Indirect light vs Direct light

[jorgep]

Rhino,
Is this a good summary of your view?
Good HCA = Good direct light return
Good optical symmetry = Good indirect light (office lights, diffuse lights)

The HCA score can be readily computed using the website, but in order to check optical symmetry, you need a physical analysis of the stone.

It seems like all of the equipment is on the east coast. Are there anyone out on the west coast, or more specifically, Los Angeles, who can do that type of physical analysis?

Thanks,
JorgeP

 

[Rhino]

You've hit the nail squarely on the head Jorgep. Every person reading this forum should understand this simple truth (demonstrated in another thread).




You can do all the homework you want, get a copy of a GIA and a Sarin with what appears to be the *best* numbers possible. This will, at the very least give an indicator of how the stone will appear in direct light conditions. That does not mean all light conditions and especially light conditions that emphasize optical symmetry and contrast brilliance/scintillation.




A Sarin report, a GIA or AGS report does not give us the info to determine optical symmetry. A knowledge of *all* the facets and the variances that all of them have been cut to would be required and very few people have the hardware to measure all 57-58 facets of the diamond much less the knowledge to know how they will impact brilliance, fire, scintillation and symmetry within a diamond. AGS only provides the averages of 17 out of 58 facets, GIA doesn't even give the measurements on the 17 major facets.




While I emphasize the importance of proportions I would not do so at the expense of precision craftsmanship with regards to optical symmetry. They are equally as important and both factors contribute to the overall beauty of the diamond. One is not to be neglected at the expense of the other.




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If you are opposed to shopping via the net and would prefer to stay local that is understandable. What you need to do is start shopping your locals and asking them if they carry or have access to diamonds with high optical symmetry (ie. H&A's). Come back to the forum and let us know the proportions of the stones they are showing you and you've got a ton of people here who are all willing to give you their opinion

including me.

After you think you've found something that appears to be a winner at a fair price HAVE THE DIAMOND CHECKED by an appraiser who is familiar with diamonds that have the kind of optical symmetry I'm talking about. GET EVIDENCE. I say this because there are many hucksters out there who will tell people what they want to hear. You want to see some PROOF PLUS you want to have it checked. RockDoc (www.consumersgemlab.com) and Dave Atlas (www.gemappraisers.com) are 2 appraisers worth looking further into. You'd be surprised how many appraisers are behind the times.




If you have any other questions we're here for ya.




Peace,


Rhino

 

[jorgep]

Rhino,
Thanks for the quick reply. Your insight is much appreciated.

Cut Nut,
I think I read that you view light leakage as more important than optical symmetry. Can you confirm and/or expand on this?

I don't want to start an all out debate. I just want to get different opinions and as much knowledge as possible.

Thanks,
JorgeP