Which cutting style combines step-cut and brilliant-cut facets?

• A. Mixed Cut
• B. Shape
• C. Step Cut
• D. Pavilion Bulge

Answer: (A)

Combining step-cut and brilliant-cut facets is described by the term mixed cut. A mixed cut blends two different facet geometries within the same diamond: part of the stone uses the orderly, rectangular facets of a step-cut, while another part uses the many small, scintillating facets of a brilliant cut. In practice, you’ll often see a pavilion with step-cut facets and a crown with brilliant-cut facets (or vice versa). This combination gives a look that has the architectural lines of a step-cut plus the sparkle of a brilliant cut, which is exactly what this term denotes.

The other terms don’t describe this blending. A straight step-cut stays with step facets all around, a shape refers to the overall form rather than facet geometry, and pavilion bulge points to a structural feature rather than a distinct combined facet pattern.