Diamond cutting began about 600 years ago. Those first attempts involved cutting off the top parts of octahedral crystals (the most perfectly formed diamond roughs) to make a flat surface that would erupt with light. More facets were then added to the sides to create even more light return. Thus began a search for a shape that would unlock the most light from a diamond - and by the late 18th century, this was identified as the round. This shape - above any other - now offers the greatest potential for maximum light return. The popularity of this shape also proves the appeal of seeing so much light. They are the only diamonds cut by the EightStar Diamond Company. (LEFT: Eightstar Diamond as seen through a Firescope.)

The cutting process is intense, but an EightStar Diamond cannot be produced by an automated or computerized system - or by adhering to any rigid formula for external appearance. The secret of the EightStar is that each cutter learns to let the diamond dictate its own path to perfect light return. Simply cutting to standardized measurements doesn't work to produce a high-performance diamond. This means that cutting the stone will demand exceptional time and patience.

On average, each EightStar Diamond will take 32 hours. During these hours, the cutter will consult the Firescope hundreds of time to ensure that the facets are placed perfectly. This is why the EightStar is so exclusive. Only a limited number can be produced each year. Come by David Fairclough Fine Jewelers and see why the EightStar Diamond is one of the most magnificent cut diamonds you can buy.