3 replies to this topic

[K Logan]

I've been looking at a bunch of diamonds and am still stuck on the whole idea of ideal proportions. I've had some jewelers tell me it's nothing to base my purchase on if I like a diamond but it isn't "ideal." But then, I'll go to another jeweler and they're all about how "this is an ideal cut" and "ideal this" and "ideal that."

I'm completely confused.

Once and for all....what's the deal with ideal?

-Ken

[barry]

There are diamonds that fall just out of "ideal" proportions that can be visually attractive.

You should compare several "ideal" diamonds next to, for example, diamonds that may have 60% tables/depths and see which are more appealing to you.

Nothing confusing about that.

[denverappraiser]

Ken,

The problem is that the word ‘ideal’ means different things to different people. In most cases, it’s a set of proportions that someone has decided are attractive. The AGS system is used by a fair number of dealers but there are many other choices and anyone who wants to can create their own definition. I know of at least 5.

Here are a few

If someone describes a stone as ideal, ask them what they mean by that term. If they are less than precise in explaining it, assume it means about the same as if they had described the stone as ‘awesome’ (which may very well be true). As Barry points out, falling outside one particular definition of ideal proportions does not mean that it isn’t a fantastic stone. Not even AGS (who authored the system that is most commonly in use) will claim that the term ‘ideal’ means the same as ‘best’.

Neil Beaty
GG(GIA) ISA NAJA

[jan]

Better to get a light performance analysis on the stone versus going by a couple of numbers on a lab report. I've seen some ideal cut diamonds that were not as bright as a non ideal cut. You need to see them in person and compare them side by side. Your eyes will tell you which is the most beautiful diamond to you.



Jan