What is H & A?

What is H&A (Hearts and Arrows)?

H&A diamonds are a common topic of inquiry for customers when purchasing diamonds: "Is this diamond a Hearts and Arrows one?"

H&A (Hearts and Arrows) diamonds are created through precise and delicate cutting, resulting in a pattern of arrows and hearts that can be viewed through a special scope. When looking from the top of the diamond, you will see 8 arrows, and from the bottom, you will see 8 hearts. Hence the name, "Hearts & Arrows." Having an H&A pattern indicates that the diamond has excellent symmetry, but it does not necessarily mean that the diamond has the best brilliance.

Once the diamond is set in a ring, we can only view the arrows from the top; the hearts cannot be seen because the pavilion is covered by the setting.

Many people mistakenly believe that having an H&A pattern means the diamond has the best brilliance. This is a misconception. To determine a diamond's brilliance, you should consider the Cut grade specified in the GIA certificate. If it is rated as "3 Excellent," then that stone will exhibit the most beautiful brilliance.

Do all 3 Excellent diamonds have H&A?

Not all diamonds with a 3 Excellent cut grade have the Hearts & Arrows pattern.

Conversely, diamonds with a cut grade lower than 3 Excellent can still display the Hearts & Arrows pattern if they possess excellent symmetry.

Although there are many H&A diamonds, their quality varies based on other factors of the diamond 4Cs. The cut directly affects the diamond's brilliance and is one of the most important factors in obtaining a high-quality diamond with beautiful fire.