What distinguishes a rough diamond from a polished diamond?

• A. Rough diamonds are uncut and unpolished; polished diamonds are cut and faceted
• B. Rough diamonds are always larger than 5 carats
• C. Rough diamonds are synthetic; polished are natural
• D. Rough diamonds have higher price per carat than polished always

Answer: (A)

The main idea here is the processing stage of the diamond. A rough diamond is the natural crystal as it comes from the mine—uncut and unpolished. A polished diamond has undergone cutting and faceting to create flat surfaces that reflect light, maximizing brilliance and color. The cutting process shapes the stone, decides how many facets it will have, and aims to balance losing as little weight as possible with achieving the best optical performance. That transformation from a raw crystal to a sparkling gem is what truly distinguishes rough from polished.

Other statements don’t fit because the size of rough stones varies widely and isn’t a defining feature; rough can be larger or smaller than 5 carats. Rough can be natural or synthetic, but the term describes the processing stage, not origin. And price per carat isn’t fixed—polished stones generally command higher per-carat prices due to their cut and desirability, but it isn’t an absolute rule in every case.