GLOSSARY OF DIAMOND TERMS

BRILLIANCE

The brightness created by the reflection of light that makes a diamond unique. Brilliance iscreated when light enters through the table, travels down to the pavilion and is reflected backthrough the table.

CROWN

The upper portion of the stone above the girdle.

CULET

The lowest point on the bottom of the diamond. It is the smallest facet.

DEPTH

The distance between the table and the culet. It is measured in millimeters. The depth percentage refers to the comparison of the diamond’s depth to its width.

FACET

The smooth flat surface of a diamond that allows light to enter and be reflected.

FEATHERING

Small fractures in a diamond. When examined under a microscope, they resemble a feather.

FIRE

A rainbow of color. When white light hits a skillfully cut diamond, the light is reflected in a prism effect, creating flashes of color. This is also referred to as dispersion.

FLUORESCENCE

A diamond’s distinctive glow when the stone is seen under an ultraviolet light. The fluorescenceof a diamond is defined by its intensity, as either None, Faint, Medium, Strong or Very Strong.

In the very high colors; D, E, and F, strong blue fluorescence is less desirable. However, in the slightly lower colors of J and below, strong blue fluorescence is desirable, as it makes thediamond appear whiter.

GIRDLE

The dividing line between the top and bottom of the stone. It forms the perimeter around thewidest part of the stone and is often the part held by prongs in a setting.

GRAINING

ATiny internal imperfections that may appear milky or as streaks.

INCLUSIONS

Internal imperfections in the diamond that can affect its clarity grade.

PAVILION

The bottom part of the stone from the girdle to the culet.

POLISH

The finishing touch to the facets. The polish is graded from Excellent to Poor. Select a diamond that is graded Good or higher for polish.

SCINTILATION

Sparkling tiny flashes of reflected light.

SYMMETRY

The alignment and positioning of the diamond’s facets. The symmetry of a diamond generally rangesfrom Excellent to Poor. When purchasing a diamond, select one that is defined as Good or higher.

TABLE

The flat top facet in the center of the stone. It is the largest facet of the diamond.

Always consult an expert certified gemologist before investing in a diamond. To speak with an expert call or email (561) 716-0377, This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .