How does crystal shape influence the evaluation of rough diamonds?

The evaluation of rough diamonds is significantly influenced by their crystal shape, primarily in the context of how much weight is retained after cutting. The shape determines the amount of rough material that can be transformed into polished stones, which is essential when assessing a diamond's potential value. Different shapes may yield different amounts of usable material post-cutting; for example, some shapes allow for more efficient cutting processes that maximize the carat weight of the final product.

While other factors such as color quality, clarity ratings, and market price may be impacted by a diamond’s characteristics or market trends, they are more indirectly related to the crystal shape in terms of evaluation. The primary concern when evaluating rough diamonds, however, is the efficient conversion of rough to polished form while retaining as much weight as possible. Therefore, the influence of crystal shape on the amount of weight retained after cutting is crucial in determining a diamond's overall value and desirability in the market.