Diamonds come in many different shapes. Below you will find a list of popular diamond shapes and their characteristics.
The Round Diamond, or Brilliant Cut Diamond
The round cut diamond is the most popular diamond cut for engagement and wedding rings. It is cone shaped to maximize the light returned through the top of the diamond. For hundreds of years diamond cutters have been working with this cut to maximize its brilliance and fire. This cut has 33 facets on the crown, and 25 on the pavillion; 58 facets altogether. Selecting a higher quality grade brings out the most brilliance of a round cut diamond.
The Princess Cut Diamond
The princess cut diamonds are exceptionally brilliant because of the way they are cut. They are also available in two shapes; rectangular and square. This cut is very unique, complimenting the clarity of the diamond and making it appear very clear. Because of the cut, princess cut diamonds display color in the corners of the diamond as well as in the center.
The Cushion Cut Diamond
At times called a pillow cut, this romantic, antique cut is a classic. With 58 large facets and rounded corners to reflect light, this diamond cut has exceptional brilliance and clarity. The cushion cut diamond is also available in square and rectangular shapes.
The Marquise Cut Diamond
The marquise cut diamond is an elongated diamond cut, giving the appearance of a larger stone. It also gives the appearance of longer and more slender fingers and hands. It is a classic shape for engagement rings. With all “fancy cut” diamonds, color and clarity are this diamond cut’s most important characteristics. Its cutting process is similar to that of round cut diamonds, with the diamond cutter maximizing the carat weight of the stone by lengthening it into a boat shape. This cut also serves to eliminate most inclusions the rough diamond may have.
The Emerald Cut Diamond
The emerald cut features a large rectangular table which uniquely showcases a diamond’s clarity. However, it also makes inclusions and diamond color more apparent. This is an original cut showcasing facets step-cut into the diamond’s pavilion. Step-cuts were used only on emerald gems in the past, thus the name “emerald cut”.
The Radiant Cut Diamond
An original style with uniquely trimmed corners, this cut combines lines of an emerald cut with the brilliance of a round diamond. This results in a non-traditional or modern, yet brilliant diamond. This diamond is nicely complemented when set with side stones featuring different diamond cuts.
Pear Shaped Diamond Cut
This teardrop or pear shape cut is a combination of two diamond cuts; the traditional round cut and the marquise cut. It features 58 facets cut much like that of the traditional round brilliant cut. A less common diamond cut, it features a slender shape, accentuating a slimmer appearance to the fingers and hands, creating a softer, more delicate look. Look for overall symmetry when choosing your pear shape diamond.
Oval Cut Diamond
A modified version of the classic round brilliant cut, it features a classic appearance with a modern flare. Unique as it is stylish, this cut also elongates fingers and hands with its cut length. This choice of stone make it easy to match and wear other jewelry items.
Asscher Cut Diamond
Often mistaken for an emerald cut because of its similar style, this diamond cut features a step-cut process with cropped corners. At first glance it appears octagonal, but it is actually a square shape. This diamond cut exhibits immense clarity, allowing one to see through the entire stone. However, inclusions are also visible to the naked eye. First cut in the 1920s, the asscher cut is once again very popular.
