What Is Ideal Depth And Table Of A Diamond

When it comes to evaluating the quality and brilliance of a diamond, two key factors that play a crucial role are its depth and table. Both depth and table influence the way light interacts with the diamond, affecting its fire, brilliance, and overall appearance.

What is Diamond Depth?

The depth of a diamond refers to the distance from the table (the flat top facet) to the culet (the pointed bottom facet). It is expressed as a percentage of the diamond's overall diameter. Ideal diamond depth varies depending on the cut, but generally falls within a narrow range.

Impact of Depth on Light Performance

The depth of a diamond directly affects how light enters and reflects within the stone. An ideal depth allows light to enter through the table and bounce off the pavilion facets (the lower part of the diamond) before exiting through the crown (the upper part of the diamond). This results in optimal light performance, creating a maximum level of brilliance and fire.

Diamonds with too shallow a depth may allow light to escape through the sides, resulting in reduced brilliance. Conversely, diamonds with too deep a depth may cause light to be trapped within the pavilion, leading to a dull appearance.

What is Diamond Table?

The table of a diamond refers to the flat, polished surface that forms the top of the diamond. Its size is measured as a percentage of the diamond's overall diameter. The table affects the diamond's spread and the way it appears when viewed from above.

Impact of Table on Appearance

The size of the table influences the diamond's spread and scintillation. A larger table results in a wider spread, making the diamond appear larger from certain angles. However, a table that is too large can compromise brilliance and fire.

Diamonds with tables that are too small may appear to have a "fisheye" effect, where the center of the diamond appears dark or sunken. Ideal table size balances spread and light performance, creating an overall aesthetically pleasing appearance.

Ideal Depth and Table for Common Diamond Cuts

The ideal depth and table percentages vary slightly for different diamond cuts. Here are the general guidelines:

Round Brilliant Cut: Depth 58-62.5%, Table 54-58%
Princess Cut: Depth 68-75%, Table 66-75%
Emerald Cut: Depth 60-65%, Table 55-65%
Cushion Cut: Depth 61-64%, Table 57-63%
Oval Cut: Depth 57-63%, Table 55-61%

It's important to note that these are general guidelines, and slight variations may occur within the ideal ranges. When selecting a diamond, it's always advisable to consult a qualified gemologist or jeweler to determine the optimal depth and table for the specific cut and desired appearance.