Diamond Anatomy

Table

• The table is the top, horizontal facet of a diamond, and is usually what most people notice first. It has a flat surface area and resembles a table top.

• It is the largest facet of a diamond, regardless of the diamonds shape.

• The table is an essential part of a diamond as light enters and exits through the table, determining its brilliance.

Crown

• Below the table is the crown. The crown is the upper portion of the diamond, from the top edge of the girdle to the table.

• If you view a diamond from the side, you will be able to see various types of facets that comprise the crown.

• The crown has four different diamond facets; the table, star facets, bezel facets and upper half facets.

• The crown can affect both the dispersion and brightness of a diamond.

Girdle

• The girdle is the middle portion of a diamond, a narrow section separating the crown from the pavilion, and functions as the diamond’s setting edge.

• The girdle thickness is described as a range from its thinnest to thickest areas.

• A diamonds girdle can vary in thickness and are graded accordingly, from very thin to extremely thick.

• The girdle can be polished, faceted or left rough.

Pavilion

• The pavilion is the lower portion of a diamond from the bottom edge of the girdle to the culet.

• A pavilion depth that’s too shallow or too deep will allow light to escape from the side or bottom of the stone.

• The ideal pavilion will bounce light from one side to the other sending it back through the table, for that awe-inspiring brilliance we all love.

• For the pavilion, depth, facets, and cut will all determine if your diamond has been perfectly crafted.

Culet

• The culet is located at the bottom of a diamond, where the pavilion facets taper into a sharp point.

• Diamond culets are graded from None (or pointed), up to Extremely Large.

• When a diamonds culet is graded as 'None', it means it has a perfectly pointed tip. This can also be referred to as a pointed culet.

• A large culet can usually be seen when looking at a diamond from above. Usually appearing like a little dark circle.

• Diamonds without a culet or very small, will have no such visible mark.

Speak To A Diamond Expert

Book a diamond consultation at our Chester Showroom and sit down for a one-to-one appointment with a diamond expert. 

During your appointment you will receive expert advice and guidance and will be able to closely examine diamonds that you have chosen from our extensive online diamond inventory. You will be able to learn what it is that sets individual diamonds apart and which one is most suitable for your unique engagement ring or fine piece of jewellery. 

There's no obligation to buy and we can help you select the diamonds from our list so that when you turn up, you have suitable diamonds in front of you.

Book An Appointment