster and more confident decisions when buying a diamond.

A diamond consists of several key components, such as the Table, Crown, Facets, Girdle, Pavilion, Depth, and Culet. The balance and proportions between the table and depth have the greatest effect on how much a diamond sparkles.

Let’s break down diamond anatomy in simple and easy terms:
 
 

Diamond Anatomy

Upper Part of the Diamond:

  • Facet: The polished surfaces of a diamond that reflect and refract light, creating a beautiful display of sparkle and rainbow-like colours.

  • Table: The largest and topmost facet of a diamond. It's octagon-shaped and allows light to enter and reflect, making it the most visible part.

  • Crown: The upper section of the diamond, located between the table and the girdle. It includes multiple facets that affect the diamond's brilliance.

  • Upper Girdle Facets (Upper Halves): These facets extend upward from the girdle edge toward the table, influencing how light travels through the diamond.

  • Star Facets: Triangular-shaped facets that start from the edge of the table and point toward the girdle.

  • Bezel Facets: Kite-shaped facets located between the table and the girdle, contributing to the diamond’s fire and sparkle.

  • Girdle: The narrow band that forms the boundary between the crown and the pavilion. It is the widest part of the diamond and plays an important role in setting the stone securely.

  

 

Lower Part of the Diamond:

  • Pavilion: The lower section of the diamond, located between the girdle and the culet. It helps reflect light through the crown.

  • Lower Girdle Facets (Lower Halves): These facets extend downward from the girdle toward the culet and influence the diamond’s brilliance.

  • Pavilion Main Facets: Arrow-shaped facets between the girdle and the culet. Also called arrow facets, they impact how light exits the diamond.

  • Culet: The small point or facet at the very bottom of the diamond where the pavilion facets meet. In many modern diamonds, the culet is either very small or nonexistent.

Conclusion

Understanding basic diamond terminology will help you recognize the key aspects of a diamond’s appearance and quality. This knowledge enables you to identify what affects sparkle, brilliance, and light performance, helping you make a confident and well-informed decision when purchasing a diamond.

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