Question about HCA grades

[diamonicus]

I'm trying to use the Holloway Cut Advisor to help me in my search for an engagement ring stone, but there's a few things I have questions about. First, the diamond I'm probably leaning most towards gets an Excellent rating in light return, but then three Very Goods for fire, scintillation, and spread, but it still comes up as a 1.9 Excellent for its overall HCA rating. Is this usual for three VEry Goods and one excellent to make an excellent overall? (EDIT: I should mention that the specific proportions I'm looking at are: table: 56; depth: 61.1; pavillion 41 degrees; crown 34.7 degrees)

Also, If under 2.0 is excellent, should I be concerned that 1.9 is really borderline? Or will AGS ideal polish and symetry make those concerns moot? One thing I guess I don't understand in general is what the HCA means when it says that one's own preference may be for diamonds may be in the 1.5 range or more range? What about these 1.5ish diamonds might be more preferable to some people?

Can anyone clear any of this up or at least offer any opinions? Thanks!

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

At 1.9 i would want the stone to have a high level of symmetry.

HCA is a tool for rejection - you now need to do the other work to ensure it is a keeper.

 

[Maxine]

Gary, please explain that.......................

 

[diamonicus]

Thanks Garry...the stone is rated AGS ideal for symetry, so that''s good I guess then.

What specifically would you or anyone else recommend I do to make sure it''s a keeper? That''s where I''m a little unsure as to how to make a decision. I''ve read all the diamond education info and I understand all of the technical variables. I''ve looked at the stone and compared its sparkle to other stones in different kinds of light (though I did notice that when I took it outside on a very overcast day, the sparkle kind of died...is this to be expected?). Aside from getting it independently appraised, what other work do I need to do?

Thanks!

 

[Lord Summerisle]

aye, is that symmetry as in meet point? or internally... and on both counts... havent you said neither types really affect light performance... or is that only H&A precision doesnt have an effect over excellent sysmetry?

Sorry to be asking - just after clarification

 

[Garry H (Cut Nut)]

An ideal-scope photo would show that there has been no nasty upper girdle tricks.