Diamond Cut: Good vs Very Good – Understanding the Difference

Diamond Cut

When shopping for a diamond, one of the most important factors to consider is its cut. The cut of a diamond influences how it reflects light, which impacts its brilliance, sparkle, and overall visual appeal. In the world of diamonds, the cut quality is graded on a scale ranging from Poor to Excellent, with “Good” and “Very Good” being two of the most common grades that buyers encounter. But what sets these two grades apart? In this article, we’ll dive into the key differences between a diamond cut good vs very good diamond cut and why it matters for your purchase.

What is Diamond Cut?

Before comparing the two grades, let’s first clarify what “cut” means in the context of diamonds. The cut refers to how well a diamond has been shaped and faceted by the jeweler. Unlike color or clarity, which are natural characteristics of the diamond, the cut is a result of human craftsmanship. The diamond’s cut impacts how light interacts with it and directly affects its brilliance and sparkle.

The quality of a diamond cut is determined by several factors, including:

  1. Proportions – The diamond’s symmetry and the angles at which the facets are set.
  2. Polish – The smoothness of the diamond’s surface.
  3. Symmetry – The alignment of the facets and how well they reflect light.

Diamond Cut Grading Scale

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses a five-tier grading scale for diamond cuts:

  • Excellent
  • Very Good
  • Good
  • Fair
  • Poor

These grades help customers understand how well a diamond has been cut, which impacts its visual appeal.

Good Cut Diamonds

A “Good” cut diamond is one that is crafted with a reasonable level of symmetry, proportion, and polish. Although it is not the highest grade, it still displays a decent amount of sparkle and brilliance. In general, a “Good” cut diamond may have slight discrepancies in the symmetry or proportions of its facets that cause some light leakage, meaning it may not reflect as much light as higher-quality diamonds.

Key Characteristics of a Good Cut Diamond:

  • Brilliance: While still sparkly, the brilliance may not be as intense as a Very Good or Excellent cut.
  • Light Performance: Some light may escape from the diamond due to less precise proportions.
  • Cost: These diamonds are typically more affordable than Very Good or Excellent diamonds, making them an appealing option for budget-conscious buyers.

Very Good Cut Diamonds

A “Very Good” cut diamond, on the other hand, exhibits superior craftsmanship. It is cut with better proportions, symmetry, and polish, allowing it to reflect more light than a “Good” cut diamond. As a result, a “Very Good” cut diamond generally has better sparkle and brilliance. Light performance is significantly enhanced compared to a “Good” cut diamond, lab diamonds, and you will notice more fire (the dispersion of light into colors) and scintillation (the flashes of light and dark that occur as the diamond moves).

Key Characteristics of a Very Good Cut Diamond:

  • Brilliance: High level of brilliance and sparkle, though still a step below the “Excellent” grade.
  • Light Performance: Excellent light return, with minimal light leakage.
  • Cost: While more expensive than a “Good” cut, it is usually less costly than an Excellent cut diamond, offering great value for its quality.

The Key Differences

  1. Brilliance and Sparkle:
    • “Very Good” cut diamonds reflect light more efficiently, resulting in more brilliance and sparkle compared to “Good” cut diamonds.
    • A “Good” cut diamond may have areas where light escapes, reducing its overall visual appeal.
  2. Craftsmanship:
    • The craftsmanship of a “Very Good” cut is typically more precise than that of a “Good” cut diamond, with more attention paid to proportions, symmetry, and polish.
    • “Good” cut diamonds may have minor inconsistencies in these aspects, but they are still well-made.
  3. Price:
    • “Very Good” cut diamonds generally come at a higher price than “Good” cut diamonds because of the improved light performance and overall aesthetic quality.
    • A “Good” cut diamond is often the more budget-friendly option but may not offer the same visual impact.

Which Should You Choose?

The choice between a “Good” and “Very Good” cut diamond largely depends on your personal preferences and budget. If you are looking for a diamond that offers excellent brilliance and light performance but don’t want to break the bank, a “Very Good” cut diamond is an excellent choice. It strikes a balance between quality and value.

On the other hand, if you are more budget-conscious and are willing to compromise slightly on the intensity of sparkle, a “Good” cut diamond can still be a great option. Keep in mind that the cut has the most significant impact on a diamond’s overall appearance, so a “Good” cut diamond will still look beautiful, but it may not have the same fire and brilliance as a “Very Good” cut.

Conclusion

The decision between a “Good” and “Very Good” cut diamond comes down to what you value most—brilliance, budget, or the perfect balance of both. While a “Very Good” cut will give you more sparkle and light performance, a “Good” cut can still offer a stunning diamond at a more affordable price. No matter which you choose, understanding the difference between these two grades will help you make an informed decision and find a diamond that meets your expectations.