How to Find the Perfect Diamond Shape?
Choosing the right diamond is a journey– and while you might feel a little lost at the beginning, by the end you’ll feel like somewhat of a diamond expert!
Some decisions require a little learning, but one area you can feel confident in your judgment is that of the shape.
The first thing to understand is that the shape of the diamond and its cut are not the same: the cut refers to the stone’s ability to reflect light, while the shape is the basic outline of it. However, just to confuse things, you might see shapes described including a reference to cut – Princess cut, Cushion cut, etc. You can find out more about the cut quality and how to find the perfect diamond
here.
Here’s a look at some of the most popular shapes, and a glimpse at a couple of the more unusual options available.
Round
The most popular of diamond shapes, the round brilliant cut, is just that – round. And there is a reason it is so popular. In creating this shape, because of its inherent symmetry it can be crafted for the maximum amount of light reflection, brilliance and fire.
Danhov CL140 Classico Solitaire Engagement Ring
Princess
The princess cut diamond is ladylike and timelessly elegant. They are square in shape, with linear sides and pointed corners. It is second only to the round cut in popularity, because it combines angularity with high brilliance. Princess cuts provide the cutter with greater yield from the rough leading to lower costs. This makes it a great choice for the shopper looking to maximize their budget.
Vatche 1506 Inara Pave Diamond Engagement Ring for Princess
Oval
An oval cut is more unusual than the previous two but is gaining in popularity. This shape serves to elongate the finger, so is an excellent choice if you’re buying for someone with small hands or shorter fingers.
It is often used as a center stone for a three stone ring or some other design involving side-flanking diamonds. It is worth considering as well that if this a shape you love, it can often be incorporated into settings originally designed for a more traditionally shaped stone.
Simon G. MR1394 Fabled Diamond Wedding Set
Cushion
A cushion cut engagement ring instantly evokes romance and has become increasingly popular in the last few years. They look like squares or rectangles with rounded corners and some are cut with large facets to increase their fire.
They are ideal for a ring that will be worn every day, since there are no sharp edges on this rounded shape, and suits most people. Check out this
Ritani French-set Halo ring for an example of the cushion cut diamond.
Ritani 1RZ1321 French-Set Halo Diamond Engagement Ring
Emerald
Perhaps unsurprisingly, this cut was originally used to cut emeralds, and the shape might remind you of that. Rectangular in shape with step-like facets that produce a subtle and elegant type of fire, with more flash than sparkle.
It was popular in the 20s, so if you are looking for an art deco inspired design, the emerald cut is a popular choice. This
Tacori Dantela Crown ring is a beautiful example.
Tacori 2620ECSM Dantela Crown for Emerald Diamond Engagement Ring
Pear
If you are looking for something a little different, a pear shape diamond will deliver. The elongated design of this diamond cut can make it appear larger than it is, which is a great characteristic in any diamond!
It’s a great shape for a pendant (often called a tear drop), with the point facing up. When put on the finger, it can be worn with pointed end down the finger to accentuate the length of the finger. For example, check out this
Tacori Starlit Pear Bezel Solitaire engagement ring.
Tacori 300-2PR Starlit Pear Bezel Solitaire Engagement Ring
Heart
We can’t end without mentioning the eternally romantic heart-shaped diamond. They are relatively rare, so if you want something unique you are likely to be one of the few people rocking this type of engagement ring. Full of passion and love, this diamond shape can be the perfect embodiment of your relationship.
Custom Heart Diamond Wedding Set
And remember, if you fall in love with a particular shape but it doesn’t appear in the original design of the ring you see online, do not despair! Many designs can be adapted to several different shapes of diamonds, so there is every chance you will be able to create your dream ring.