Marking the Diamond
Diamonds formed billions of years ago in the Earth's mantle, more than 150kms below the surface. Carbon subjected to very high pressure and temperature crystallized to form diamonds.
A rough diamond first has to be very carefully studied to assess how it should be cut in order to yield its maximum potential beauty.
The shape of the rough crystal and the position of any inclusions that may be present are defining factors in this stage of the process.
Often a small "window is polished for the diamond marker to better see into the diamond.
Marking the diamond with Indian ink is the traditional way to guide the other craftsman who follow.
Sawing the Diamond
The next stage of the process involves sawing the diamond into two, normally unequal parts - with one major diamond or more important diamond.
The Indian ink serves as a road map for the craftsmen.
The diamond-studded blade, rotating at extremely high speeds then saws the diamond in two.
Diamonds have sensitive pressure points and knots which if not properly identified, could result in the diamond shattering during the sawing process.
Bruting the Diamond
This stage of the cutting process is when the natural shape of the octahedron is fashioned into a round circumference.
The rounded edge of the diamond or its "girdle" is shaped by using another diamond to carefully remove each diamond's four cutting points.
Diamond Polishing
The rounded diamond is then set into a "tang" to secure it for the next stage of the process, in which 8 primary facets are polished into the diamond.
The alignment and symmetry of these facets will play an important role in the optical efficiency of your diamond - it's sparkle.
Crossworking and Brillandeering
The final cuts require the most experienced hands on out team. In this department we have craftsmen who have been cutting diamonds for over 25 years.
The initial facets are refined so that the diamonds emerge with 57 facets, all carefully aligned to create a dazzling dispersion of light, the hallmark of our work.
The surface of a diamond is then carefully polished to reveal a perfect mirror-like finish to complete the effect.
