| abstract |
A non-ablative laser machining method and apparatus for cutting facets of a diamond, using a material machining technique involving filamentation by burst ultrafast laser pulses well suited to mass production. Coupled with 3D modeling and the computerized laser machining system, complex geometric surfaces can be created on the diamond. The facets of the diamond need not be planar in configuration, and may incorporate acute as well as oblique angles. This method minimizes the need for diamond polishing, speeds up production, and realizes great reductions in the quantity of lost material from the cutting process. |