Before investing in a diamond, it’s essential to evaluate its price, quality, and aesthetic appeal. The ‘four Cs’—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—are critical in determining a diamond’s quality. However, choosing a diamond that aligns with your taste and style can be challenging due to its various unique characteristics. Whether you’re drawn to the historical allure of vintage jewelry, a dazzling pendant, or an exquisite diamond ring, the shape of the diamond is a crucial consideration during your selection.
Popular Diamond Shapes
Choosing the right diamond shape is a fundamental step whether you’re shopping for yourself or planning a significant proposal. A diamond’s shape refers to its outline and is a primary feature that sets it apart visually. Below are the ten most sought-after diamond shapes, along with their distinct qualities to help you refine your options.
The round cut diamond is celebrated for its unmatched brilliance, thanks to its symmetrical 360-degree shape which maximizes light reflection. This versatility makes it the most favored shape, especially for engagement rings. Globally, round cut diamonds represent about 75% of all diamond sales, typically featuring 58 facets, with 33 on the crown.
Princess Cut Diamond
Introduced in 1980, the princess cut diamond is recognized by its 90-degree corners and square or rectangular profile. Its classic appeal makes it a popular choice for engagement rings. The princess cut is also one of the most efficient cuts, allowing two diamonds to be fashioned from the same rough stone. It generally has 50 to 58 facets and offers a lower price-per-carat than round cuts, making it a great choice if you desire the brilliance of a round cut with a square shape.
Oval Diamond
An oval cut diamond has an elongated shape that makes the stone appear larger. Ideal for those with an active lifestyle, its rounded edges minimize snagging. If you’re looking for a diamond that combines tradition with a modern twist, the oval shape might be perfect for you. Be mindful of the bow-tie effect, which can indicate a less than perfect cut but is sometimes desired for its unique look.
Marquise Diamond
The marquise cut diamond, similar in elongation to the oval but with pointed ends, resembles an ellipse. This shape maximizes the crown surface area, making the diamond appear larger. Originating in the 18th century from a commission by King Louis XV of France, who desired a stone shaped like the lips of his mistress, it emphasizes symmetry, ensuring the points align precisely for a balanced setting.
Heart-Shaped Diamond
Epitomizing love, the heart-shaped diamond has a unique and romantic form. Symmetry is crucial, as any discrepancy in size between the halves can distort the stone’s heart shape. This diamond comes in various sizes, catering to different budgets.
Emerald Cut Diamond
Dating back to the 16th century, the emerald cut diamond features a rectangular shape with parallel step facets along the sides, enhancing the stone’s optical appearance to seem larger. Known for its hall-of-mirrors effect, the emerald cut is particularly striking in a solitaire setting.
Pear-Shaped Diamond
Combining elements of round and marquise cuts, the pear-shaped diamond, reminiscent of a teardrop, offers unique versatility and brilliance. It can be oriented upwards or downwards, providing two distinct looks, making it a popular modern choice.
Asscher Cut Diamond
The Asscher cut diamond, designed in 1902 by Joseph Asscher, has cropped corners similar to the emerald cut but with a square shape. Its larger-cut step facets and a smaller crown heighten its brilliance, making it a favored choice for Art Deco jewelry.
Cushion Cut Diamond
With a history spanning over 200 years, the cushion cut diamond combines a square shape with rounded corners, resembling a pillow. Less brilliant than round cuts, it excels in showcasing colors under light. Its vintage appeal has made it highly prized among antique collectors.
Radiant Diamond
A mix of emerald and round cut features, the radiant diamond was crafted in 1997 by Henry Grossbard. It shines with an array of facets that produce a captivating sparkle and is ideal for those seeking an extraordinary gemstone.
Understanding these distinctive shapes will assist in identifying the perfect diamond that reflects your personality. Our quiz below can help further pinpoint which cut is ideal for you.
How to Choose a Diamond: Which Cut Suits You?
With numerous diamonds available, recognizing your preferred shapes can simplify your shopping experience. Visit Invaluable for a broad selection of stones and jewelry, including items from renowned designers like Bulgari and Cartier, and unique antique pieces sure to capture your heart.
