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A Guide to Ideal Cut Diamonds


What is an ideal cut diamond?


Ideal cut diamonds feature proportions and facet angles resulting in the greatest optical performance. 

The importance of diamond cut.


Many people appreciate the importance of diamond cut on the performance of light within the stone. The earlier pioneers of the optimal cut grade were unaware of the term 'ideal,' a term introduced in recent years to describe a set of perfect proportions to maximise optical performance. 

How does an ideal-cut diamond affect the cost?


On average, ideal cut diamonds demand between 10% - 30% over non-ideal cut diamonds. The cut of a diamond can influence the value of the stone by as much as a staggering 40%.

Can you see an ideal-cut with the naked eye?


It is possible to recognise an ideal cut diamond with the naked eye. Most ideal-cut diamonds produce a distinctive arrows pattern when viewed directly from above, looking down into the table facet. 

For example, the ideal cut diamond engagement ring below features an excellent 'hearts and arrows' arrangement with an excellent cut grade. Note the distinctive pattern of arrows when viewed from above. We created this ring design with Elvish engraved shoulders through our bespoke ring design service.   

What are Hearts & Arrows diamonds?


Some diamonds are described as "Hearts and Arrows" to describe the ideal proportions visible to the naked eye. Some diamonds feature an excellent, cut, polish, and symmetry without providing the distinctive hearts and arrows arrangement. During our showroom appointments, we use a piece of equipment called an 'ideal scope' to make it easier for clients to see this arrangement. The ideal scope reveals a kaleidoscope effect when viewed with the naked eye. 


What to expect when viewing a diamond under the idealscope.


The idealscope creates two different effects depending on which way up you place the diamond. We place the diamond in a small central dimple in the base of the idealscope. Then the instrument is lowered onto the base and viewed through the opening in the top of the scope. 

How to buy an ideal cut diamond and pay half the price.


It is possible to buy an ideal cut for half the price, by choosing a lab-grown diamond option. Currently, lab-created diamonds work out to around 50% less than a natural mined diamond by comparison. Moreover, most lab diamonds are proportioned with excellent cuts for no additional cost. Please contact us for a tailored quote based on lab-diamonds currently available. 


Lab-grown diamonds above 0.25 carats typically include a diamond grading report, or certificate. Our example below demonstrates the appearance of a diamond certificate from the International Gemological Institute (IGI). Note the ideal cut description included. 

Example of an ideal cut diamond engagement ring


Our video below shows the diamond referenced in the above certificate. This elegant diamond solitaire engagement ring comes from our ready-made jewellery collection priced at £2166.00 which is incredible for a 1 carat diamond engagement ring.