When shopping for diamonds, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is choosing the right diamond shape. A diamond’s shape significantly influences the overall appearance of the piece, whether it’s an engagement ring, earrings, or a necklace. In this diamond shapes guide, we’ll explore the various shapes available and help you understand which one might be the perfect choice for your next jewelry purchase.
What Are the Different Diamond Shapes?
The first thing to know when navigating the world of diamonds is that “shape” refers to the overall form of the diamond, while the “cut” refers to how the stone is crafted to enhance its brilliance. There are several popular diamond shapes that are commonly seen in fine jewelry, each with its own unique characteristics. From the classic round to the more modern oval and pear shapes, understanding these options will guide you in selecting the perfect diamond.
Round diamonds are the most well-known and widely chosen shape. Due to their symmetrical appearance, they are ideal for showcasing the diamond’s brilliance. As a result, round diamonds are often used in engagement rings. However, they may be more expensive compared to other shapes because of their popularity and the higher amount of waste produced during the cutting process.
Round Brilliant Diamond Shape
The round brilliant diamond is the most traditional and timeless option, making it a classic choice for many buyers. Its 58 facets are specifically designed to maximize sparkle and brilliance, making it a perfect choice if you want a diamond that stands out. The round shape is versatile and can be incorporated into a variety of jewelry settings, making it ideal for engagement rings, necklaces, and earrings.
Round diamonds are particularly known for their ability to reflect light, which contributes to their overall sparkle. Whether you’re purchasing a solitaire engagement ring or creating a custom design, the round brilliant diamond will always make a statement. This shape is highly sought after, not only for its aesthetics but also for its longevity in fashion trends.
Princess Cut Diamond Shape
Princess cut diamonds are the second most popular shape for engagement rings, and for good reason. The princess cut offers the brilliance of the round diamond but with a unique square or rectangular shape. Its sharp corners and geometric appearance lend a modern, sophisticated look to any piece of jewelry.
One of the advantages of the princess cut diamond is its versatility in design. Whether you prefer a more contemporary setting or a traditional one, a princess cut diamond can adapt to various styles. This diamond shape is a great option for someone looking for a bold, edgy look while still enjoying the brilliance and sparkle of a high-quality diamond.
Oval Cut Diamond Shape
The oval cut diamond is a popular choice for those seeking a more elongated and elegant appearance. This shape features a brilliant cut, so it offers excellent sparkle, much like the round diamond. However, its elongated form can make the finger appear longer and more slender, which is why it is often chosen for engagement rings.
Oval diamonds are also highly versatile and can be paired with a variety of settings, such as halo or solitaire rings. They provide the brilliance of the round diamond while offering a more unique and sophisticated shape. Oval diamonds are a great option if you’re looking for a shape that combines traditional sparkle with a modern twist.
Emerald Cut Diamond Shape
If you’re drawn to a more understated and elegant look, the emerald cut diamond may be the perfect choice for you. This shape features long, straight facets that create a hall-of-mirrors effect, which results in a diamond that showcases clarity and color over sparkle. The emerald cut is often preferred by those who appreciate a vintage or art deco style.
While emerald cut diamonds do not sparkle as much as round or oval diamonds due to their unique faceting, they have a distinct charm and sophistication. The shape allows light to travel through the diamond in a way that highlights its clarity, so it’s ideal for diamonds with fewer inclusions and excellent color. If you’re looking for something unique and refined, the emerald cut is an excellent option.
Pear Shape Diamond
The pear shape is a combination of the round and marquise shapes, creating a teardrop-like silhouette. This shape is known for its elongated appearance, which can make the fingers look longer and more slender. The pear shape is often used in elegant jewelry designs, particularly for engagement rings, pendants, and earrings.
Pear-shaped man made diamonds offer a lot of versatility in design and can be set in a variety of ways. Whether you prefer a halo setting or a classic solitaire, the pear shape will always add a touch of sophistication to the piece. For someone who wants a diamond with a distinct shape that still maintains brilliance, the pear shape is a perfect choice.
Cushion Cut Diamond Shape
The cushion cut diamond is a vintage-inspired shape that combines the brilliance of a round diamond with the softer, rounded corners of a square diamond. This shape has been around for centuries and is often referred to as a “pillow cut” due to its soft, rounded edges.
Cushion cut diamonds are known for their romantic appeal and can be found in a variety of settings, from vintage to modern. They typically display more of a warm, softer glow compared to other shapes, making them a great option for someone who loves a vintage or antique style. Cushion cut diamonds are often selected for engagement rings due to their timeless beauty and elegant charm.
Radiant Cut Diamond Shape
Radiant cut diamonds are a hybrid of the emerald and princess cuts, offering the brilliance of a round diamond with the clean, angular lines of a rectangular or square shape. This shape is known for its sparkle, and it can be found in both square and rectangular forms. The radiant cut diamond has 70 facets, allowing for maximum light reflection.
This diamond shape is ideal for those looking for a modern, sparkling diamond with a unique silhouette. Whether you choose a square or rectangular radiant cut, this shape will always bring a dazzling level of brilliance to any jewelry design. Radiant cut diamonds are often chosen for engagement rings, where the diamond’s sparkle is sure to capture attention.
Marquise Cut Diamond Shape
The marquise cut diamond is an elongated oval shape with pointed ends, which makes it a highly distinctive and elegant option. Its unique shape is designed to create the illusion of a larger diamond, making it an excellent choice for someone looking for a bigger appearance at a more affordable price point.
Marquise diamonds are popular for engagement rings due to their elongated shape and dramatic appearance. The shape of the marquise cut also allows for a high level of brilliance and fire, as the facets are designed to reflect light in all directions. The marquise shape is perfect for those who want a striking, unconventional design.
Conclusion: Choosing the Right Diamond Shape for You
When selecting a diamond for your jewelry, it’s essential to understand the different shapes available and how each one will impact the overall appearance of your piece. From the classic round brilliant to the elegant pear shape and the modern radiant cut, each diamond shape has its own unique characteristics that can enhance the beauty of your jewelry. Ultimately, the best diamond shape for you will depend on your personal preferences, style, and the overall look you want to achieve. By using this diamond shapes guide, you can make an informed decision that will lead to a stunning and timeless piece of jewelry.