Diamond Symmetry

What is Diamond Symmetry?

How Important is Diamond Symmetry?

What is a diamond’s symmetry? How important is it?

The symmetry of a diamond is how even and exact the diamonds shape and facet arrangement has been cut. If the facets are uneven or misshapen, if the table is off center or if the shape is uneven, a wavy girdle, an off center culet, among other examples, the symmetry is a lower grade and the appearance of the diamond is affected.

Most symmetry issues will not be detectable with the naked eye. Generally, the better the symmetry, the more valuable the stone. At a certain point though, paying more for any higher symmetry becomes a waste of money, as the symmetry above certain grades is not possible to be appreciated.

Symmetry is more of an issue when the diamond is a lower, clearer, color. When the diamond has less clarity, you usually won’t be able to see inside the diamond as well and then the symmetry makes less of a difference, affecting the appearance of the diamond less.

Diamond Symmetry Ratings

The GIA rates symmetry with ratings ranging from Extremely Poor to Excellent. Most of these rating levels are levels you should not even consider buying, either because the diamond is too por quality or bcause the symmetry is too high and the extra cost involved is a waste. You will be fine with a symmetry rating of Good, Very Good or Excellent, though the difference between these is impossible to differentiate with your naked eye, so even just a Good is all you need for a great diamond buy.

Oftentimes, a diamonds symmetry might be off, and it was cut and polished intentionally that way. An expert cutter might cut the diamond misaligned intentionally, as he might be trying to avoid inclusions, and he might be trying to cut the diamond in a way to maximize the weight, for example to attain a diamond that surpasses a specific weight goal, such as a full 1.00 Carat. The cutter might, as well, adjust the shape or thickness of the girdle for similar purposes.

Again, don’t go any lower than a Symmetry rating of “Good”, and don’t go higher than “Excellent”, and even “Excellent” is not necessary. Save your money, go with “Good” and get your stone a little bit bigger or better clarity for the extra money.

Questions? Don’t understand something someone told you about diamonds? Not sure if you should really buy that diamond? Email me at diamonds@clarityofdiamonds.com and ask!

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