Diamonds are one of the most coveted and valuable gemstones in the world, and their beauty and brilliance are determined by a variety of factors, including their cut. The diamond shape refers to the cut, proportions, symmetry, and polish, and it is one of the most important factors in determining a diamond’s value and beauty.
One of the main reasons why the diamond shape is so important is because it directly affects how much light the diamond reflects and refracts. A well-cut diamond will reflect light from one facet to another and then release it back out of the top of the stone, creating a beautiful and sparkling effect that is known as “fire.” A poorly cut diamond, on the other hand, may leak light out of the bottom or sides of the stone, resulting in a dull and lifeless appearance.
The cut of a diamond also affects its overall shape and style. There are many different diamond shapes to choose from, including round, princess, emerald, pear, and marquise, and each shape has its own unique characteristics and style. For example, round diamonds are classic and timeless, while princess-cut diamonds are modern and edgy.
Choosing the Diamond Shape That’s Right for You
Choosing a diamond shape is a matter of personal preference, but there are a few factors to consider when making your decision:
- Style: The shape of the diamond can affect the overall style of the ring. For example, a round diamond is a classic choice that works well with a traditional or vintage-style ring, while a pear-shaped diamond is more modern and unique.
- Finger size and shape: Certain diamond shapes can flatter certain finger shapes and sizes. For example, elongated diamond shapes like marquise or oval can make fingers appear longer, while round or square-shaped diamonds can complement wider fingers.
- Setting: The type of setting you choose can also affect the diamond shape that works best. For example, a solitaire setting may highlight the beauty of a round diamond, while a halo setting may enhance the brilliance of a square-shaped diamond.
- Budget: The cost of diamonds can vary depending on the shape, size, and quality. Some shapes, such as round and princess, tend to be more expensive than others, while shapes like pear and marquise can be more affordable.
Diamond Shapes – The New, The Traditional, The Beautiful
Round Cut: The round cut is the most popular and classic diamond shape, known for its brilliance and fire. It is also known as the brilliant cut and has 58 facets, making it a sparkling choice for engagement rings and other types of jewelry. The round cut is versatile and looks beautiful in any setting, making it a timeless and traditional choice.
- Classic and timeless appearance
- High degree of brilliance and sparkle
- Versatile and looks beautiful in any setting
Princess Cut: The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond cut that has sharp corners and a brilliant cut. It is the second most popular diamond shape after the round cut and is a popular choice for engagement rings. The princess cut has a modern and elegant appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want a contemporary twist on a traditional diamond shape.
- Modern and elegant appearance
- High degree of brilliance and sparkle
- Popular choice for engagement rings
Emerald Cut: The emerald cut has a rectangular shape with truncated corners and fewer facets than the round cut. It is known for its elegant and sophisticated appearance and is often used in high-end jewelry. The emerald cut has a unique appearance that appeals to many people, making it a popular choice for those who want something different from traditional diamond shapes.
- Elegant and sophisticated appearance
- Unique and different from traditional diamond shapes
- Popular choice for high-end jewelry
Cushion Cut: The cushion cut, also known as the pillow cut, has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners. It has larger facets and a softer appearance than the princess cut, making it popular for vintage-style engagement rings. The cushion cut has a classic and romantic appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want a traditional yet unique diamond shape.
- Classic and romantic appearance
- Soft and elegant appearance
- Popular choice for vintage-style engagement rings
Oval Cut: The oval cut is a popular choice for engagement rings and other types of jewelry. It has an elongated shape with rounded ends and a brilliant cut. The oval cut has a modern and sophisticated appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want a unique diamond shape that is still classic.
- Modern and sophisticated appearance
- Elongated shape that makes fingers appear longer
- Popular choice for engagement rings
Pear Shaped Cut: The pear shaped cut has a teardrop shape with a rounded end and a pointed end. It has a brilliant cut and is often used as a center stone in engagement rings. The pear shaped cut is unique and offers a modern twist on traditional diamond cuts, making it a popular choice for those who want something different and stylish.
