There is a relatively new design trend where a few designers are using “Ice” Diamonds, which are flat “slices” of polished diamonds. These are often irregular outlines, and show some natural colors and imperfections within the diamond. They are very interesting and really quite beautiful when done well, but I am having a hard time finding good images of them. The European market has really embraced this design, but the US not so much. 2 designers that I know of that work with these diamonds are Hellmuth and Mattioli, but I can’t find good examples on their websites.

While these flat diamonds are very interesting, you are correct that they won’t be as brilliant as fully-faceted diamonds are. Diamonds need a certain amount of depth and very specific faceting and angles to maximize their brilliance. You might purchase a flat diamond more as a piece of art or wearable sculpture than for its sparkle. BUT, if you don’t want sacrifice brilliance, there are some great low-profile settings that would be perfect for someone very active.

Your question has prompted me to do a couple of posts in the next few weeks: Ice diamonds, comfortable low-profile setting options, and also a post on why diamonds need a certain proportion of depth for brilliance. I’ll link this to them when I have them ready.

Thanks so much!
Platinumgirl