What is bearding on a diamond?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Bearding, also called girdle fringes, refers to tiny hairline cracks or feathers that run from the girdle into the surface of a diamond, giving the girdle edge a slightly fuzzy or fringed appearance under magnification. It is most often caused by the polishing process if the stone is cut too aggressively or with too much friction, and is most visible when the girdle is examined at the side. Slight bearding has minimal effect on a diamond's durability or appearance, but heavy bearding can weaken the girdle and lower the clarity grade.
Frequently asked questions
- How does bearding affect a diamond's clarity grade?
- Minor bearding may be noted on a grading report without significantly affecting the grade. More pronounced bearding, sometimes described as heavy bearding, can lower the clarity grade and in severe cases affects the structural integrity of the girdle edge.
- Can bearding be removed from a diamond?
- A cutter can re-polish the girdle to remove minor bearding, though this will reduce the carat weight and may affect the proportions slightly. For heavy bearding, a full recut might be needed.
- Is bearding a problem in everyday wear?
- Slight bearding is very common and, in practice, causes no issues for a ring worn normally. It is only visible under magnification, and a lightly beareded girdle does not make a diamond more fragile in everyday use. Heavy bearding is worth having assessed.
Designing a ring
Talk through bearding with us
Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.
Contact the studio