Which pair constitutes the two cut factors considered under the cut factor categories?

• A. Polish and symmetry.
• B. Craftsmanship and brightness.
• C. Table size and girdle thickness.
• D. Crown height and pavilion depth.

Answer: (A)

The two cut factors evaluated for cut quality are polish and symmetry. Polish refers to how smooth and blemish-free the facet surfaces are after the cutting and polishing process; better polish means less surface roughness and fewer polishing marks, which reduces light leakage and enhances brilliance. Symmetry looks at how well the facets are aligned and proportioned across the diamond—perfect symmetry ensures light is reflected properly from one facet to another, maximizing fire and sparkle. Together, these two aspects define how well the cut enables light to perform in the stone.

The other options don’t fit because they describe either measurement-related features or characteristics not classified as cut factors. Craftsmanship and brightness aren’t the standard paired cut factors in this framework. Table size and girdle thickness are specific dimensional attributes, while crown height and pavilion depth are depth proportions; each can affect overall light performance, but they’re not the two cut factors used in the cut factor categories.