Cut refers to the angles and proportions a skilled craftsman creates in transforming a rough diamond into a polished stone. It is the only one of the 4Cs that is not naturally created when the diamond is in the earth.

Diamond cutting requires great skill. The craftsman polishes tiny surfaces (facets) into the rough diamond to create the crown, culet, table, girdle and pavilion. He will often have to cut away more than half of the rough diamond.

"Cut is the only one of the 4Cs not determined by nature"

A well-proportioned diamond will make good use of light, allowing it to be dispersed and reflected from one facet to another, releasing its brilliance, fire and beauty.

If a diamond is cut too deep or too shallow, light escapes through the side or the bottom and the display will be less brilliant. A well-cut diamond is more valuable than a poorly cut stone of the same weight, clarity and colour.