8 Key Concepts Flashcards
How should you view a fashioned diamond’s optical display?
A fashioned diamond’s optical display is meant to be seen face-up and in motion.
What can a skilled cutter’s faceting and proportion choices do to a diamond’s appearance?
A skilled cutter’s faceting and proportion choices unlock a diamond’s unique optical potential.
What is light?
Light is a form of radiant energy that travels in waves.
What is visible light?
Visible light is a small portion of the electromagnetic
spectrum.
White light is a combination of what?
White light is a combination of all the spectral colors.
The angle of incidence always equals the angle of what?
The angle of incidence always equals the angle of reflection.
A material’s optical density can do what to light?
A material’s optical density affects the speed of the light that passes through it.
How do light rays form a critical angle cone inside a diamond?
Light rays that enter at the maximum angle of refraction form a critical angle cone inside the diamond.
The higher a gem’s RI, the smaller its what?
The higher a gem’s RI, the smaller its critical angle.
What happens to white light when it passes at an angle into a denser material?
White light breaks up into its component colors when it
passes at an angle into a denser material.
What is the standard RI and angle of refraction for color?
Each spectral color has its own RI and angle of refraction.
What brings out differing amounts of fire in a diamond?
All diamonds have the same dispersion value, but differences in diamond cut bring out differing amounts of fire.
What view reveals almost all of the cutter’s fashioning choices?
A diamond’s face-up pattern reveals almost all of the cutter’s fashioning choices.
GIA diamond cut grades apply to what cuts and clarities?
GIA diamond cut grades apply to standard round brilliants in all clarities across the D-to-Z color range.
What factors can affect a diamond’s appearance?
Variations in lighting and surroundings can affect a diamond’s appearance.
