AGS Gives Online Access to Cut Grade System information
June 30, 05
In a move to meet strong demand for its Cut Grade System information the American Gem Society (AGS) has launched a special, trade only, secure section on its website, featuring the cutting chart guidelines for the new system as well as a presentation explaining the methodology behind the system.
The secure section requires registration, and is restricted to members of the trade. However, the main website, which is still open to the public, has been updated to feature basic information on the Cut Grade, such as an expanded Frequently Asked Questions section, and provides images of the new documents as well.
At the start of this month, the AGS said it would provide free facet arrangement templates for the new AGS cut grade system to non-contact measuring device manufacturers, including
Manufacturers with a patented cut who want AGS Laboratories to issue a facet arrangement template to the non-contact measuring device companies can send a line drawing illustration of the stone, along with the patent number and country of issue, to AGS.
AGS Labs began issuing Diamond Quality Documents on the new princess cut on May 1, and on June 1 began grading under the new system for round brilliant cuts.
The new Cut Grade System moves AGS from a proportions-based methodology to one founded in performance. In the new system, all facets of the diamond are measured in three dimensions rather than two dimensions. Using state-of-the-art technology, the AGS measures a diamond using a ray tracing computer program that traces light rays traveling through a gem. The program shows the quantity and quality of the light being returned to the viewer.