what does hearts and arrows cut diamond mean

To a layman, hearts and arrows diamonds could mean heart-shaped diamonds or arrow-shaped diamonds. But seasoned diamond connoisseurs know it’s not that simple.

Hearts and arrows diamonds display high symmetry and optical precision. So, does that mean they are ideal diamonds? Maybe, and maybe not.

If you are curious to learn more about hearts and arrows diamonds, or why they are considered the best diamond cuts for engagement rings, this article is for you.

Read on!

What are hearts and arrows diamonds?

Hearts and arrows diamonds, also known as H&A, are round brilliant diamonds that have a high level of three-dimensional symmetry. Their symmetry is also called optical symmetry or optical precision.

Hearts and arrows are recognized for their distinctive aesthetic qualities, which are the outcome of flawless facet alignment and precise cutting. Typically rated for the 4Cs of diamonds, H&A diamonds are assessed for the hearts and arrows shapes that form on the diamond facets.

Let’s understand this better.

The pattern that can be observed when the diamond is viewed from the bottom, where eight symmetrical heart-shaped patterns can be seen due to the arrangement of facets, is referred to as the hearts.

The arrows design, which consists of eight arrow-like forms radiating outward from the diamond’s center, is visible when viewed from the top. The perfect symmetry and excellent cut of the diamond are demonstrated by this distinctive visual effect.

Here’s an image that will help you understand hearts and arrows diamonds better:

Are hearts and arrows diamonds equal to ideal / excellent diamonds?

It must be noted that not every diamond that is given an ‘excellent cut’ rating (by GIA) or ‘ideal cut’ rating (by AGS) qualifies as a hearts and arrows diamond. To achieve hearts and arrows patterning, each facet is polished to specific angles and proportions. This patterning may or may not be available in ideal and excellent-cut diamonds; hence, these terms cannot be used interchangeably to equate to H&A diamonds.

Tips for buying good hearts and arrows diamonds?

Whether you’re keen on buying hearts and arrows lab diamonds or mined diamonds, in order to determine whether a diamond is a genuine H&A diamond, you must carefully examine the following elements:

• You won’t be able to see the hearts and arrows shapes with your naked eyes; you must view them with the right equipment.

• Look for eight identical, balanced, and equal hearts.

• The arrowheads above the hearts should be distinguishable from one another.

• The hearts and the Vs should therefore be separated by a space. The gap must be distinct and clean.

• The exterior, middle side of the heart should not have any clefs.

• Look for hearts and arrows lab diamonds to get the best diamonds at affordable rates.

Should you buy hearts and arrows diamonds?

As we know, hearts and arrows diamonds are considered high-quality as they are cut with a higher level of precision. These diamonds definitely have a higher aesthetic value. These diamond cuts are especially preferred for engagement and wedding rings.

Besides, because these diamonds have hearts that are visible through a special viewer, you will require the help of a diamond expert to help you view the heart shape and arrow shapes. It is advisable to buy lab-grown hearts and arrows diamonds, as you can buy them at a more affordable rate. For example, the price of a 1-carat diamond differs vastly depending on whether it is lab-made or mined.

The best practice to follow when considering a hearts and arrows diamond is to look for lab-made options. You can find a wide range of H&A diamonds online. Whether you’re looking at retail or wholesale purchase or hearts and arrows lab diamonds, you’ll be spoilt for choice with the many online lab-grown diamond stores.