Diamond Symmetry
Symmetry refers to the precision and alignment of a diamond's facets. While minor asymmetries may have a negligible impact on appearance to the naked eye, symmetry is crucial for enhancing a diamond's brilliance and overall appeal. In diamonds with lower clarity grades, symmetry is less critical, but in diamonds with high clarity grades, maintaining excellent symmetry is paramount.
Common Symmetry Issues
Wavy Girdle
The girdle of a diamond should be a flat plane, parallel to the table. A "wavy" girdle, where the girdle undulates around the diamond, can disrupt symmetry and affect the diamond’s light performance.
Crown & Pavilion Misalignment
In a round diamond, the top points of the pavilion mains and the bottom points of the bezel facets should align precisely at the girdle. Misalignment of the crown and pavilion facets can detract from the diamond's visual appeal.
Extra Facets
Extra facets are typically found on the pavilion near the girdle but can occur anywhere on a diamond. These additional facets can alter the diamond’s symmetry and affect its light performance.
Off-Center Culet
To check if the culet is centered, observe the diamond in the face-up position. The lower girdle facets should form a perfect square. If the lines formed by these facets appear bent, the culet is off-center, affecting the diamond’s symmetry.
Off-Center Table
The table, the largest facet on a diamond, should be centered at the top and parallel to the girdle. An off-center table causes uneven crown angles and an unbalanced appearance.
Table & Girdle Not Parallel
If the table is not parallel to the girdle, it creates uneven crown angles, resulting in an unbalanced look from the top view.
Misshapen Face
A correctly shaped table displays a regular octagon with eight equal sides. Facets that are not properly shaped or sized can disrupt the diamond’s symmetry and aesthetic appeal.
Faces Not Pointing Up
Round brilliants are designed to exhibit 58 precisely shaped facets. Facets that do not meet at a direct point compromise the diamond's overall symmetry.
Naturals on Crown and Pavilion
Naturals are remnants of the original rough diamond. They usually occur on the girdle but can extend towards the pavilion or crown. Naturals can affect the diamond’s symmetry if not properly managed.
Understanding these symmetry features helps in appreciating the intricacies of diamond craftsmanship and selecting a diamond that exhibits optimal brilliance and beauty.
