Cutting and proportioning in colored stones are important for two main reasons. Firstly they affect the depth of color seen in the stone and secondarily they affect the liveliness projected by the stone.
Color and cutting are the two most important criteria to determine the beauty of a colored stone. Carat weight must be factored. If a higher carat weight, the price of the gemstone will increase per carat. If, the colored stone is of good quality material, and good cut it will enhance the beauty of the gem to its fullest extent. If the same material is cut poorly, its natural beauty will be lessened, causing it dark, too light, or even “dead”.
When examining a colored stone that looks lively to the eyes, has good color ie,not too dark and not too pale, it can be assumed that it is a reasonably good cut stone. If the gemstone color is poor, or if it lacks liveliness, it must be examined for proper cut. If it has been cut properly, it can be assumed that the basic material of the stone is poor. If the cut is poor, the material may be good and perhaps be re cut into a beautiful gem.
Evaluating the cut of the gemstone
While gemstones are deeply cut in an effort to get the heaviest stone possible. In shallow cut pastel or light colored gemstones, such as aquamarine, amethyst, or topaz, any accumulation of the dirt or grease on the back of the stone will quickly diminish the color and the brilliance of the stone. This often happens with a ring worn daily and everyday subjected to oil and grease.
When evaluating the cut of the colored gemstone, always pay attention to its depth and the impact of the depth on the basic body color and overall liveliness and brilliance of the stone.