The journey to finding the perfect diamond begins with understanding its anatomy. Whether you’re shopping for a diamond engagement ring or choosing a wedding band to match engagement ring options, it’s understandable if one will get easily distracted by a diamond’s cut, clarity, color, and weight. But it’s important to know that there are other factors that should be taken into consideration as well.
In this guide, we’ll explore the major parts of a quality diamond from top to bottom, and determine how each part plays a role in a diamond’s quality and level of brilliance. By knowing the anatomy of this stone, you’ll be more than equipped to make a confident and informed decision when selecting your diamond solitaire engagement ring.
5 Parts of a Diamond
Table
The topmost part of a diamond is called a table, which can be seen when the stone is viewed face up. It’s an essential part of your diamond, because it allows the light to enter the stone and refracts it to the facets on the top and sides. A good table size is all about balance – it should be large enough to allow the light to come through, but not too large that it will not refract the light into the crown.
Crown
Just beneath the table lies the crown, the upper part of your diamond that sits elegantly above the prongs. An ideal crown angle should be able to disperse the maximum light to enhance the diamond’s fire.
Girdle
Think of the girdle as the diamond’s middle belt that separates the crown from the pavilion. We don’t want this belt to be too thin because it will compromise the diamond’s durability, and cause chips and cracks to happen. On the other hand, a girdle that’s too thick adds unnecessary weight, making your diamond appear smaller than it actually is.
Pavilion
If the crown is the diamond’s upper half, then the pavilion is its lower counterpart. It’s the longest section, stretching from the girdle down to the culet. This area is crucial for light reflection and overall diamond symmetry.
Culet
At the very bottom of your diamond sits the culet, a small facet that acts as a protective shield against chipping and abrasions. It may be tiny, but it plays a big role in preserving your diamond’s integrity for years to come.
Understanding something as technical as the anatomy of a diamond is about making smart choices when it comes to diamond shopping. By knowing each diamond part, you’ll gain valuable insight into what makes a diamond truly exceptional.
So the next time you find yourself shopping for that special sparkler, you’ll be able to make the right decision on which diamond to pick. Whether it’s an engagement diamond ring, a stunning diamond necklace, or a pair of elegant diamond earrings, knowing the anatomy of a diamond ensures that every piece you choose is as radiant and exquisite as you deserve.
