Diamond cutting is a specialized process with precise steps to transform rough diamond into polished gemstone.
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Planning: Prior to cutting, the rough diamond is analyzed to optimize its beauty and value while reducing waste. This involves assessing the diamond's shape, size, and internal features.
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Cleaving or Sawing: The rough diamond can be cleaved or sawn into smaller pieces based on its size and shape. Cleaving involves splitting the diamond on its natural planes of weakness with a sharp blade, while sawing uses a diamond-edged saw to cut the diamond.
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Bruting: Following cleaving or sawing, the diamond undergoes bruting, also referred to as girdling or rounding. Here, the diamond's shape is shaped by grinding it against another diamond on a spinning wheel, establishing the girdle, the outer edge of the diamond.
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Faceting: Faceting involves cutting and polishing the diamond's facets, flat, polished surfaces reflecting light and enhancing brilliance. Held in place by a rotating dop, the facets are polished using diamond-coated laps or wheels. Each facet is meticulously positioned and polished to precise angles and proportions for maximum sparkle and fire.
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Final Inspection and Certification: Upon completion of faceting, the diamond is inspected to verify quality standards. It may undergo grading and certification by a gemological laboratory for quality assurance.
Throughout the cutting process, skilled artisans known as diamond cutters use specialized tools and techniques to shape and polish the diamond with precision and care. The goal is to enhance the diamond's natural beauty and maximize its value as a gemstone.