Why is the Diamond’s Table Important?

Considered the ‘face’ of the diamond, the table is a location of prime importance as it is essential in establishing a good impression on the observer. This is because at first glance, the eye is always drawn to the top centre of the diamond rather than its angled sides.

The First Cut

When a rough diamond is first cut, it is sliced along the widest part of the stone. This becomes the table, making it the first and most important facet. This initial view of the table is where the cutter gets their first understanding of the rough diamond’s quality and gives an indication to the grade that will be awarded.

What’s a Table Clean Diamond?

The table of a diamond is the largest facet located at the top-centre of the stone. When there are no blemishes or inclusions located within this facet, the diamond is considered ‘table-clean’.

Table clean diamonds are seen as the ‘holy grail’ as the table is the worst location for any blemishes or inclusions. The most coveted diamonds are those that are table-clean with no flaws in or reflected within the table. Any flaws present will either be found on the sides or along the girdle, where they are less obvious and can be hidden.

Do I Need a Table Clean Diamond?

In respect to all clarity grades, diamonds that have a clean table are always the best value for money. However, as the clarity grade of the diamond reduces so do the chances of finding a diamond that has a clean table.

The value of a diamond has inherently been attributed to the stone’s rarity however, contrary to common belief, the grading of the stone does not solely define this. The rarity of a diamond is actually defined by its individual characteristics and for the aspects of the stone that makes it hard to find. A table clean diamond, especially within lower clarity grades is a great example of a rare characteristic.

For example, an SI1 diamond that has a clean table is much rarer than a diamond that is table clean with a VVS clarity grade. In this case, the value of the SI1 stone is secured through its rare features that make it an exception to the diamonds usually found within its grade.