it
is very evident that none before him had done so on any scientific
basis of geometrical relations. Berquem was not merely a craftsman; he
was an accomplished mathematician, highly versed in optical science,
and he had determined the true angles at which the planes of each facet
should lie in reference to its crystallization and to its size, in
order to make its reflections of light most perfect and its color most
complete.
He
discovered that in the development of the octahedral form there are
certain measurements of relation which must be preserved in the
trimming of the diamond for the perfect reflection of all the light
which enters the crystal. By this scientific formation he completely
changed the basis for estimate of the value of diamonds. Under his
treatment the diamond of largest size and weight was not most valuable,
but the gem which was transcendent as a light producer or reflector and
as a crystal of symmetrical parts. The connoisseur, the artist, and the
thrifty merchant alike have vastly profited by the principles evolved
by Berquem. He raised the craftsmen of his day from the common plane of
gem polishers to the higher position of artists and skilled lapidaries.
The successful lapidary of to-day — to whose cutting is intrusted the
gems of India, Brazil, and Africa — must be a close student of optics
as well as a dexterous stone cutter.
