The term “Hearts and Arrows” refers specifically to round brilliant diamonds that
have been cut to a very high degree of three dimensional symmetry; also referred
to as “optical symmetry”. Such diamonds will show a distinct pattern of 8 arrows
when viewed from the top in a special reflector device, and a pattern of 8 distinct
hearts when viewed from the bottom.
It is very difficult for the diamond cutter to achieve this level of precision in
three dimensions, requiring more skill, more time, and the loss of more weight from
the original diamond rough thereby making it more costly to produce.
Achieving optical symmetry requires an exacting process of making sure all of the
tiny facets are lined up perfectly against their counterparts on the opposite side
of the diamond. Only then will a precise pattern of hearts and arrows be present.
Interestingly enough, it is often assumed that hearts and arrows diamonds are all
ideal cut diamonds, but this is not always the case. It is possible to cut diamonds
with proportions that are somewhat less than ideal and still line up all the facets
properly in three dimensions. This can create a diamond with both hearts and arrows
patterning and light leakage. Likewise, it is possible to cut a diamond to ideal
proportions and receive an ideal grade without achieving perfect optical symmetry.
Certified ideal cut diamonds with hearts and arrows patterning are often referred
to as “super ideal”.
Hearts and arrows patterning is a related but independent factor in terms of what
makes ideal cut diamonds. The Gemological Institute of America (Gem Trade Laboratory)
does not issue a report designating a diamond as Ideal, nor do they grade for optical
symmetry. Their highest grade is Excellent. The American Gem Society Laboratory
(AGSL) which performs the most sophisticated diamond cut quality analysis uses a
0-10 grading scale with 0 signifying Ideal. AGSL, like GIA, grades symmetry on their
reports as it relates to facets meeting at symmetrical points around the stone.
It is possible to achieve ideal “meet point” symmetry without achieving perfect
optical symmetry and hearts and arrows patterning.
Super ideal cut diamonds like the
A CUT ABOVE® Hearts and Arrows combine ideal light performance and perfect
alignment of all facets in three dimensions, creating a perfectly “tuned” diamond
which produces fire and brilliance at the extremes of what is technically possible.
Please visit this page for more information about the technical aspects of
hearts and arrows formation.