Fancy-shaped diamonds, now accounting for over 50% of GCAL’s submissions, are growing in popularity. Building on the success of the 8X Oval and Princess cuts, GCAL has redefined how fancy shapes are evaluated by focusing on eight critical factors, including a new parameter, "shape aesthetics," tailored to highlight the unique characteristics of each diamond shape.
Traditional grading for fancy shapes often emphasizes polish and symmetry. However, GCAL’s 8X cut grade evaluates eight critical factors: polish, external symmetry, proportions, optical brilliance, fire, scintillation, optical symmetry, and shape aesthetics. This comprehensive approach ensures that the Marquise and Pear shapes not only excel in light performance but also exhibit the elegance and desirability unique to their forms.
The Marquise diamond’s elongated silhouette exudes sophistication, often creating the illusion of a slimmer finger when set in a ring. However, achieving brilliance in this shape poses challenges, particularly with the “bowtie” effect—a dark area under the table caused by light blockage. GCAL’s stringent cutting parameters, such as the precise alignment of pavilion half-facets and crown angles, minimize this effect, maximizing light return and enhancing the stone’s brilliance.
Combining the grace of a Marquise with the brilliance of a Round, Pear-shaped diamonds present their own challenges, including light escape at the stone’s rounded head. GCAL’s 8X guidelines optimize proportions to combat these issues, delivering a balanced, visually appealing cut with minimized bowtie effects and enhanced light performance.
According to Angelo Palmieri, GCAL by Sarine’s president, “Our goal was to ensure these fancy shapes exhibit unparalleled brilliance, fire, and scintillation while maintaining their aesthetic appeal. Through scientific analysis and precise craftsmanship, we’ve set a new standard for Marquise and Pear shapes.”
Erick Castille, head of the 8X development team, emphasized the role of data-driven innovation: “We utilized our extensive database of diamond analytics to identify the proportion combinations that deliver the best light performance. This ensures every 8X certified diamond is of the highest quality, supported by verifiable evidence.”
GCAL’s 8X certification provides retailers with scientifically-backed tools to demonstrate a diamond’s quality, helping consumers make informed choices. With the success of existing 8X shapes and growing demand for fancy diamonds, the company is already planning to expand the range further.
As Angelo Palmieri concluded, “Our 8X certified diamonds continue to set the benchmark for excellence in fancy shapes. The new Marquise and Pear cuts represent a significant step forward, combining beauty and performance in ways that were previously unattainable.”
GCAL by Sarine’s 8X Marquise and 8X Pear cuts are now available, promising to transform the way consumers and retailers appreciate fancy-shaped diamonds.
