It might seem excessive but rough diamonds are actually classified into over 12,000 different categories based on shape, colour, clarity, and carat. It takes a discerning eye to see the difference but it doesn’t mean one shape is better than the other. Embrace life’s little imperfections.

Here is just a selection of a few commonly occurring diamond crystal structures:

Just like human individuals, no two diamonds look alike – nor do they travel alone. When a family of diamonds is found, their shapes usually resemble each other, but from mine to mine there is a great difference in the shapes found.

The regularity of the inner atomic structure of diamonds – the perfect symmetrical cubic system – is the reason for the great hardness of the precious stones.

Rough diamonds in their natural octahedral, maclé or cubic shapes are unique and individual, each with their own singular voice. The different shapes result from differing external circumstances – for example a difference in pressure, temperature or depth of creation.

These differing circumstances are the reason for the very comprehensive system of no less than 12,000 – 14,000 categories.

The possibilities are endless. Rough diamonds appear in an infinite number of sizes and shapes.

Diamond crystallizes in the cubic system and its crystalline shapes are numerous, the principal ones are: Octahedron, dodecahedron, cube, rhombododecahedron.

An octahedron diamond looks like a double pyramid, named after its eight faces, looking like two pyramids put together base against base.

Maclés are triangular-shaped diamonds. Traces of trigons in either positive or negative relief – formed by natural chemical etchings – add further personality to the stones.

Finally, there are the shapes that defy any kind of order. Working with these irregular, asymmetrical beauties requires an individual approach, accessing the possibilities in the stones that no one else are able to handle.

Maya relies on her eye for detail and experience to handpick the diamonds that are special enough to love just the way they are. Instead of tampering with Mother Nature, Maya creates a base for the diamond in the rough. 

Only the finest and most unique uncut diamonds enter into a perfectly imperfect piece of jewellery.