How Are Diamonds Cut?

The Art and Science of Diamond Cutting

Diamonds may be formed by nature, but their brilliance is unlocked by human skill. A diamond’s sparkle, fire, and overall beauty depend almost entirely on how it is cut. Even the rarest stone will look dull if cut poorly, while a well-cut diamond can outshine larger stones of higher carat weight.

a rough diamond held between two fingers

At MDT DESIGN, every diamond we hand-select is assessed for its cut quality to ensure it delivers the brilliance, symmetry, and life that only expert craftsmanship can achieve.

From Rough to Radiant

When a diamond is mined, it begins as a rough crystal with little sparkle. The transformation into a brilliant gem involves several precise stages:

  1. Planning
    Advanced technology is used to study the rough diamond, identifying inclusions and determining the best way to cut the stone for maximum beauty and minimal waste.
  2. Cleaving or Sawing
    The rough crystal is split into smaller pieces using lasers or mechanical tools. This stage ensures each segment can be shaped into a usable gemstone.
  3. Bruting (Shaping)
    The diamond is rounded into its basic shape – for example, a round brilliant, oval, or princess cut.
  4. Faceting
    Skilled cutters add facets, the tiny flat surfaces that reflect light. The precision of the angles and symmetry determines how much the diamond sparkles.
  5. Polishing
    Each facet is polished to a mirror-like finish, unlocking the stone’s fire and brilliance.
  6. Inspection
    Every finished diamond is carefully inspected for cut quality, symmetry, and polish before it is ready to be set.
A rough diamond in its natural habitat

The Importance of Cut

Of the 4Cs (cut, colour, clarity, carat), cut is the most critical factor in a diamond’s beauty.

  • A well-cut diamond reflects light internally and externally, creating exceptional brilliance.
  • Poorly cut diamonds, even with high clarity or carat, can appear lifeless or dull.
  • Proportions, symmetry, and polish all combine to determine a diamond’s cut grade.

At MDT DESIGN, we reject diamonds that may score well on paper but lack sparkle in person. Every stone we select must perform beautifully under real-life conditions.

Popular Diamond Cuts

Different cutting styles highlight different characteristics of the diamond:

  • Round Brilliant – 57–58 facets, unmatched sparkle, the most popular cut.
  • Princess Cut – Square with sharp corners, modern and brilliant.
  • Emerald Cut – Long, rectangular facets that emphasise clarity and elegance.
  • Oval, Pear, and Marquise – Elongated shapes that maximise spread and create graceful silhouettes.
  • Cushion Cut – Rounded edges and large facets for a romantic, vintage look.

Your choice of cut should reflect both your partner’s style and the design of the ring.

Diamond shapes guide showing round, princess, emerald, marquise, pear, heart, oval and trillion cut diamonds for engagement rings.

Why MDT DESIGN Diamonds Shine Brighter

  • Expertly selected: Each stone is individually inspected by our diamond experts, not just purchased based on certificates.
  • Handmade settings: Our Melbourne jewellers craft every ring by hand, ensuring the cut of your diamond is showcased to its fullest brilliance.
  • Transparent guidance: We explain cut quality in clear terms, showing you stones side by side so you can see the difference with your own eyes.

Visit MDT DESIGN in Melbourne

If you want to understand how diamonds are cut – and how cut quality impacts their beauty -visit our Collins Street boutique. Our award-winning jewellers will guide you through the process, helping you select a diamond that sparkles with life.

For more information about the 4 c’s of diamond grading or to talk to one of our designers, contact us today.