Design is defined as what in diamond evaluation?

• A. The diamond's weight and carat
• B. The color grade
• C. The diamond's physical shape, including its proportions and durability, determined by decisions made during the fashioning process.
• D. The setting required to mount

Answer: (C)

Design refers to the diamond’s physical form—the shape produced by cutting and the proportions that define its silhouette and how durable it will be. The cutter’s decisions during the fashioning process determine whether the gem ends up round, princess, emerald, etc., and how table width, crown height, pavilion depth, girdle thickness, and facet arrangement come together to balance brilliance with durability. This focus on shape and fabrication distinguishes design from weight (carat), color (color grade), or the mounting (setting).