When you think of a diamond, the image that likely comes to mind is of a sparkling, brilliant gemstone. This iconic representation, commonly associated with the round cut diamond, is no coincidence. Round cut diamonds are widely considered the epitome of luxury and brilliance. However, they also tend to be the most expensive.
Here are four reasons why round cut diamonds are priced higher than other shapes.
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The process of cutting a round cut diamond requires removing a large portion of the rough stone. Up to 60% of the original rough diamond is lost to achieve the precise shape and proportions of a round cut. This is significantly higher than other diamond shapes like the princess cut, which only loses about 20-30%. The waste generated during this process makes the round cut inherently more expensive, as the remaining stone must compensate for the material lost.
Cutting a diamond into a round shape requires expert craftsmanship and precision. This is not a simple process, even with advanced laser-cutting technology. The round cut has 57 facets (or 58 if a culet is added), which means that each of these small surfaces must be carefully shaped to maximize light reflection. The precise angles required to create a brilliant cut are critical to achieving the sparkle that round diamonds are known for. The skill and labor involved further elevate the cost of round cut diamonds.
GIA grades round cuts into several cut grades, including (in descending order):
Excellent cut: A perfect round cut is the best cut classification. The stone cut along these lines will possess enormous sparkle and brilliance. The dance of light as it bounces off the facets is impeccable, and there is zero light leakage as it passes through the diamond.
Very Good cut: Tiny light sips from the round diamonds designated the very good cut grade. They have slightly lower fire and sparkle when compared to the excellent cut round stones. A very good round cut is handy when you want to leave more room for color and clarity in your diamond budget.
Good: The round cut is still expensive when cut to good proportions. Round diamonds in this cut grade fly off the shelf the most (around 25 percent of round diamond sales). The good round cut helps to bridge the gap between having the most diamond sparkle and not having to break your wallet.
Poor cut: No cutter in their right mind will go to the length of developing a poor cut round stone. Diamond production is expensive and time-consuming. More importantly, it is a well-respected craft. Unless you are dealing with a quack, you will hardly see a poor cut stone, let alone a poor round cut.
Poorly cut stones have the highest light leakage and an out-of-place brilliance due to overly deep or shallow cut proportions.
The round cut is specifically designed to maximize light performance, making it one of the most brilliant diamond shapes. The cut parameters of a round diamond are meticulously planned to ensure optimal light reflection and refraction. As a result, round cut diamonds produce more sparkle, fire, and brilliance than any other shape. This exceptional light performance is a key reason why round cut diamonds command higher prices.
Round cut diamonds are by far the most popular diamond shape, comprising 70-75% of the diamonds sold for engagement rings. This high demand leads to greater competition for gem-quality rough stones, which drives up prices. Additionally, retailers know that round diamonds tend to sell faster than other cuts, both loose and in settings. The constant demand for round cut diamonds ensures they remain more expensive compared to other shapes like the cushion or oval cuts.
Round cut diamonds are more expensive because they require significant material loss, expert craftsmanship, offer superior light performance, and enjoy high market demand. If you are looking for a diamond with unmatched sparkle and brilliance, the round cut is the clear choice. Though pricier, its timeless appeal and superior quality make it a popular option for those wanting to make a lasting statement.