When it comes to selecting the perfect gemstone or diamond, the options can be overwhelming. Not only do you need to consider the type of setting that suits your style, but you also have to choose from a wide range of cuts and shapes. To help make the decision-making process easier, we’ve broken down the most common gemstone and diamond shapes, as well as how they affect the stone’s sparkle.
By reading on, you’ll be able to determine whether you prefer a more contemporary approach or stick with a classic look.
A Guide to Diamond Cuts and Shapes
Cut vs Shape
The shape of a diamond refers to its overall outline, while the cut encompasses its proportions, polish, and facets – elements that significantly impact how the stone appears when worn. The more facets a diamond possesses, the greater the light refraction, resulting in increased brilliance and sparkle. Cut is one of the fourCs that influence the value of a diamond, along with colour, clarity, and carat.
Round
The iconic round diamond shape is a timeless favorite among gem enthusiasts due to its remarkable ability to refract light and showcase dazzling sparkle effects. Its unique faceting pattern allows for mesmerizing displays of light, which seems to dance across its surface as it catches the eye.
Oval
This classic oval-cut diamond exudes timeless elegance, offering wearers a radiant appearance that rivals the luminosity of a round-cut gem. Its symmetrical shape ensures a consistent brilliance and shine, making it an enduringly popular choice for those seeking a sophisticated and understated look.
Marquise
The Marquise cut is a unique diamond shape that adds an extra layer of drama. Its elongated, oval form tapers off at both ends, giving it a striking appearance that can create the illusion of longer fingers. While round cut diamonds are often in high demand, the Marquise cut is less sought after, making it a more affordable option for those looking to make a bigger statement with their diamond purchase.
In fact, Marquise cut diamonds are typically priced lower than round cut diamonds of the same carat weight, as gem cutters can create larger cuts from the same amount of raw material.
Pear
The pear-cut diamond’s unique charm stems from its fusion of the Marquise and oval cuts. By combining the curvaceous silhouette of the oval with the pointed tip reminiscent of the Marquise, the teardrop shape emerges as a captivating visual effect. This design is further enhanced by the photograph taken by Commins & Co.
Princess
A sleek and stylish choice for the modern bride, princess-cut diamonds boast a unique combination of angular lines and inverted pyramidal design, setting them apart from other diamond cuts. With their contemporary feel, it’s no wonder they’re a popular pick among brides seeking to make a statement with their engagement ring.
Cushion
For those who crave a square silhouette with a hint of softness, the timeless appeal of a classic cushion-cut gemstone makes it an excellent choice. Its unique blend of angularity and rounded edges creates a visually striking combination that is sure to captivate.
Emerald
When it comes to making a statement with diamonds, few cuts can rival the allure of an emerald cut. The unique characteristics of this style set it apart from others, as the straight facets create a mesmerizing effect that filters and shines light in a way that’s simply captivating.
Baguette
While some may initially mistake an emerald cut for a baguette cut due to their similar rectangular silhouettes, a closer inspection reveals distinct differences between the two. The emerald cut’s refined appearance is characterized by polished right-angled corners, whereas its counterpart, the baguette cut, is distinguished by sharp, pointed corners that lend it a more edgy feel.
Radiant
The radiant cut boasts a distinctively rectangular shape, reminiscent of its more traditional counterparts. What sets it apart, however, is the abundance of facets that have been meticulously polished to perfection, imbuing the gemstone with an added layer of irresistible sparkle.
Asscher
Asscher-cut diamonds, also known as square emerald cuts, are characterized by their unique stepped square shape and clipped corners. This distinctive design gives the diamond a modern and sleek appearance that sets it apart from other popular cuts.
Heart
The heart shape cut is a must-have for any romantic. This iconic design combines with the mesmerizing sparkle of diamonds to create a show-stopping gemstone that’s sure to make a lasting impression. With its signature swooping curves and dazzling brilliance, it’s no wonder this cut has captured the hearts of many.
Trilliant or Trillion
While traditional shapes like squares, circles, and rectangles may not be your cup of tea, a trillion-cut diamond could be the perfect choice for those who crave something unique. The triangular shape of this cut presents an intriguing combination of curved and uncurved sides that refract light with mesmerizing brilliance. For more expert guidance on finding the ideal engagement ring, we recommend exploring our comprehensive resource: 15 Must-Read Engagement Ring Shopping Tips.
