Fancy Cut Diamond Grading
ReadWith a multitude of diamond cuts available to create your engagement ring with, how do the pros distinguish between them? The term ‘fancy cut’ is widely used in the diamond world, and this guide offers an introduction to their grading and how it differs from the 4C’s.
WHAT IS A FANCY CUT DIAMOND?
‘Fancy cut’ is the term used to describe any modern diamond cut other than a round brilliant. Traditional fancy cuts include oval, pear, emerald, asscher, marquise and radiant cuts to name a few.
WHY CHOOSE A FANCY CUT?
According to GIA, it’s estimated that around 75% of all diamonds sold are round. Despite rounds being the overarching industry standard, there are a multitude of reasons that our clients opt for a fancy cut instead.
Visually a fancy cut diamond will appear bigger than the same carat weight in a round brilliant cut. This is because of the weight distribution in fancy cuts which tend to be longer than a round. Due to their popularity, round brilliant diamonds are also more expensive per carat.
AND MORE...
Fancy cut diamonds also offer variety and the opportunity to explore and reflect your style, or your partner’s, within the engagement ring. Emerald cuts are sleek and minimal, while pear cuts lend a vintage feel to the ring. If you’re seeking a twist on the classic engagement ring, it’s worth considering a fancy cut.
WHAT SHOULD I LOOK OUT FOR?
Fancy cut diamonds are graded by three elements of the 4C’s - Carat, Colour and Clarity - but Cut does not apply due to the non-standardised cuts of these varied diamonds.
SYMMETRY & POLISH
Instead, look to Symmetry and Polish gradings to assess a fancy cut diamond’s finish. Symmetry refers to the alignment of a diamond’s facets. Polish considers the smoothness and condition of a diamond’s surface assessed under 10x magnification.
HOW ARE THEY GRADED?
Both Symmetry and Polish are rated from Poor to Excellent and we would always recommend sourcing ‘Very Good’ or ‘Excellent’ gradings for Symmetry and Polish.
Discover more on Symmetry and Polish in a fancy cut diamond GIA report guide.
HOW DO I CREATE A FANCY CUT DIAMOND RING?
Any of our Made to Order engagement rings can be recreated with a fancy cut diamond at their centre. To view our rings in person, or for a digital consultation, book in using the link below.
