Colored gemstones are generally cut to maximize the beauty of their color. To
recognize quality in the cut of a gemstone, there are several points to
consider.
WHAT TO LOOK FOR
A good cut showcases the gemstone's color, diminishes its inclusions, and
exhibits good overall symmetry and proportion. Because gemstone color can vary,
there are no hard geometrical standards when it comes to maximizing brilliance
or color. Gemstones, especially rarer ones, are sometimes cut for size without
regard for their color. For example, when corundum varieties such as sapphire
and ruby are cut for maximum weight rather than beauty, they may display banded
colors or streaks. Blue Nile sells only the finest quality, hand-selected
colored gemstones.
|
|
Tip:In a gemstone with more saturated color, the best cut may be more shallow
than average, permitting more light to penetrate the gemstone, while in a less
saturated gem, the color may benefit from a deeper cut.
|
GEMSTONE CUT
Look at the gemstone in the setting and ensure that all the facets are
symmetrical. An asymmetrically-cut crown indicates a gemstone of low-quality.
In all cases, a well-cut gemstone is symmetrical and reflects light evenly
across the surface, and the polish is smooth, without any nicks or scratches.
| |
Tip:Like diamonds, fine quality color gems usually have a table, crown, girdle,
pavilion, and culet. Iridescent opals are one exception, and most often have a
rounded cabochon cut.
|
|