Q Report Team
Timeline of Diamond Cutting
Visit your favourite jeweller, and you can feast your eyes on stunning .
Explore Q Report's Content Centre for expert advice on jewellery insurance. You can also read e-guides and blogs, watch videos and more.
Q Report Team
When miners extract diamonds from the earth, the rough stones look nothing like the luminous sparkly gems you see showcased in jewellery stores. In the hands of expert diamond cutters, however, a rough stone transforms into an other-worldly wonder. Since diamonds are made of the world’s hardest material, only a diamond has the strength to mechanically cut another diamond. Today, lasers are sometimes used for cuts, but they’re usually limited in their functionality.
So what does that process look like? When you understand how diamonds are cut, you gain a new appreciation for the stones set in engagement rings, bracelets and earrings.
In this article, we’ll show you what really goes on behind the scenes. How do diamond cutters take a diamond-in-the-rough and transform it into a beautiful gem? There are five main steps, as follows:
A flawlessly cut diamond begins with impeccable planning; this is the most critical step to get right. While planning can be time-consuming, it helps determine the final value of the finished product.
Today, most diamond cutters use software to help them configure the best possible shapes for each rough stone, based on things like inclusions within the stone. This process helps minimise waste and maximise the yield of each rough diamond. A Sarine machine generates accurate measurements and produces the best arrangements for the cuts.
Sometimes, several diamonds are cut from one rough stone. Even for complicated configurations, the computer software formulates 3D models that show the cutter the optimal ways to proceed.
With the cuts planned out by the software, the cutter is ready for cleaving and sawing. The cleaving process splits the rough into separate pieces. At this point, the cutter can work on the pieces separately and fully use the rough.
This stage also involves mechanical sawing. In the case of oddly shaped roughs, lasers might be employed for a contactless solution.
Once the diamond is split, the cutter uses bruting to round the edges of the rough stones. Some people refer to this process as ‘girdling.’ Here’s how it works: the cutter places two diamonds on a spinning axle across from each other. Then, the machine turns them in opposite directions as they grind against each other, resulting in a rough girdle finish.
With the rough diamond shaped into a round form, the next step is to create and form the diamond’s facets. The cutter puts the rough on a rotating arm and polishes the rough with a spinning wheel. The wheel smooths out the facets and causes them to reflect light.
Polishing involves two further steps:
The cutter adds eight pavilion mains, eight crowns, one culet, and one table during the blocking process. The primary purpose of blocking is to create a template for the next phase.
The brillianteering stage adds the remaining facets (ending up with a total of 57). The brillianteer then puts the finishing touches on the cutting--this is where the fire and brilliance of the diamond are determined.
The last step in the diamond-cutting process is inspection. After all the work of planning, cleaving, sawing, bruting and polishing, this is the stage where the diamond is checked for quality. The manufacturer will have asked for certain specifications, and if the stone doesn’t meet them, it’s sent back to the polishers for touching up.
That’s it for cutting, but there’s usually one more step before a diamond is shipped to a jeweller for setting in a ring, pendant or luxury watch.
Diamonds are usually sent to one of the top gemological labs (such as the GIA or AGS) for a grading report. Experts at the lab measure and grade the diamond on carat weight, cut quality, colour and clarity. Diamond grading not only increases the value of the diamond but also helps consumers buy gemstones with confidence.
Each diamond is one-of-a-kind. It formed millions of years ago, deep within the earth’s crust, and it took an incredible journey up to the surface where it was mined and then turned into a dazzling sparkler.
When you purchase one of these treasured gemstones, protect it with Q Report insurance. Whether your diamond has ended up in a stunning engagement ring or a sophisticated bracelet, it should be worn and enjoyed. And you’ll feel more comfortable wearing it when you know it’s protected for damage, theft and loss.
To get a free quote for our specialised jewellery insurance, just fill out this form. You’ll be surprised how inexpensive it is to protect the things you love.
To get an accurate insurance quote, please provide the amount from your purchase receipt.
Don't have the receipt?
If you don't have the receipt, you can provide the most recent valuation amount instead.
When miners extract diamonds from the earth, the rough stones look nothing like the luminous sparkly gems you see showcased in jewellery stores. In the hands of expert diamond cutters, however, a rough stone transforms into an other-worldly wonder. Since diamonds are made of the world’s hardest material, only a diamond has the strength to mechanically cut another diamond. Today, lasers are sometimes used for cuts, but they’re usually limited in their functionality.
So what does that process look like? When you understand how diamonds are cut, you gain a new appreciation for the stones set in engagement rings, bracelets and earrings.
