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Abraded Culet

a·br​a·​ded cu·​let | ə-ˈbrād kyü-lət

noun

A chipped or scratched culet

In many cases, this abrasion is caused by contact with another diamond. The sharp point at the bottom of the diamond may become damaged and worn away with wear. The culet is considered the most vulnerable segment of the diamond, which is why it is imperative to hold it in a protective setting to reduce the risk. An abraded culet may appear blurred under magnification and affect the polish grade of a diamond. In the past, immense or large culets were a common feature of a diamond. Today, immense culets are deemed unappealing as a culet provides a supplementary facet at the segment of the diamond where light may escape, diminishing the stone’s overall beauty. The culet is described according to its size. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses an 8-grade system to rate culets, ranging from none to extremely large.

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