Photo's with permission of IGI "Courtesy of International Gemological Institute".
In 1996, the IGI created the "Hearts & Arrows Diamond Report" and was one of the first laboratories to perform an optical symmetry evaluation.
Many think that the diamond cut marketed as "Hearts and Arrows" must have an Excellent cut. In fact, this cut only indicates perfect symmetry. A "Hearts and Arrows" diamond shows an arrow pattern through the plaque and a heart pattern through the pavilion. It will always have excellent symmetry. However, he will not always be excellent in other aspects of the cut.
This cut has become so popular that "Hearts and Arrows" diamonds sometimes cost more than comparable diamonds with other cuts, especially when purchased from companies that specialize in this cut. Highly symmetrical diamonds require more time to cut and waste more rough weight than other diamonds. This contributes to their price premium.