- Unique and stylish appearance
- Teardrop shape that symbolizes tears of joy
- Popular choice for engagement rings
Marquise Cut: The marquise cut has an elongated shape with pointed ends and a brilliant cut. It has a high degree of brilliance and sparkle, making it popular for engagement rings. The marquise cut is versatile and can be used in different types of jewelry, making it a popular choice for those who want a classic yet unique diamond shape.
- Elongated shape that makes fingers appear longer
- High degree of brilliance and sparkle
- Versatile and can be used in different types of jewelry
Heart-Shaped Cut: The heart-shaped cut is a romantic and unique diamond cut that has a heart shape with a brilliant cut. It is often used in engagement rings and is a popular choice for Valentine’s Day gifts. The heart-shaped cut is a symbol of love and affection, making it a popular choice for those who want a sentimental and unique diamond shape.
- Romantic and sentimental appearance
- Unique and different from traditional diamond shapes
- Popular choice for Valentine’s Day gifts
Radiant Cut: The radiant cut is a rectangular or square-shaped diamond cut with a brilliant cut. It has 70 or more facets, giving it a high degree of brilliance and sparkle. The radiant cut is versatile and can be used in different types of jewelry, making it a popular choice for those who want a modern and unique diamond shape.
- High degree of brilliance and sparkle
- Versatile and can be used in different types of jewelry
- Modern and unique appearance
Asscher Cut: The Asscher cut has a square shape with step-cut facets and a high crown. It has a distinctive and unique appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want something different from traditional diamond shapes. The Asscher cut has a vintage and art deco feel, making it a popular choice for those who want a classic yet unique diamond shape.
- Vintage and art deco appearance
- Unique and different from traditional diamond shapes
- Popular choice for those who want a classic yet unique diamond shape
Rose Cut: The rose cut is a vintage diamond cut that dates back to the 16th century. It has a flat bottom and a dome-shaped top with triangular facets. The rose cut has a unique and romantic appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want a vintage and sentimental diamond shape.
- Vintage and sentimental appearance
- Unique and different from traditional diamond shapes
- Popular choice for those who want a vintage and romantic diamond shape
Kite Cut: The kite cut is a relatively new diamond shape that has become popular in recent years. It is a unique shape with pointed corners and a diamond-shaped outline. The kite cut has a modern and edgy appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want a diamond shape that is different from traditional shapes.
- Unique and different from traditional diamond shapes
- Modern and edgy appearance
- Popular choice for those who want a diamond shape that stands out
Scissor Cut: The scissor cut is a unique diamond shape that has a step-cut design with parallel lines. It is a rare and unusual diamond shape that has a modern and artistic appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want a diamond shape that is different and unique.
- Rare and unusual diamond shape
- Modern and artistic appearance
- Popular choice for those who want a diamond shape that is different and unique
Radiant Cushion Cut: The radiant cushion cut is a combination of two popular diamond shapes – the radiant cut and the cushion cut. It has a square shape with rounded corners and a brilliant cut, giving it a high degree of brilliance and sparkle. The radiant cushion cut has a modern and unique appearance, making it a popular choice for those who want a diamond shape that is both classic and modern.
- Combination of two popular diamond shapes
- High degree of brilliance and sparkle
- Classic and modern appearance
In Conclusion
In conclusion, there are many different diamond shapes available, each with its unique appearance and character. From traditional classic cuts like the round and princess cut to newer cuts like the kite and scissor cut, there is a diamond shape for every taste and style. When choosing a diamond shape, it’s important to consider the pros of each one, including their brilliance, sparkle, uniqueness, and versatility. Whether you opt for a classic or modern diamond shape, a diamond is a timeless and precious gemstone that will always be a symbol of love and beauty.
We have thousands of loose diamonds in stock and would love to help you find the perfect diamond shape for your next ring, earring, bracelet, or necklace! Just contact us to make an appointment with Sergio, Keifer, or Jay! We look forward to helping you find just what you are looking for to suit your lifestyle, budget, needs, and – most importantly – wants.
