Round Cut Diamonds
Round-cut diamonds are the most sought-after choice for engagement rings, accounting for nearly 70% of all diamonds sold. With 58 facets, the classic round cut is designed to
maximise radiance and sparkle.
While purchasing a round diamond may seem straightforward, there are still important
details to consider.
Assuming you’ve already chosen a diamond with an excellent cut, symmetry, and
polish – that will be able to achieve an 8/10 rating.
To elevate the diamond to a perfect 10/10, attention to detail is essential.
Cut Grade
The cut grade is key to finding a diamond with exceptional sparkle. Grading laboratories have simplified this process for consumers. For GIA certificates, aim for an "Excellent" rating, and for IGI certificates, look for "Ideal." Avoid grades lower than these for the best results.
Colour
Round diamonds have the advantage of concealing colour more effectively than other shapes. Ideally, opt for diamonds within the DEF Colourless range. However, G colour provides an excellent balance between performance and cost, as it is challenging to distinguish from an F colour diamond. It is advisable not to go below G, as diamonds of lower colour grades may exhibit a noticeable yellow tint.
These high-quality options may be rare, but the team at Annys will go above and beyond to find the finest selections available.
Colour Balance
Diamonds naturally display a mix of white, black, and yellow hues. Achieving balance among these colours is essential. Even D-colour diamonds can exhibit these hues due to the inherent sparkle and light reflection of the diamond.
Good Examples Below
Bad Examples Below
Clarity
Clarity is crucial when purchasing natural round diamonds. To get the best value, focus on clarity, as the top 10% of SI1 diamonds will appear virtually flawless to the naked eye.
Good Examples Below
Bad Examples Below
Hearts and Arrows
A Hearts and Arrows diamond refers to a precision-cut round diamond with exceptional symmetry. When viewed through a special tool, these diamonds exhibit a distinctive pattern.
Arrows: Visible from the top of the diamond, this pattern appears as eight arrows radiating from the centre when you look down at the stone.
Hearts: When viewed from the bottom, you’ll see a pattern of eight hearts, which correspond to the facets on the pavilion (bottom) of the diamond.
The Hearts and Arrows pattern indicates superior optical symmetry, an important characteristic of a well-cut diamond. However, it’s worth noting that not all ideal-cut diamonds exhibit this pattern. Some excellent-cut diamonds may not show the Hearts and Arrows pattern but can still be incredibly beautiful.
