The Effect of a Diamond's Culet

Although they were commonly used in Old European Cut and Old Miner's Cut diamonds a century ago, large culets are not desirable by modern cutting standards because they are visible through the table facet when the diamond is viewed from above. A large, very large, or extremely large culet acts like a window parallel to the table of the diamond, allowing light to escape through the bottom and making the culet appear as a dark circle. Although the absence of a culet is most desirable, a diamond with a small or medium-sized culet will appear to have a point at the base of the pavilion, and will perfectly reflect the light that passes through the stone. However, a pointed culet has a very slight risk of chipping while setting or being worn, so it is crucial to secure the diamond in a protective setting to minimize contact with hard or abrasive surfaces. A high setting will also help to prevent contact with the metal or the finger. Some diamond cutters intentionally cut a small culet to minimize the risk of chipping.

Unless you're looking for an antique setting and prefer an older style diamond cut, choose a stone with a small culet or none at all, as this will display the diamond's fire and brilliance to the best effect.