Round
diamonds are the most popular of all the shapes, perhaps because their circular
proportions display the most "fire" and reflect more light back to
the observer than any other shape. Round diamonds require that more rough be
removed during cutting and polishing than with other shapes. The combined popularity
of round diamonds and the significant weight loss during cutting are the two
main contributing factors to the relatively higher price of these stones.
This
shape has set the standard for all other diamond shapes, and accounts for more
than 75% of diamonds sold today. Its 58-facet cut, divided among its crown (top),
girdle (widest part) and pavilion (base),
is calibrated through a precise formula to achieve the maximum in fire and brilliance.