What is the Fire in a Diamond?
Imagine vivid colors, like a flame. The “fire” of a diamond is the effect seen when white light disperses into a spectrum of colors upon striking the diamond’s facets (the angled cuts in the stone).
Diamonds feature two primary types of facets: Physical facets and virtual facets. Physical facets are the actual cuts within the diamond. These physical facets can reflect light in various directions, thereby creating virtual facets. (Virtual facets also play a role in diamond brilliance and scintillation.) A diamond with numerous virtual facets can refract more light, enhancing its fire.
(Think of the prism on the cover of Pink Floyd’s Dark Side of the Moon album, where white light hits a transparent triangle and emerges as rainbow light — that wasn’t an illusion from a stoner’s mind; that’s the fire we’re discussing.)
What Diamond Cut has the Most Fire?
Round brilliant cut diamonds are typically known for having the most fire. This is intentional: Since its creation in 1919 by a PhD-educated engineer, gemologists have refined the cut to maximize its fire using mathematical calculations. With 58 facets, the round brilliant cut boasts a high number of physical facets, which in turn creates even more virtual facets.
How to Make Sure You Get a Diamond with Plenty of Fire
To secure a diamond with ample fire, choose a stone exhibiting excellent symmetry. Symmetry influences the diamond’s capacity to reflect and refract light, thereby increasing the important virtual facets. Consulting with a gemologist can assist in this selection.
A triple-X stone represents an ideal choice. The term “triple excellent” refers to excellent cut, symmetry, and polish — one of the grades found on a diamond’s GIA certificate, which any reputable diamond seller should review with you before purchase.
Artful Bracelets employs skilled on-staff gemologists who can guide you through every aspect of the diamond-buying process, including evaluating the diamond fire rating on a GIA certificate. Whether your focus is on sparkle, shape, or budget, they excel in finding the perfect stone for every couple and every budget.
Reach out to our in-house experts via our Contact Us page. If you’re not ready to discuss a specific stone, they can also track down some options for you. Fill out the form below with your preferences and budget, and they will search for suitable diamonds. Once they identify three diamonds they believe will be a great match, they’ll send these choices straight to your inbox. Love one? Excellent! Add it to your cart or call a gemologist to discuss further. Not satisfied? Simply reply with more details about your preferences, and they will continue the search. It’s that straightforward to find the diamond of your dreams.
