Using the Ideal Scope for Diamonds
The Ideal-Scope is an awesome tool for measuring the cut quality of a diamond. It shows how much light the diamond reflects and is a great visual example of judging the brilliance of a diamond.
The Ideal-Scope itself looks kind of like the kaleidoscope toys that kids like to play with. However, the scope gives you an accurate view of how much light is reflected back by the diamond and how much is leaked out. Obviously, the more light reflected back, the better. That means the diamond will shine and sparkle.
The visual information that you get from an Ideal-Scope goes beyond what the 4 C’s tell you. The Ideal-Scope image is specific to each diamond and there is no guesswork. However, it isn’t necessary to view an Ideal-Scope image before purchasing. You can still make a good decision without one.
Anyway, here’s how to use it.
| This is an example of an Ideal-Scope image of a very well-cut diamond: |  |
Red indicates light that is reflected back, and white shows light leakage. More red is better, so this is a well cut diamond.
| And here’s an example of a poorly cut diamond. |  |
Notice all the white spots. This means that a lot of light is being lost inside the diamond, and it won’t be as brilliant as a better cut diamond.
Here’s a reference chart from the creators of the Ideal-Scope. You can use this chart to compare a diamond that you’re looking at to judge its quality.
Here’s the most important question: How do you get Ideal-Scope images? Well, James Allen has Ideal-Scope images for all of their Hearts and Arrows diamonds freely available on their website. Also, you can email them to request an Ideal-Scope image of any of their other diamonds. This is the email address to use: service (at) jamesallen.com.
The other way to view Ideal-Scope images is to buy your own Ideal-Scope. You can find more information or buy one at the official Ideal-Scope website.
However, the quickest way to see Ideal-Scope images of diamonds you can buy is from James Allen’s collection of Hearts and Arrows diamonds. Hope this has been helpful!
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