Diamond anatomy is a map: the table and crown sit above the girdle, the pavilion extends below it, and the culet is at the lower tip or facet. Those parts and their facets interact, so a single percentage cannot describe the complete result.

A diagram-friendly guide to table, crown, girdle, pavilion, culet, total depth, and facets that explains how report measurements orient a reader without turning anatomy into a one-field quality test.

What this guide covers

Learn the location and role of each named region.
Match report measurements and percentages to the diagram's stated method.
Read the parts together with symmetry, polish, light appearance, and shape.

Use anatomy as a connected map

Table and crown

The table is the large top facet; the crown runs from the table area down to the girdle and carries upper facets.

Girdle

The girdle forms the perimeter where crown and pavilion meet and can carry thickness descriptions or an inscription.

Pavilion and culet

The pavilion extends below the girdle toward a pointed or faceted culet and plays a central role in the light path.

Depth and facets

Total depth and facet arrangement describe geometry, but their effects depend on the rest of the proportion system.

Read an anatomy diagram responsibly

1 — Confirm the diagram's shape
Do not assume a round-brilliant drawing represents the facet layout or measurement method of every fancy shape.
2 — Trace each report field
Connect measurements, table and depth percentages, girdle description, culet, symmetry, and polish to the applicable definitions.
3 — Return to the whole stone
Use anatomy to ask better questions, then review face-up pattern, motion, durability, and the intended setting.

Anatomy does not diagnose performance

Scope boundary · evidence version 2026-07-19
This page does not calculate cut grade, reproduce every laboratory's measurement method, or infer light return and durability from one field. Report diagrams may be schematic, shapes differ, and the complete diamond requires the applicable report and direct review.

Diamond anatomy questions

Is the table the top of the diamond?

It is the large top facet; the crown includes the upper portion that extends from the girdle toward the table.

Is a culet always visible?

No. It can be pointed or a small facet, and the applicable report may describe its size.

Does a depth percentage determine cut?

No. It interacts with the remaining proportions, finish, shape, and face-up behavior.

Continue exploring

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