Choosing Your Diamond

The art of diamond cutting has been refined to the extent that one classically cut shape, the ‘round brilliant’, accounts for an estimated 75% of all diamond sales. When you look at its exquisite shape it is easy to see why. Yet in recent times modern technology has led to the creation of several patented new shapes that claim to reflect even more light than traditional cut diamonds and these ‘fancy cuts’ as they are called are becoming increasingly popular.

We believe the best way choose a diamond is to examine it through a loupe or magnifying glass, so that you can appreciate its natural beauty first hand. Which is why at Solid Gold we offer our online clients a no fuss 14 Day Online Money Back Guarantee, so even if you are buying over the Internet without being able to visit our store you can still have the reassurance of seeing your diamond, secure in the knowledge that if you are not happy with it for any reason it can be returned.

We are confident you won’t find a better diamond at a better price than at Solid Gold and if the stone you buy from us isn’t everything we say it is and more, we will refund your payment in full.

Traditional Cuts...

Round Brilliant Diamond

This traditional shape sets the standard for diamond cuts. Its classic 58-facet cut is divided by its crown (top), girdle (widest part) and pavilion (base) to a precisely calibrated formula that is designed to achieve the maximum fire and brilliance.

Oval Diamond

A symmetrical design sometimes chosen by petite women with short fingers, because it has the flattering effect of adding to the length of the hand.

Marquise Diamond

An elongated shape reportedly commissioned by the Sun King, Louis IV and inspired by the smile of the Marquise de Pompador to present a regal diamond that is magnificent either as a solitaire or in harmony with smaller diamonds.

Pear Shaped Diamond

A shining teardrop that is best used to create an attractive pendant, stunning earrings or to complement the hand of a petite woman.

Heart Shaped Diamond

This romantic symbol is created from a pear-shaped diamond with a cleft at the top and the skill of the diamond cutter determines the beauty of the stone. Values can vary depending on the even nature of the shape and the clarity of the outline.

Emerald Cut Diamond

Known as a ‘step cut’ because it resembles a stair shape, the broad flat planes of the Emerald Cut can highlight any flaws, consequently it is important to choose a stone of superior clarity and colour.

Princess Cut Diamond

This is a square or rectangular cut that requires a greater depth in order to maximise the potential brilliance of the stone. It tends to be used either as a solitaire or with triangular stones at its side to add more reflective light.

Fancy Cuts...

Tycoon Cut Diamond™

Internationally recognised for its ability to reflect up to 30% more light, the Tycoon Cut™ is one of the most stunning advances in diamond cutting to occur in the past decade. When placed side by side against a traditional cut diamond of similar quality, even an inexperienced eye can usually see the added sparkle in the stone.

Flanders Brilliant Cut Diamond™

Developed in the city of Antwerp, one of the world’s largest centres of excellence for diamonds, the Flanders Brilliant Cut™ is the only diamond cut endorsed by Royalty. Its shape incorporates the elegance of the Round Brilliant Cut with additional facets to create a diamond of exceptional brilliance.

The 88 Cut Diamond™

The perfect symmetry of this shape realises a long held diamond-cutting dream to create a shape with an increased number of facets whilst retaining the beauty of a balanced table size. Without this inherent equilibrium in the design new diamonds cuts can create a ‘disco-ball’ effect that actually diminishes the stone’s ability to reflect light rather than enhancing it. The 88 Cut™ is rare in that it is one of the new-breed of diamond cuts that delivers on its promise.

Tycoon Cut™, Flanders Brilliant™ and 88 Cut™ Diamonds are all exclusive to Solid Gold in Western Australia.

Definition of Terms

Diameter: The width of a diamond is measured through the girdle.
Table: This is the large, flat top facet of a diamond.
Crown: The upper portion of a cut gemstone, above the girdle.
Girdle: The narrow rim of a diamond separating the crown from the pavilion, it is the largest diameter to any part of the stone.
Pavilion: The lower portion of the diamond, below the girdle, sometimes referred to as the base.
Culet: The tiny facet on the bottom of the pavilion.
Depth: The height of a gemstone, from the culet to the table.