Questions on Cut

1. If we know certain dimension are preferable why does the diamond cutter vary from this model?
2. Two diamonds, appear similar in size, color, clarity and cut, why is one diamond more than the other?
3. Why is it so difficult to find a diamond that weighs just under a carat?

If we know certain dimension are preferable why do  diamond cutters vary from these models?

Diamonds are often cut to retain weight.  An comparison with meat is a good one.   If a butcher could get away with leaving excess fat on meat, they would likely do so.  Why cut off fat and throw it away if you can sell it for the same price as the meat? 

Diamond cutters know the consumer has a fixation on diamond weight. In many instances it is easier to sell a diamond that weighs more than a smaller diamond cut to better proportions.  If the consumer is shopping by weight and price alone  they will find someone who will sell them a poorly cut stone at a perceived but fictitious savings. 

Retailers selling these stones will often gloss over the issue of cut.  This amounts to shopping by the 3 C's (carat-weight, color, clarity).   If you fall into this trap you could easily end up with worst cut diamond not the best value.    

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Two diamonds, appear similar in size, color, clarity and cut, why is one diamond more than the other?

This is a follow on to the question above.  In the wholesale market you will often find what appear to be identical diamonds (Size, Color and Clarity) listed by the same source for different prices.  In the wholesale market cut has a significant impact on price.  In the retail market a consumer may incorrectly assume the lower priced stone is a bargain as opposed to just being of an inferior cut.      

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Why is it so difficult to find a diamond that weighs just under a carat?

I was in Antwerp, Belgium and this very question was asked of a diamond dealer .   His response was, "Why cut a diamond that weighs 0.95 carats to 0.99 carats when you could make the same stone a full carat?"  In fact, the cutter who commonly fashions diamonds that weigh just short of a carat would likely get fired. 

There are certain psychological points associated with diamond weight (0.25 CTS., 0.50 CTS., 0.75 CTS., 1.00 CTS., 2.0 CTS.).    Whenever your are close to one of these weights the cutter may compromise on proportions to insure the diamond weighs at least that threshold amount. 

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