How do you judge light return just by looking at stone w/o equip?

[nelmr]

How can you tell if the diamond is cut properly on a high clarity stone? Yeah I know about the table and depth numbers but these are only a guide. What should I see when:

I look down thru the table?
I look at the 4 sides of the diamond?
I look at the pavilion?

What should I not see too. In other words things that are tell tail signs of DO NOT BUY if you are looking for 1a or 1b AGA diamonds?

Thanks everyone

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

You can not unless the diamonds you are comparing are side by side - and then you should have different lighting types.
Otherwise pay me $25 and buy an ideal-scope

 

[phoenixgirl]

The Ideal Scope really is a great way to evaluate diamonds for yourself. Otherwise, I would say become a certified gemologist.