Problems in the culet can be easily seen with 10X magnification either through the Table
or from the Pavillion side. Abrasions, chips, nicks,
and in the rare case failure by the cutter to bring the culet to a point and leaving one or more pavillions unpolished ( hence "natural diamond rough")
can be detected.
Chips and nicks may be the result of improper handling,
i.e.; tweezers without plastic
protective coating at the tips or if
there are inclusions in the area, may indicate
an area of graining or knot lines that are more prone to
breakage.
Sensitive culets are more prevalent in fancy shapes
and great care must be exercised when handling Princess, marquise, and pear shapes.
Barry
www.superbcert.com