• The AGS Performance-Based Cut Grading System takes advantage of revolutionary hardware and software in considering a diamond's performance
• The diamonds are first measured using a computerized measuring device, which also creates a three-dimensional model.
• The diamond grader imports the information into the AGS ray-tracing software and receives values for proportions and light performance.
• The diamond grader then analyzes the girdle, the culet, the symmetry, and the polish characteristics of the diamond.

All form the three elements to the final Cut Grade - Light Performance, Proportion Factors, and Finish, giving you a more thoroughly analyzed diamond, which in turn helps you make a more informed buying decision.

As an indication of the level of thoroughness of the AGS Performance-Based Cut Grade, each category takes into consideration the following 11 factors — definitions for these terms and others can be found in the Glossary of Terms.

Light Performance
Brightness
Dispersion (Fire)
Leakage
Contrast

Proportion Factors
Girdle Thickness
Culet Size
Weight Ratio
Durability
Tilt

Finish
Polish
Symmetry