Diamond anatomy is the perfect guide to better understanding a diamond and how it is graded. The three most important physical components that determine a diamonds grade are the diameter, the table and the depth.

Here’s a simple guide to understanding the details of the diamond anatomy, including the definitions of the key components.

 

Diameter

This is the width of diamond, measured from one end of the girdle to the other.

 

Table

This is the flat surface at the top of the diamond; it is usually the largest facet of the stone.

 

Crown

This refers to the upper part of a diamond, the section extending from the girdle to the table. 

 

Girdle

This is the intersection between the crown and pavilion of a diamond; it defines the perimeter of the diamond. Generally the girdle is given minor consideration, however we do recommend avoiding girdles that are extremely thin as they make the diamond more vulnerable to chipping.

It is also important to avoid purchasing diamonds with a thick girdle, as this puts too much weight on the centre of the diamond, causing it to look smaller that similarly sized diamonds.

 

Pavilion

This refers to the lower part of the diamond, the section extending from the girdle down to the culet. 

 

Culet

This is the tiny tip at the bottom of the diamond’s pavilion; it is usually the smallest facet on a diamond. Ideally, you’re looking for a cult that is not visible to the unaided eye.

 

Depth

This is the total height of a diamond, measured in millimetres from the culet to the table of a diamond.

 

** Remember, while understanding the diamonds anatomy can be helpful, it is easier to use the diamonds cut grade as a guide when purchasing diamonds. In most cases the diamond cut grade is based on the analysis of each diamonds anatomy! **