Diamonds are one of the most popular gemstones in the world. Their brilliance and rarity make them highly coveted and sought after. While most people are familiar with the round brilliant cut, diamonds come in a variety of shapes. In this blog post, we will explore some of the most popular diamond shapes and what makes them unique.
Round Brilliant Cut
The round brilliant cut is the most popular and classic diamond shape. It has a round shape with 58 facets, including a table, crown, girdle, and pavilion. This cut is designed to maximise the diamond's brilliance and fire, making it sparkle in any light. The round brilliant cut is a versatile shape that works well in any style of jewellery.
Oval Cut
The oval cut is a classic diamond shape that is similar to the round brilliant cut but with an elongated shape. It has 56 to 58 facets, depending on the cutter's preference, and has a slimming effect on the finger. The oval cut is a popular choice for those who want a classic look with a twist and works well in both solitaire and halo settings.
Cushion Cut
Cushion cut diamonds have a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, similar to a pillow, hence the name "cushion cut." They typically have 58 facets, with a combination of brilliant-cut facets and step-cut facets, giving them a unique appearance. Many couples prefer the cushion cut because of its vintage appeal and unique shape. With modern technology, cushion cut diamonds can now be cut to have the same brilliance as a round cut while retaining the soft, romantic feel of the cushion shape.
Princess Cut
The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond that is known for its brilliance and modern look. It has a unique design with sharp corners and 76 facets, which allow it to sparkle more than traditional square-shaped diamonds. The princess cut is a popular choice for engagement rings and works well in both solitaire and halo settings.
Radiant Cut
The Radiant cut diamond is a rectangular or square-shaped diamond with trimmed corners and faceted pavilions and crowns. It has a total of 70 facets, with a combination of step-cut and brilliant-cut facets. The trimmed corners help to protect the diamond from chipping, making it a durable option for daily wear. One of the benefits of the Radiant cut is its versatility. It looks great in many different settings, from modern to vintage, and can complement different styles and personalities.
Asscher Cut
The Asscher cut diamond is a square or rectangular-shaped diamond with step-cut facets. The Asscher cut was originally called the "square emerald cut" and is often compared to the emerald cut due to its step-cut facets. However, the Asscher cut has a higher crown, smaller table, and larger facets, giving it more brilliance and fire than the emerald cut. One of the unique features of the Asscher cut is its "hall of mirrors" effect. When you look into an Asscher cut diamond, you can see multiple reflections of the same image, creating a mesmerising effect. This effect is due to the diamond's high crown and deep pavilion, which reflects the light in a distinctive way.
Heart Cut
The heart cut is a romantic and whimsical diamond shape that is perfect for engagement rings and gifts. It has 56 to 58 facets and a distinctive heart shape. The heart cut is a challenging shape to cut, making it a rare and sought-after diamond shape.
In conclusion, diamond shapes are as varied and unique as the individuals who wear them. When choosing a diamond shape, consider your personal style, lifestyle, and budget. Whether you prefer classic and timeless or modern and unique, there is a diamond shape that is perfect for you.
Emerald Cut
The emerald cut is a rectangular-shaped diamond that is known for its elegant and sophisticated look. It has a step-cut design with long facets that create a hall of mirrors effect. This cut emphasises the diamond's clarity and is often used in higher quality stones. The emerald cut is a popular choice for vintage-style engagement rings and works well in both solitaire and three-stone settings.
Pear Cut
The pear cut is a combination of the round brilliant and marquise cut, with a teardrop shape. It has 56 to 58 facets and is known for its feminine and elegant look. The pear cut is a popular choice for those who want a unique and versatile diamond shape and works well in both solitaire and halo settings.
Marquise Cut
The marquise cut is an elongated diamond shape that is known for its unique football-like shape. It has 56 to 58 facets and is designed to maximise the diamond's brilliance and fire. The marquise cut is a popular choice for those who want a unique and elegant look and works well in both solitaire and three-stone settings.
Trillion Cut
The trillion cut diamond is a triangular-shaped diamond with three pointed corners and curved or straight sides. The cut is designed to maximise the diamond's light reflection and dispersion, giving it a stunning sparkle and radiance. The pointed corners of the trillion cut can also make the diamond appear larger than it actually is, making it a popular choice for engagement rings.
Baguette Cut
The baguette cut diamond is a rectangular-shaped diamond with step-cut facets. Baguette cut diamonds can be either long and narrow or wider and more square-shaped. The step-cut facets of the diamond give it a sleek and elegant appearance, making it a popular choice for channel settings or as accent stones in jewellery designs.