In this article, we’ll show you what really goes on behind the scenes. How do diamond cutters take a diamond-in-the-rough and transform it into a beautiful gem? There are five main steps, as follows:
A flawlessly cut diamond begins with impeccable planning; this is the most critical step to get right. While planning can be time-consuming, it helps determine the final value of the finished product.
Today, most diamond cutters use software to help them configure the best possible shapes for each rough stone, based on things like inclusions within the stone. This process helps minimise waste and maximise the yield of each rough diamond. A Sarine machine generates accurate measurements and produces the best arrangements for the cuts.
Sometimes, several diamonds are cut from one rough stone. Even for complicated configurations, the computer software formulates 3D models that show the cutter the optimal ways to proceed.
With the cuts planned out by the software, the cutter is ready for cleaving and sawing. The cleaving process splits the rough into separate pieces. At this point, the cutter can work on the pieces separately and fully use the rough.
This stage also involves mechanical sawing. In the case of oddly shaped roughs, lasers might be employed for a contactless solution.
Once the diamond is split, the cutter uses bruting to round the edges of the rough stones. Some people refer to this process as ‘girdling.’ Here’s how it works: the cutter places two diamonds on a spinning axle across from each other. Then, the machine turns them in opposite directions as they grind against each other, resulting in a rough girdle finish.
With the rough diamond shaped into a round form, the next step is to create and form the diamond’s facets. The cutter puts the rough on a rotating arm and polishes the rough with a spinning wheel. The wheel smooths out the facets and causes them to reflect light.
Polishing involves two further steps:
The cutter adds eight pavilion mains, eight crowns, one culet, and one table during the blocking process. The primary purpose of blocking is to create a template for the next phase.
The brillianteering stage adds the remaining facets (ending up with a total of 57). The brillianteer then puts the finishing touches on the cutting--this is where the fire and brilliance of the diamond are determined.
The last step in the diamond-cutting process is inspection. After all the work of planning, cleaving, sawing, bruting and polishing, this is the stage where the diamond is checked for quality. The manufacturer will have asked for certain specifications, and if the stone doesn’t meet them, it’s sent back to the polishers for touching up.
That’s it for cutting, but there’s usually one more step before a diamond is shipped to a jeweller for setting in a ring, pendant or luxury watch.
Diamonds are usually sent to one of the top gemological labs (such as the GIA or AGS) for a grading report. Experts at the lab measure and grade the diamond on carat weight, cut quality, colour and clarity. Diamond grading not only increases the value of the diamond but also helps consumers buy gemstones with confidence.
Each diamond is one-of-a-kind. It formed millions of years ago, deep within the earth’s crust, and it took an incredible journey up to the surface where it was mined and then turned into a dazzling sparkler.
When you purchase one of these treasured gemstones, protect it with Q Report insurance. Whether your diamond has ended up in a stunning engagement ring or a sophisticated bracelet, it should be worn and enjoyed. And you’ll feel more comfortable wearing it when you know it’s protected for damage, theft and loss.
To get a free quote for our specialised jewellery insurance, just fill out this form. You’ll be surprised how inexpensive it is to protect the things you love.
Unlike their battery-powered quartz counterparts, luxury watches have a beating heart – the mechanical movement. First created in the 14th century, large, weight-driven tower clocks with verge escapements and foliot balances marked the dawn of mechanical timekeeping.
Today, the core concept of mechanical movements remains unchanged from its original conception. It involves an intricate arrangement of gears, springs, and an escapement powered by a wound mainspring. This precision engineering allows for smooth operation and precise timekeeping.
Manual watch movements require the wearer to wind the crown periodically. Automatic watch movements, on the other hand, utilise the wearer's movements to keep the mainspring wound, offering a convenient everyday solution.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava, with its ultra-thin manual movement, exemplifies the elegance of traditional watchmaking. On the other hand, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, with its self-winding mechanism epitomises practicality and durability.
Whether manual or automatic, a mechanical movement imbues a luxury watch with a soul, a testament to human ingenuity and a treasured heirloom for generations to come
Luxury watches often boast 'complications,' intricate mechanisms that add layers of sophistication, style and utility. Here, we explore some of the most fascinating complications created by the best luxury watch brands.
Unlike their battery-powered quartz counterparts, luxury watches have a beating heart – the mechanical movement. First created in the 14th century, large, weight-driven tower clocks with verge escapements and foliot balances marked the dawn of mechanical timekeeping.
Today, the core concept of mechanical movements remains unchanged from its original conception. It involves an intricate arrangement of gears, springs, and an escapement powered by a wound mainspring. This precision engineering allows for smooth operation and precise timekeeping.
