Contrary to popular belief, there’s nothing flawed about crushed ice diamonds — it truly boils down to individual taste.
What Defines a Crushed Ice Diamond?
Frequently referred to as a crushed glass diamond, a crushed ice diamond is a gemstone with a center that bears a resemblance to shattered glass or ice.
So, does this affect the stone and its structural integrity in any way? Absolutely not. The crushed ice look arises from having smaller facets on the bottom of the stone compared to other cushion cut diamonds. These tiny facets reflect and refract light amongst themselves, creating a crushed appearance. This design is a purposeful creation by the diamond cutter — but we’ll delve into that shortly.
Are Crushed Ice Diamonds Available in All Shapes?
While radiant cut diamonds can exhibit a similar appearance, crushed ice diamonds are mainly found in cushion cut diamonds.
What is the Purpose of Creating Crushed Ice Diamonds?
When selecting the shape of a diamond, a skilled diamond cutter makes a choice that preserves most of the stone’s shape while minimizing inclusions (they aim to maximize utilization). A crushed ice diamond indicates that the cutter determined smaller facets would yield the most exquisite stone from the given raw material.
How do Crushed Ice Diamonds Differ from Non-Crushed Ice Diamonds?
So, how can you distinguish a crushed ice cushion cut diamond? Non-crushed ice diamonds have larger facets at the center, resulting in fewer but more distinct flashes of light. Unlike crushed ice diamonds, these facets are visible as the stone sparkles, showing light sources clearly. When impeccably cut, these facets can even form “arrows” in the corners.
Conversely, crushed ice diamonds sparkle more intensely due to their numerous small facets, creating a blended sparkle. The different facets reflecting light simultaneously make it hard to pinpoint individual light sources. Preference for one over the other is subjective. Some people are captivated by crushed ice diamonds, while others favor the broader faceting of a standard cushion cut, and neither perspective is incorrect.
Which is Preferable: Crushed Ice Diamonds or Non-Crushed Ice Diamonds?
There’s no definitive “better” choice when comparing crushed ice diamonds to other cushion cut stones. It ultimately depends on your personal preference and budget priorities, particularly regarding which of the 4Cs of diamonds (cut, clarity, color, carat) is most significant to you.
Nonetheless, you must know what to expect with each type. Crushed ice diamonds have smaller facets that can conceal imperfections, known as inclusions, effectively. However, these small facets also enhance the visibility of the stone’s color and tint. Non-crushed ice diamonds may show inclusions more clearly but typically exhibit less color.
Additionally, there’s a price difference: Crushed ice diamonds generally cost less than their non-crushed ice counterparts — sometimes by up to 15 percent.
Tips for Purchasing a Crushed Ice Diamond
So, you’ve decided that crushed ice diamonds are ideal for your engagement ring. That’s fantastic, but the journey is just starting. Given the unique nature of these stones, several factors need consideration during the purchase. First and foremost, discount the naysayers who criticize crushed ice diamonds as a poor choice. Remember, it’s all about your personal preference. There’s no fault in liking these stones, so appreciate their look and the potential cost savings.
However, it’s advisable not to undertake the buying process alone. Consulting an expert gemologist is beneficial since distinguishing crushed ice diamonds from regular ones can be challenging based on photos or videos alone.
Seek Expertise for Easier Decision-Making
When collaborating with your gemologist, ask numerous questions to ensure you’re securing the best value. For instance, inquire where you can compromise on clarity since the facets on crushed ice diamonds obscure inclusions. Also, ask how much you can elevate the color grade within your budget because these stones tend to display more tint than standard ones.
The knowledgeable gemologists at Artful Bracelets are well-versed in both the intricate details and pricing of crushed ice diamonds. They can guide you towards the perfect stone aligning with your aspirations and financial plans. Not sure where to start? Let them assist by completing the form below with your diamond preferences. Our gemologist will handpick three diamonds they believe might suit you. If they don’t meet your expectations, simply email back with more specific requirements and they’ll keep searching until they find the suitable ones.
