What are the characteristics of a modern cut diamond?

A modern cut diamond is typically characterised by the following features:

Symmetry: The diamond should have precise, balanced symmetry with all of its facets aligned and arranged in a pattern that optimises its brightness, fire, and scintillation.

Proportions: The relationship between the height, angle, and size of the diamond's crown, girdle, pavilion, and culet affects its overall brilliance and fire. A modern cut diamond should have precise proportions that work in harmony to maximise these qualities.

Polish: The surface of the diamond should be highly polished, which not only enhances its overall appearance but also affects its ability to reflect light.

Cut Grade: The cut grade of a diamond is an assessment of its overall cut quality, with the highest grades assigned to diamonds that possess excellent symmetry, proportions, and polish.

Brightness: A well-cut diamond should emit a bright white light, reflecting the maximum amount of light possible through the top of the stone.

Fire: The diamond should emit rainbow-coloured flashes of light, known as "fire," when it is moved or viewed in different lighting conditions.

Scintillation: The diamond should exhibit a sparkling effect, known as "scintillation," as it moves and the light entering it changes.

Together, these factors determine the overall appearance and beauty of a diamond, with modern cut diamonds being among the most brilliant and visually stunning stones available.

A diamond cut refers to the style in which a diamond has been shaped and polished. An old cut diamond is a type of diamond cut that was popular in the 19th and early 20th centuries.

This cut, also known as the "mine cut" or "European cut," is characterized by its rounded shape, small table, high crown, and large culet (the bottom point of a diamond). The cut was designed to maximize the weight of the diamond, rather than its brilliance and sparkle.

In contrast, modern diamond cuts are designed to optimize the diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation. Modern diamond cuts, such as the round brilliant cut, have a larger table, smaller culet, and a more intricate pattern of facets, which allow light to enter the diamond and reflect back to the viewer's eye.

In summary, the main difference between an old cut diamond and a modern cut diamond is their respective cutting styles, which result in different optical properties and appearances. Old cut diamonds have a more rounded shape and are designed to maximize weight, while modern cuts have a more intricate pattern of facets to maximize light reflection and brilliance.