Which term describes the process of dividing rough diamond along its cleavage planes?

Which term describes the process of dividing rough diamond along its cleavage planes?

• A. Dop
• B. Cleaving
• C. Rose Cut
• D. Planner

Answer: (B)

Cleaving is splitting a rough diamond along its natural planes of weakness in the crystal structure. Diamonds have specific cleavage planes, often along the {111} directions, where the lattice cleaves more readily. By delivering a precise, controlled strike along one of these planes, a cutter can divide the rough into pieces with minimal waste, setting up for subsequent shaping. This is different from sawing or grinding, which cut material by removing it rather than exploiting a natural fracture plane. The other terms relate to holding the stone or to a particular antique cut, not the act of dividing along the planes.

Cleaving is splitting a rough diamond along its natural planes of weakness in the crystal structure. Diamonds have specific cleavage planes, often along the {111} directions, where the lattice cleaves more readily. By delivering a precise, controlled strike along one of these planes, a cutter can divide the rough into pieces with minimal waste, setting up for subsequent shaping. This is different from sawing or grinding, which cut material by removing it rather than exploiting a natural fracture plane. The other terms relate to holding the stone or to a particular antique cut, not the act of dividing along the planes.