What diamond cuts followed the shape of the octahedral diamond rough?

• A. The point cut and table cut followed the shape of the octahedral rough.
• B. The brilliant cut and step cut.
• C. The old European cut.
• D. The rose cut.

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is how the natural crystal form of a diamond guides cutting decisions. Diamonds crystallize in a cubic lattice, and many rough stones show an octahedral shape with eight triangular faces. To maximize yield and work with those natural planes, historic cutters often favored cuts that trace the octahedral geometry rather than impose a completely new form.

The rose cut fits this approach. It is a shallow, domed crown made of many small facets arranged around a central apex, and it sits on a flat or minimally faceted base. This layout aligns with the octahedral planes, letting the cutter preserve more of the rough weight while following the stone’s natural geometry. The result is a rounded, glowing appearance rather than the sharp, highly faceted brilliance of modern cuts.

Other cuts pursue different optical goals and do not specifically follow the octahedral planes. The brilliant cut optimizes light return through a precise, complex arrangement of facets for maximum brilliance. The step cut uses broad horizontal facets for a lantern-like look. The old European cut is a vintage deep cut with a different silhouette and light performance. The table or point-focused designs don’t reflect the octahedral planes in the same way.