Wonder

Research Outline

Prepared for Davis | Delivered February 23, 2020

Diamond Cutting and Polishing

Goals

To provide an analysis of the cushion 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 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

Our research on cushion cut diamonds revealed insights. Here are key pieces of information we found:
Cushion Cut Diamonds The cushion cut is the third most popular diamond shape. 
Many of the world’s most famous and largest diamonds are the cushion cut, including the Hope Diamond (45.42 carats), the yellow Tiffany Diamond (128.54 carats), and the Regent Diamond (140.5 carats).
Manufacturing cushion cuts maximizes the yield of original rough diamonds with less wastage and larger finished gems.
 Cushion cuts are one of the simpler shapes that can be created, reducing the average cost of processing, with less time and technical expertise needed. The estimated cost of cutting and processing an uncut diamond can range from $125-$400 per carat.
The cushion cut is one of the best diamond shapes for value. Since such a small percentage of the original rough diamond is discarded in the cutting and polishing process, cushion cut diamonds are very affordable. 
The pricing of cushion cut diamonds that are 10-20 carats as calculated by 5 carat increments can range from $123,000-$246,000 for a minimum range, and $159,860-$319,720 for a maximum range, with average pricing ranging from $146,503.34-$293,006.68.