Diamond Shape Guide
Introduction to Diamond Shapes
The diamond is the centerpiece. These brilliant diamonds give the engagement ring the most character and define its silhouette. They can imbue a modern aesthetic as well as evoke vintage styles, depending on the setting for context. It is crucial to pick the most appropriate diamond shape for your significant other. We at Brockhaus Jewelry have written this handy guide to help you create the engagement ring of your dreams.
Round Cut Diamonds
The round cut is the most common and makes up around 75% of all diamonds sold. This is for good reason, as these are the most brilliant of shapes with around 58 facets. Due to the high demand and the expertise required to make them, these are also the most expensive of diamonds. For those in want of a classic, timeless, and, most of all, brilliant shape, round cut diamonds are perfect. Those in want of a more rare stone should look in another direction, however.
Princess Cut Diamonds
A princess cut diamond has a square shape resembling an upside-down pyramid when looked at from the side. Their clean edges make them excellent for modern, minimalist settings. However, due to their eccentricity, they also look exquisite in floral, vintage settings as well. They are the second most popular diamond cut, as their fantastic modern shape is eye-catching and beautiful. Some rings, like eternity bands, use them in a pavé setting to achieve a unique tile effect. For those who seek a creative and breathtaking shape, the princess cut can work wonders.
Oval Cut Diamonds
Marvelous oval cut diamonds have a slender, elegant shape. They have a sophisticated aesthetic that manages to be unique. Their elongated form also gives them extra surface area, which makes them appear to be incredibly brilliant when viewed from certain angles. An oval cut is especially good for people in search of a radiant ring, but want something more unusual than the classic round. Ovals also look a bit larger than other diamonds of the same carat due to their shape. For adding luminescence, consider a halo or side stone setting to elevate it to a new level.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
Emerald cut diamonds have a rectangular cut and are beloved for the unusual placement of their facets. They are placed longways and allow the viewer to inspect the quality of the diamond more easily. For this reason, it is advised to use an emerald cut only for high-grade diamonds, ideally of a larger-than-average size. Many celebrities, including Beyonce, adore this ring for that very reason. Emerald cut diamonds are rather rare, making up approximately 3% of all diamonds sold. For those in search of a distinctive way to show off a special diamond, an emerald cut is an ideal way.
Pear Shaped Diamonds
Pear shaped diamonds are also known as teardrop diamonds. With a pointed tip and a round bottom, these have a fascinating shape. When used with smaller diamonds, they look larger than they actually are, mostly due to their bottom-heavy shape. This extra brilliance means a little goes a long way. For larger jewels, they have a slender, sophisticated balance that is visually appealing and interesting. Pear shaped diamonds look especially good in solitaire settings, where their gorgeous shape can be best appreciated. People who wish to express themselves through an unorthodox diamond that looks as rare as it actually is will find it through a pear.
Radiant Cut Diamonds
Radiant cut diamonds are notable for their extreme amount of facets. Technically, these are the square modified brilliant diamonds and are, in essence, a squared round shape with trimmed corners. They have over 70 facets that allow them to remain brilliant when viewed in any direction. For added radiance, they can be set in a halo for peerless radiance. They are less expensive than their round brethren, making them a more affordable choice for those in search of the most brilliant possible ring. Their shape is also reminiscent of a princess cut, making them great for people who love the princess’ shape, but would prefer a more luminescent variety.
Cushion Cut Diamonds
Appropriately named, cushion cut stones have a shape reminiscent of a pillow. While far less comfortable than a pillow due to being one of the hardest substances known to humankind, it is nonetheless a beautiful shape. They evoke a classic romance as their rounded edges and long shape give them a charming vintage aesthetic. This shape also helps the diamond retain its color, so it is great for helping colored diamonds project their depth for a longer period of time. Note that clear diamonds can yellow over time as well, the rate of which depends on the inclusions present therein.