Manual watch movements require the wearer to wind the crown periodically. Automatic watch movements, on the other hand, utilise the wearer's movements to keep the mainspring wound, offering a convenient everyday solution.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava, with its ultra-thin manual movement, exemplifies the elegance of traditional watchmaking. On the other hand, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, with its self-winding mechanism epitomises practicality and durability.
Whether manual or automatic, a mechanical movement imbues a luxury watch with a soul, a testament to human ingenuity and a treasured heirloom for generations to come
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
Contents insurance is essential for anyone who owns valuable items, as it helps protect you should a potential loss occur in your.
Ut enim ad minim veniam, quis nostrud exercitation ullamco laboris nisi ut aliquip ex ea commodo consequat. Duis aute irure dolor in
Excepteur sint occaecat cupidatat non proident, sunt in culpa qui officia deserunt mollit anim id est laborum voluptate velit esse.
Luxury watches often boast 'complications,' intricate mechanisms that add layers of sophistication, style and utility. Here, we explore some of the most fascinating complications created by the best luxury watch brands.
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
Peace of Mind: An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
“Knowing your engagement ring is insured brings peace of mind. Accidents can happen, and insurance coverage alleviates the worry and stress of potential loss or damage.”
Unlike their battery-powered quartz counterparts, luxury watches have a beating heart – the mechanical movement. First created in the 14th century, large, weight-driven tower clocks with verge escapements and foliot balances marked the dawn of mechanical timekeeping.
Today, the core concept of mechanical movements remains unchanged from its original conception. It involves an intricate arrangement of gears, springs, and an escapement powered by a wound mainspring. This precision engineering allows for smooth operation and precise timekeeping.
Manual watch movements require the wearer to wind the crown periodically. Automatic watch movements, on the other hand, utilise the wearer's movements to keep the mainspring wound, offering a convenient everyday solution.
The Patek Philippe Calatrava, with its ultra-thin manual movement, exemplifies the elegance of traditional watchmaking. On the other hand, the Rolex Oyster Perpetual, with its self-winding mechanism epitomises practicality and durability.
Whether manual or automatic, a mechanical movement imbues a luxury watch with a soul, a testament to human ingenuity and a treasured heirloom for generations to come
Diamond shapes can vary in price due to popularity and demand. Round brilliants, for example, tend to be more expensive than other shapes due to their high demand. If budget is a concern, consider alternative shapes or prioritise other aspects, such as cut quality, over the shape itself.
Amet minim mollit non deserunt ullamco est sit aliqua dolor do amet sint. Velit officia consequat duis enim velit mollit. Exercitation veniam consequat sunt nostrud amet. Amet minim mollit non deserunt ullamco est sit aliqua dolor do amet sint. Velit officia consequat duis enim velit mollit. Exercitation veniam consequat sunt nostrud amet.Amet minim mollit non deserunt ullamco est sit aliqua dolor do amet sint. Velit officia consequat duis enim velit mollit. Exercitation veniam consequat sunt nostrud amet.Amet minim mollit non deserunt ullamco est sit aliqua dolor do amet sint. Velit officia consequat duis enim velit mollit. Exercitation veniam consequat sunt nostrud amet.
Amet minim mollit non deserunt ullamco est sit aliqua dolor do amet sint. Velit officia consequat duis enim velit mollit. Exercitation veniam consequat sunt nostrud amet.
Amet minim mollit non deserunt ullamco est sit aliqua dolor do amet sint. Velit officia consequat duis enim velit mollit. Exercitation veniam consequat sunt nostrud amet.
Contents insurance covers the items within your home in case they are damaged, lost or stolen. This can include furniture, electronics, clothing and other personal. Contents insurance is essential for anyone who owns valuable items, as it helps protect you should a potential loss occur in your.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised engagement ring insurance provides financial protection in the event of loss, theft or damage by ensuring you can recover the ring's monetary value or repair or replace.
An engagement ring is a significant financial and sentimental investment. Specialised.
Luxury watches often boast 'complications,' intricate mechanisms that add layers of sophistication, style and utility. Here, we explore some of the most fascinating complications created by the best luxury watch brands.
Contents insurance covers the items within your home in case they are damaged, lost or stolen. This can include furniture, electronics, clothing and other personal. Contents insurance is essential for anyone who owns valuable items, as it helps protect you should a potential loss occur in your.
To get an accurate insurance quote, please provide the amount from your purchase receipt.
Don't have the receipt?
If you don't have the receipt, you can provide the most recent valuation amount instead.
Visit your favourite jeweller, and you can feast your eyes on stunning .
A natural diamond is as rich in history as it is in beauty. From the moment the .
Nestled deep in the Earth, diamonds rest for millions of years before making .