One of the most important things that you can learn before you buy a diamond is it's "anatomy." These factors are critical measures in determining the quality of a diamond's cut.

Please click here and take a moment to familiarize yourself with the terms used when describing the anatomy of a diamond.

Light entering the diamond reflects internally from facet to facet and is reflected back through the top only, creating maximum brilliance, scintillation and dispersion.*

	Standard Cut Most diamonds are “spread” in their cutting to retain maximum weight from the original rough. A heavier diamond will result, but with the sacrifice of fire and brilliance.
	Too Deep When a diamond is cut too deep, light* leaks out of the bottom, brilliance is lost, and the center of the diamond will appear to be dark. This is called “Nailhead.”
	Too Shallow When a diamond is cut too shallow, light* leaks out of the bottom, brilliance is lost, and the diamond appears watery, glassy and dark. This is called “Fisheye”.