Diamond is a gemstone formed by cutting a raw diamond. Diamonds are one of the best-known and most sought-after gems, and they have been used as decorative items since ancient times.
Diamonds in modern brilliant cut.
The Hope Diamond. Its deep blue coloration is caused by trace amounts of boron in the diamond.
Fleetwood Rawstone's "Red Cap Party" of prospectors on Colesberg Kopje
The Big Hole.
A diamond cut is a style or design guide used when shaping a diamond for polishing such as the brilliant cut. Cut refers to shape, and also the symmetry, proportioning and polish of a diamond. The cut of a diamond greatly affects a diamond's brilliance—a poorly-cut diamond is less luminous.
Fancy cuts
Round brilliant, top view Oval brilliant, top view Rose cut, top view Round brilliant, side view Cushion brilliant, top view Rose cut, side view Step cut, octagon Pear brilliant, top view Step cut, oblong High cabochon, side view Lentil-shaped, side view Cabochon, side view
Image: PC Diamond Anatomy B W