From Rough to Radiance: Crafting Polished Diamonds
Sorting
Every diamond’s journey begins as a raw, unpolished gem—a true diamond in the rough. Supreme Exports receives these stones from a portfolio of trusted ethical suppliers. Our expert rough diamond planners meticulously evaluate each gem, analysing its size, shape, clarity, and color to uncover its potential. If a diamond qualifies for our exclusive Flawless Collection, it is set aside for specialized attention. For other exceptional diamonds, the planning department’s experts take over to map out their transformation.
Planning
In this phase, skilled artisans begin envisioning the diamond’s future. Acting as the architects of the gem, the planners explore multiple possibilities for its final shape, size, and color. They carefully decide how to highlight the stone’s unique characteristics while strategically addressing minor inclusions, determining which to retain and which to remove. This meticulous planning ensures every diamond fulfills its highest potential.
Sawing
In the sawing stage, the rough diamonds are meticulously cut into one or more stones, guided by the planner’s vision. Using advanced computer-aided laser technology, we replace the traditional hammer-and-chisel approach with precision-driven machinery. These state-of-the-art lasers work noiselessly, atom by atom, ensuring accuracy. Setting the stone correctly in the machine and programming precise cuts require skill and care, and our cutters continually innovate with new techniques to enhance efficiency and precision.
Shaping
Shaping, often referred to as the 4P process, is where a diamond begins to take its polished form. This process shapes the base and establishes the girdle—the narrow band around the edge separating the crown and pavilion. While some shaping is still done manually, most is performed mechanically, using modern laser technology for accuracy.
Polishing
The final step is polishing, where the diamond’s brilliance is fully realized. Leveraging the diamond’s inherent hardness, our artisans use a ceramic wheel coated in industrial diamond grit, paired with an electronically controlled lathe. This process, often called bruting, demands exceptional precision. The contact between the diamond and the scaife (the spinning wheel) is carefully calibrated, with a coolant solution continuously applied to prevent heat damage such as burn marks or microfractures, ensuring the gem’s size and clarity remain pristine.
At every stage, our meticulous processes and innovative techniques ensure that each diamond emerges as a masterpiece, ready to shine.