How to Play the Diamond on a Billiards Table

All billiard and pool table construction results in a piece of equipment with identical respective dimensions. The length always equals twice the width. As perfect rectangles, certain geometric consistencies exist on every table. During the construction and manufacturing process of a billiard table, small diamonds or dots get inlaid into the frame of the table at specific and intentional locations along the side rails. These diamonds are not just for decoration; they serve to aid you in properly aiming certain shots during the course of your game. By understanding the geometry behind the angles created with the diamonds, called the “diamond system,” and how the rails will reflect the cue ball or object ball, you can significantly improve the quality of your game and your chances of winning.

Instructions

    • 1

      Examine the layout of the balls on the table. If your opponent's object balls block the path of the cue ball to your own balls, a kick shot off the rail will be necessary. Conversely, if one of your opponent’s balls blocks the path of your object ball, a bank shot off the rail will be necessary.

    • 2

      Determine the appropriate diamond. Look at the rail opposite from the spot where you want your shot to end up; find the diamond that will result in the proper reflection of a kicked cue ball or banked object ball.

    • 3

      Properly strike the cue ball. Using smooth and steady strokes, with no English, hit the cue ball into the rail at the precise spot in front of the correct diamond to reflect it successfully toward your chosen object ball. To play a bank shot, hit the cue ball into the object ball, aiming the object ball at the spot on the rail in front of the correct diamond to result in a proper angle.