Why should a diamond be held with tongs?

Due to the oils and dirt present on human fingers, during examination of a diamond gemstone tongs are essential. There are two different ways in which a diamond can be held when using diamond tongs. The first method is called the girdle hold. The tongs clasp the diamond by the girdle which allow for an efficient examination of the diamond's pavilion and the crown. The other method in which a diamond can be held with tongs is called the table hold. This hold is accomplished when one of the tong arms is covering the diamond's table and the other arm is covering the culet. The girdle thus sticks out of the tongs a bit and subsequently allows for the spinning of the diamond along its axis. The diamond gemstone can be spun in this position by gently prodding it with a needle brush. This specific tong hold allows for the most thorough examination of the diamond as it reveals the whole side of the gemstone and the girdle region. In addition, the table hold helps create a "dark field" condition in which all the most minute flaws can be identified due to the diminished brilliance of the diamond.

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