Diamonds

Diamond cutting is the practice of changing a diamond from a rough stone into a faceted gem, and is both an art and a science. Cutting diamonds requires specialized knowledge, tools, equipment, and techniques because of its extreme difficulty. Diamonds are cut to maximize their value. A diamond is shaped to retain it's weight and to best exhibit it's natural beauty. The original shape of the rough stone, and location of the inclusions and flaws to be eliminated are considered before the cutting process even begins.

In God's eye, we are all diamonds. Not coal, not wood, not granite or iron. Gems. Something of great beauty and value.

But we don't all shine the same way. Some of us are still rough, unfinished gems, waiting for the process of chipping, cutting, and polishing that will take off the ugly outer edges and reveal the real beauty underneath. We are placed in the hands of an expert diamantaire, who sees the potential in each raw stone and knows which parts need to be chiseled away and which facets need to be honed to maximize the value of each stone.

Some of us are in the middle of the process- we are taking shape as a jewel and are starting to shine and reflect the light. We are held tightly in the hands of the master cutter as He continues to polish the revealed facets and bring out even more reflective brilliance.

And then there are those rare ones, the exquisite diamonds among us- they're the ones who have patiently gone through all of the cutting, grinding, and polishing and are worthy to be showpieces in our Father's kingdom. They are the ones who, when dropped among the unpolished gems, sparkle and shine.