Mounted Diamonds

Good Backlighting

Leakage is harder to see if light is blocked from entering the back of a stone.

The more enclosed the setting the less back light. Aim for good even light from behind the stone, but beware of direct glare; it will make facets look pale and shiny.

Using the Ideal-Light and tweezers
Try holding rings up to ceiling lights
with the tips of your fingers or tweezers.


Settings

Light leakage often occurs in the upper girdle facets which may be covered over by the setting. If there is leakage in the centre then there is usually leakage in the outer facets.

unset diamond

set diamond

Dirt and Grime
Even though this diamond is not well cut, you can see that dirt gives a misleading impression of leakage. Clean first with very hot water, ammonia and detergent and a good scrub with a toothbrush.

dirty diamond

clean diamond

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  How to Use IS & ASET
     
  Taking IS Photos  
     
  Using ASET Scope  
     
  Reference Chart - IS  
     
  Reference Chart - ASET  
     
  Light Return & Shadow  
     
  Mounted Diamonds  
     
  Fancy Shapes - IS & ASET  
     
  Symmetry  
     
  Ideal-Scope Test  
     
  Using Tweezers  
     
  HCA CUT CALCULATOR(free)  
     
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