Wonder

Research Outline

Prepared for Davis Y. | Delivered February 24, 2020

Diamond Cutting and Polishing

Goals

To provide an analysis of the emerald cut diamonds that are 10-20 carats and above specifically looking at yields, wastage, and average costs in the cutting and polishing process, as well as pricing of the polished stones.

To provide an analysis of the brilliant round cut diamonds that are 10-20 carats and above specifically looking at yields, wastage, and average costs in the cutting and polishing process, as well as pricing of the polished stones.

Early Findings

Here are key pieces of information found on brilliant round cut diamonds during the initial research:
Brilliant Round Cut Diamonds Round cut diamonds are the most expensive diamond shape as a large amount of the rough diamond is discarded in the cutting and polishing process and only about 40% of the original stone is actually used.
The round brilliant has the most facets of any shape, which require more precision work and that's why the cutters have to discard more of the rough diamond. Even with modern techniques, cutting and polishing a diamond always results in dramatic weight loss, about 50%.
For a 1 carat round diamond that's VS2 clarity, an Excellent cut, and a G color diamond, you can expect to pay somewhere around $5283.
A 10 carat weigh around 2.0 grams and a round brilliant cut has a magnificent diameter of 14.0mm or above. The average wholesale price for a GIA Certified 10 carat diamond ranges between $167,200 and $2,245,100. 
SummaryIn the first hour of research we were able to determine that information on the brilliant round cut diamonds that are 10-20 carats, specifically on pricing, yields and wastage, and some associated costs of manufacturing.