Christmas Tree Cut

The Christmas Tree cut was developed about 20 years ago by George Saltzman, New York, and is no longer widely cut in the United States. It is derived from triangular made that is polished, with grooves depicting the branches of a pine tree. The Christmas Tree is reportedly still being cut in extremely limited quantities in Israel and Belgium.

The cut is primarily sold loose in 50- to 60-pointer sizes, and occasionally as a 1-carat stone. The yield is about 55 percent. Green or blue diamonds are especially desirable for this cut, the latter being a representation of a blue spruce tree. The colored diamonds started out as off-color stones, and achieved their color through irradiation.

MARKETS AND MARKETING
There is a specialized demand for this cut but cutting is limited and the stone is not currently being marketed in a big way. The source listed does include the Christmas Tree cut in a major show guide advertisement and does get orders for it. When not sold loose, the cut is most often mounted as a pendant. Christmas tree farmers have been good customers for this niche stone.

PRICING AND SUPPLY
The rough for this cut is hard to get. There is a small demand for it that is not being met at this time.

WHAT BUYERS SHOULD LOOK FOR
Buyers should look for symmetry and well-executed grooves.