For centuries, diamonds have elicited awestruck sighs and evoked unparalleled devotion from their many admirers. Maybe that is why the gift of a diamond solitaire is so apt when exchanging vows of love and affection. Timeless, beautiful, the stuff of dreams, a diamond epitomizes strength, endurance and beauty all bundled into one neat little package. With their stunning allure, diamonds inspire song lyrics, captivate fortune-seekers and tie lives irrevocably together. But what makes diamonds continue to hold the top spot in terms of the gemstone fan chart? How do they remain the reigning star of the red carpet and a top-seller in the jewelry industry? It's all about the cut!

What are ideal cut diamonds?

It's complicated--no really, it is! A diamond's clarity, carat size, coloring and cut all influence market value. But cut, in terms of grading a diamond's worth is probably one of the most difficult to discern. The importance and level of skill in which a cutter shapes the diamond is pivotal in showing off a diamond to its best advantage. Ideal cut diamonds are diamonds that play to a diamond's strengths. If the facets are cut and arranged on the diamond stone skillfully the diamond will sparkle all the more. If the cutting of the diamond is not handled properly, it can lose value and its potential for brilliance.

Diamond Owner Checklist

Do you own a diamond jewelry piece that seems to twinkle in the light? Ideally, diamonds that encapsulate color and sparkle within their depths are worth much more than a pretty penny. Brilliant diamond cuts possess 58 facets that catch the light at exactly the right angle. Below is a quick go-to guide to determine if you have ideal cut diamonds in your jewelry collection.

Making the Grade:

• Ideal cut diamonds are graded by the external or internal white light they reflect. This is also referred to as brilliance. 
• Diamonds are judged by the amount of white light shown within (also known as fire) that is or isn't found throughout the colors of the rainbow.
• Scintillation is a term used to grade the play of light and dark that is present in the diamond's reflection.

For more info on ideal cut diamonds, visit Arizona's own Ralph Mueller & Associates located in the Phoenix area, and find out if your diamonds are a cut above the rest!