Which diamond shape looks the biggest?
Elongated shapes like Oval, Pear, and Marquise look larger face-up than a Round Brilliant of the same carat weight.
What is the ideal ratio for an Oval cut?
For a classic look, we recommend a length-to-width ratio between 1.35 and 1.50. This avoids the 'bow-tie' effect while keeping the elegant shape.
Do you cut 'Hearts and Arrows'?
Yes. Our premium Round Brilliant HPHT stones are cut to strict 'Hearts and Arrows' optical symmetry standards for maximum light performance.
What is a 'crushed ice' cushion cut?
This refers to a specific faceting pattern (often modified brilliant) that creates many small reflections, hiding inclusions and maximizing sparkle.
Is Emerald cut cheaper than Round?
Yes. Emerald cuts (step cuts) retain more weight from the rough crystal, so the price per carat is often lower than Round Brilliant.
Do you offer Asscher cuts?
Yes. We cut classic Royal Asscher style stones. These require high clarity (VVS+) because the open table makes inclusions visible.
What is the 'bow-tie' effect in Ovals?
It's a dark shadow across the center of the stone. Our cutters minimize this by adjusting the depth and pavilion angles, but some shadow is inevitable in elongated cuts.
Can you cut a PORTRAIT cut diamond?
Yes. Portrait cuts are very flat, glass-like stones. We can custom cut them for specialized jewelry designs.
What is the difference between Radiant and Cushion?
Radiant has cut corners and straight edges with a brilliant facet pattern. Cushion has curved, pillowy edges. Radiant is 'sharper'; Cushion is 'softer'.
Do you have Old European Cut (OEC)?
Yes. We can custom cut vintage styles like OEC or Old Mine Cut (OMC) for antique-style jewelry.
What is the best shape for short fingers?
Elongated shapes like Oval, Pear, or Emerald lengthen the appearance of the finger.
Do fancy shapes have cut grades on IGI reports?
IGI gives a cut grade for Round Brilliant. For shapes like Oval, they grade Polish and Symmetry. We ensure 'Excellent' for both.
What is the smallest size you cut?
We cut melee down to 0.7mm (0.003ct). These are used for micro-pave settings.
What is the largest HPHT stone you can grow?
We can grow rough up to 20+ carats. The largest polished D-color stone currently is around 10 carats.
Is Princess cut still popular?
Demand has shifted to Oval and Radiant, but Princess remains a classic choice for maximum brilliance in a square shape.
Do pear shapes chip easily?
The pointed tip is vulnerable. We recommend settings with V-prongs (chevron prongs) to protect the tip.
What is a 'moval' cut?
It's a hybrid between a Marquise and an Oval, with rounded points. We can custom cut this unique shape.
Which shape hides color best?
Round Brilliant hides faint color best due to high light return. Step cuts (Emerald/Asscher) show color most.
Which shape hides inclusions best?
Brilliant cuts (Round, Radiant, Cushion) hide inclusions well. Step cuts reveal imperfections easily.
Can you match a pair of Pears for earrings?
Yes. We have a vast inventory and can pick perfectly matched pairs for dimensions, color, and clarity.