Diamond Symmetry
Symmetry refers to the alignment and shape of a diamond’s facets, representing the precision of its cut. Facets should be uniform in size and shape, ensuring consistent appearance when viewed from different angles. Evaluating symmetry can be challenging for amateurs. Fortunately, it’s a component of a diamond’s cut grade. Opting for diamonds with excellent cut grades typically guarantees high symmetry, simplifying the selection process.
How does Symmetry impact a Diamond?
Symmetry significantly affects how effectively a diamond interacts with light, directly impacting its brilliance. Diamonds with good symmetry ensure that light travels optimally through the stone, bouncing off facets and angles before returning through the table to the viewer’s eyes. Poor symmetry results in light dispersing at incorrect angles, potentially exiting through the diamond’s bottom or sides. This loss of light reflection diminishes the diamond’s sparkle.
Diamond Symmetry Grade Scale
The GIA has established clear and distinct grades for evaluating diamond symmetry. Symmetry is assessed on a scale ranging from Excellent to Poor, determined by the presence and visibility of symmetry deviations under 10x magnification.
Excellent: Diamonds with Excellent symmetry with minimal deviations. Their tables are precisely centred, devoid of extra or missing facets.
Very Good: Very Good symmetry diamonds may have minor flaws, such as slight misalignments.
Good: Diamonds with Good symmetry display a few deviations.
Fair: Fair symmetry diamonds show several deviations, including misalignments and misshapen features, leading to reduced brilliance.
Poor: Poor symmetry diamonds feature noticeable flaws, resulting in a dull appearance.
Importance of Diamond Symmetry
Symmetry plays a crucial role not only in determining a diamond’s value but also in shaping its aesthetic appeal. Precise facet alignment contributes to superior sparkle, enhancing the overall beauty of the stone. While symmetry is an important consideration, it’s essential to recognize that the difference between diamonds with Excellent and Very Good symmetry grades can be subtle and challenging to discern without expert inspection and magnification. A key recommendation is to avoid diamonds graded as “poor” or “fair” for symmetry. These stones often exhibit noticeable imperfections that detract from their sparkle and visual appeal.
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