NAVAR BLACK Jewellery & Gemstone Appraisals & Valuations

02/03/2026

https://www.threads.com//post/DVY9KU0ERXH?xmt=AQF08Mkfq0B7osKzdnF2HcFNOTwz4dxq9cf3_SHYQb6NEMnckCqY6QlvNAc7mVWQDJoqAK-4&slof=1

12/12/2024

https://www.instagram.com/reel/DDXLVPzIWXK/?igsh=MThjZTR5MGhscWt1bg==

12/11/2024

10/11/2024

The 19th century ushered in an era of considerable advancements in diamond cutting technology. In 1847, the discovery of diamonds in South Africa dramatically increased the supply of rough stones, making them more accessible to a wider market and burgeoning upper and upper middle class. This abundance inspired cutters to experiment with new techniques and designs to unleash the full potential of diamonds' optical properties.

The most significant development during this period was the creation of the Round Brilliant Cut in the early 1900s. Marcel Tolkowsky, a Belgian diamond cutter, meticulously calculated the ideal proportions and facet arrangements for maximizing brilliance, dispersion, and scintillation. His innovative design remains the most popular and sought-after diamond cut to this day.

Throughout the 20th century, technological advancements in diamond cutting continued to refine and enhance the industry. Precision instruments and computer-aided design (CAD) software allowed for more accurate and intricate cuts, pushing the boundaries of what was possible. New cuts such as the Princess, Emerald, and Asscher, gained popularity, offering unique options for consumers seeking an alternative to the classic Round Brilliant.

Today, diamond cutting is a highly specialized field requiring extensive knowledge, advanced tools, and an artist's touch. The quality and price of a diamond can vary greatly depending on the cut quality, with the most skilled craftsmen creating stones of exceptional beauty and value.

The history of diamond cutting is an illustrious journey that combines artistry, innovation, and the quest for perfection. From its humble beginnings in the Middle Ages to the sophisticated techniques employed today, the craft of transforming rough diamonds into mesmerizing gemstones remains a testament to human ingenuity and our eternal fascination with these precious stones.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spoonmaker's_Diamond

10/11/2024

During the early days of diamond cutting, the Point Cut was prevalent. This technique involved following the natural shape of an octahedral rough diamond crystal, preserving as much of the stone's weight as possible.

The Table Cut emerged in the 15th century, offering a more sophisticated approach. This cut introduced a flat top facet, known as the "table," and a series of smaller facets surrounding it, improving the diamond’s shine and brilliance. The hunt to improve brilliance became paramount and an obsession with cutters, jewellers and wearers.

The Rose Cut, popular in the 17th century, featured a flat base and a domed top covered with triangular facets, resembling the petals of a rose. This cut added more depth and dimension to the stone, allowing for greater light refraction and creating a soft, romantic glow, and even more brilliance and shine was achieved, and this became known as scintillation, and a second obsession was born.

Named after Cardinal Mazarin, the Mazarin Cut, became fashionable during the 18th century. It showcased an innovative design with a cushion-shaped outline and 33 facets, providing a more rounded shape and heightened sparkle (brilliance, scintillation and fire) and another obsession for cutters, jewellers and wearers alike. Stay tuned there is more to follow>>>

10/11/2024

An extremely short exposé on the history of diamond cutting

The art and science (math & physics) of diamond cutting has a rich history spanning many centuries. This is a short and concise look at the many factors that have made the diamond cutter obsessive about the beauty, brilliance and scintillation of this stone. And by no means is this where it will stop, and yes, it will continue after you dear reader and I have long turned to ash.

The art of stone faceting is a skill and craft that has evolved significantly over time, turning rough stones into mesmerising gems that continue to captivate us. A lapidarist facets gemstones but a diamond cutter ‘cuts’ diamonds.

Diamond cutting traces its roots back to the Middle Ages. The process of cleaving and polishing diamonds initially served a functional purpose: to enhance the appearance and durability of these most precious stones. The earliest diamond cutters, known as "diamantaire," used basic tools to create simple, yet beautiful shapes. And in Nuremberg, Germany in 1375, the first guild of diamond cutters was established, marking an important milestone in the industry's history. Stay tuned there is more to follow>>>