Diamonds were once considered ugly.
With no way to cut them, the ancients wore diamonds in the rough and valued them chiefly as talismans. Only when properly cut, however, does a diamond transform from a dull crystal into a dazzling gem.
In India, gem cutters learned how to shape diamonds early on, yet they refrained from altering nature’s sacred design. In Europe, cutters were daunted by diamond’s legendary hardness.
When they finally dared to cut the stone, their goal became clear: to release as much brilliance as possible—always at the risk of destroying a gem of immense value.
From these experiments emerged over 80 diamond cuts—each an attempt to master light or form.
Inside this book, discover:
- India’s enigmatic Mughal diamond cuts
- The point and table cuts of Europe
- The rose cut and its mysterious origin
- Early brilliant cuts and their diverse facets
- Rare antique diamond cuts rarely discussed elsewhere
Which cut would ultimately unlock the true brilliance of the world’s most prized gemstone?
In this fully illustrated and deeply researched guide, follow the history of diamond cutting across centuries—alongside the rise of cutting centers and the methods that shaped the hardest natural material.
Blending history, science and artistry, 80 Diamond Cuts is a visual and comprehensive guide to how human ingenuity transformed “unsightly stones” into the most brilliant gems.
Coming very soon!
