Cleavage Plane

Term from Diamond Cutting industry explained for recruiters

A cleavage plane is like a natural "grain" in a diamond that shows where it can be most easily split. Think of it like the natural lines in wood that make it easier to split with an axe. Diamond cutters use these natural breaking points to help them shape rough diamonds into beautiful gemstones. Understanding cleavage planes is crucial for diamond cutters because it helps them work safely with the stone and get the best possible results. This knowledge prevents accidental breakage and helps maximize the value of each diamond.

Examples in Resumes

Successfully split over 200 rough diamonds using Cleavage Plane analysis

Trained junior cutters in identifying Cleavage Planes and proper splitting techniques

Increased yield by 15% through precise Cleavage Plane assessment before cutting

Typical job title: "Diamond Cutters"

Also try searching for:

Diamond Cleaver Diamond Cutter Gemstone Cutter Diamond Processing Specialist Diamond Sawyer Gemologist Diamond Manufacturing Expert

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How do you evaluate a rough diamond's cleavage planes to maximize its value?

Expected Answer: A senior diamond cutter should explain how they assess the stone from multiple angles, use special lighting, and consider both the natural cleavage planes and the final desired shape to make decisions that will yield the highest value finished stones.

Q: How do you train others in identifying and working with cleavage planes?

Expected Answer: Should describe their teaching methods, safety protocols, and how they help others understand the relationship between cleavage planes and final stone quality. Should mention hands-on training techniques and supervision methods.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What tools and techniques do you use to identify cleavage planes?

Expected Answer: Should be able to describe the use of specialized lighting, magnification tools, and testing methods to identify natural cleavage planes. Should mention safety procedures and preparation steps.

Q: What are the risks of incorrect cleavage plane identification?

Expected Answer: Should explain how mistakes can lead to stone damage, value loss, and safety hazards. Should discuss their verification process and when to seek second opinions.

Junior Level Questions

Q: What is a cleavage plane and why is it important?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain that cleavage planes are natural splitting points in diamonds and why they matter for cutting. Should demonstrate basic understanding of how this affects cutting decisions.

Q: What safety precautions do you take when working with cleavage planes?

Expected Answer: Should describe basic safety equipment, proper handling procedures, and when to ask for help from more experienced cutters.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic identification of obvious cleavage planes
  • Understanding of diamond crystal structure
  • Basic cutting tool operation
  • Safety procedures knowledge

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Accurate cleavage plane assessment
  • Independent cutting decisions
  • Multiple cutting techniques
  • Quality control procedures

Senior (5+ years)

  • Complex cleaving decisions
  • Training and supervision
  • Maximum yield strategies
  • Advanced problem-solving

Red Flags to Watch For

  • No formal diamond cutting training or certification
  • Lack of hands-on experience with actual diamonds
  • Poor understanding of basic diamond properties
  • Disregard for safety procedures
  • No knowledge of industry grading standards