Education's

Anatomy

Diamonds are a type of naturally occurring mineral composed of carbon atoms. They possess unique physical and chemical properties, including extraordinary hardness, a high refractive index, and the ability to disperse light. As a result, diamonds are highly valued for their use in jewellery and cutting tools.

The anatomy of a diamond can be broken down into several different parts:

  • Table: The flat top surface of a diamond, which is used to evaluate the diamond's overall quality and appearance.
  • Crown: The upper portion of a diamond above the girdle, made up of the bezel facets and the table.
  • Girdle: The widest part of the diamond that separates the crown from the pavilion.
  • Pavilion: The lower part of a diamond below the girdle, consisting of the lower facets and the culet.
  • Culet: The small, flat surface on the bottom of the pavilion that protects the diamond's tip from damage.
  • Culet angle: The angle at which the culet is cut, which can impact the diamond's symmetry and light performance.
  • Facets: The polished, flat surfaces on a diamond that reflect light and create its sparkle. A round diamond typically has 57 or 58 facets, including star facets, upper-girdle facets, lower-girdle facets, and pavilion facets.

Understanding the anatomy of a diamond is essential in determining its overall value and beauty. The quality and proportion of each component, including the cut, symmetry, and finish, play an important role in the diamond's appearance and light performance.