Crushed ice diamonds look exactly how they sound. They have the appearance of broken or crushed ice or glass.
But are they really fragmented diamonds? Absolutely not! They’re 100% real, authentic diamonds cut to resemble crushed ice.
Let’s look a bit closer at this less popular, but still trendy diamond.
What is a Crushed Ice Diamond?
A crushed ice diamond is basically a type of cushion cut diamond that looks like crushed or broken glass. No other gemstone shape features the crushed ice diamond cut. At least not yet.
This lesser known diamond type has been gaining popularity over the past few years, especially with individuals looking to break from the traditional round brilliant diamond style.
Related: Top Diamond Styles of 2020
Traditional Cushion Cut vs a Crushed Ice Cushion Cut
So how do the two cuts differ if they are both technically cushion cuts?
Cushion Cut
The cushion was originally based on the older “mine cut” diamond, which was a square cut with round corners. A mine cut diamond has 58 facets, whereas the cushion features 64 facets along with an open cutlet.
This cut is less brilliant than their more popular counterpart – the round brilliant diamond. But the romantic, pillowy form and more affordable price has pushed cushion cuts to the top of most trendy engagement ring lists.
Cushion cuts can present in a few different faceting patterns. For example, cushion cuts can include 4, 6, 8, or 10 main facets.
The most common is the “four main.” The number of “mains” corresponds to the number of large facets that intersect at the cutlet. These usually like triangular shapes when looking directly at the diamond face.
See also: Glossary of Diamond Terms
Crushed Ice
The crushed ice diamond cut is a modified cushion cut. There are tons of modified cuts on the market. These modified cuts help reduce diamond waste, which can be a major selling point for consumers.
The crushed ice cushion cut has been modified to eliminate the four central facet look. Diamond cutters create lots of tiny facets instead of several larger ones.
A crushed ice diamond sparkles like a pool of water in the bright son. The unending flashes of light are chaotic, disorderly, and mesmerizing at the same time, whereas regular cushion cut diamonds have larger facets in the center. Larger facets cause less flashes of light.
Tips for Buying Crushed Ice Diamonds
Think a crushed ice diamond ring is for you? Read these tips before making a purchase!
- Opt for an H color grade or better. Crushed ice cuts hold their color better than chunkier, traditional cushion versions.
- Don’t be too concerned with inclusions. Large facets easily show inclusions. The tiny facets of the crushed ice cut mask inclusions.
- Always buy a crushed ice cut in person. It’s hard to get a feel for a crushed iced diamond ring without trying it on and looking at it from different angles. We love the ease of virtual shopping, but skip it for this cut.
- When in doubt, allow a trusted jeweler to help guide the buying experience. We’re here to answer any questions that might arise, and make sure you’re 100% happy with your purchase. A diamond engagement rings is, after all, one of the most important purchases you’ll ever make!
Are Crushed Ice Diamonds a Good Investment?
At the end of the day, it comes down to personal preference! If you love the crushed ice look, you’re going to love this diamond style.
Typically, if you prefer out-side of the box looks, unconventional styles, or want something that represents your unique personality– the crushed ice diamond is a good option.
On the other hand, those that are into more traditional brilliant cuts probably won’t favor this style. The round, brilliant cut or traditional cushion cut is probably a better fit.
If resale value is important, we’d recommend sticking to one of the more classic, conventional cuts. We aren’t saying the crushed ice look won’t be popular in the future, but the more classic cuts have proven themselves timeless over and over.
If you’re in the market for an engagement ring– whether it’s a traditional diamond OR a unique, alternatively cut gemstone– call Jonathan’s Fine Jewelers today to make an appointment and see our beautiful selection. Our in house jewelry designers can help you craft any design you can imagine.
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