GEMS Education
A Diamond Shape Guide
Apr
When it comes to diamonds, the shape you choose speaks volumes. It’s more than just aesthetics — your diamond’s shape can reflect your personality and style. If you’re on the hunt for a diamond, whether it’s for an engagement ring, a necklace, or a little treat-yourself moment (because why not?), this guide will help you navigate the glittering world of diamond shapes.
From classics to modern cuts, let’s explore the most popular diamond shapes, their unique characteristics, and how to find the one that feels just right for you.
What Is Diamond Shape?
Understanding the shape of a diamond is important for any jewelry buyer since it influences the stone’s style, price, and overall appearance. When you shop for diamonds, you’ll encounter various shapes to choose from, each with its own unique attributes and aesthetic appeal.
From classic round diamonds to fancy shapes like oval, cushion, princess, pear, emerald, marquise, asscher, radiant, and heart-shaped diamonds. Each shape offers unique angles and facets that affect how light is captured and reflected, enhancing the diamond’s natural brilliance and character.
Why Does Diamond Shape Matter?
The shape of a diamond isn’t just about how it looks—it influences the stone’s sparkle, size perception, and even price. Shape refers to the diamond’s outline when viewed from above, and each cut interacts with light differently, creating a unique sparkle and character.
Whether you’re drawn to the fiery brilliance of a round diamond or the vintage charm of a cushion cut, understanding your options can make the buying process smoother and more fun.
Round Brilliant
The round brilliant diamond is the ultimate classic. Its timeless appeal comes from its unmatched brilliance, thanks to its 58 expertly cut facets that maximize light reflection. This is the most popular diamond shape and a favorite for engagement rings.
What Makes It Special?
If you love tradition and drama (in a good way), the round brilliant is for you. Its versatility means it looks stunning in any setting, from classic solitaires to modern halos.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional sparkle.
- Fits any setting and style.
- Timeless elegance.
Cons:
- Higher price per carat due to its popularity and cutting process.
Oval
The oval cut diamond combines the brilliance of a round diamond with an elongated shape, creating a sleek, sophisticated look. It’s a top choice for those who want to stand out subtly.
Why Pick an Oval Cut?
Oval diamonds elongate fingers and create a stunning visual impact without being too showy. Their elongated shape can also make the stone look larger than its carat weight.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Creates a slimming effect on fingers.
- Offers great sparkle and a larger perceived size.
Cons:
- May display a “bow-tie” shadow in the center if not well-cut.
Marquise Cut
The marquise cut diamond has an elongated shape with pointed ends that maximizes carat weight, making it appear larger than it is. Its silhouette has a dramatic, vintage feel that commands attention.
What Makes It Stand Out?
This shape is ideal for those who love bold designs and want their diamond to make a statement. It’s also perfect for elongating fingers and creating a unique, eye-catching look.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Appears larger than other shapes of the same carat weight.
- Elongates fingers beautifully.
Cons:
- Prone to chipping at the pointed ends.
- Requires careful symmetry to avoid a lopsided look.
Pear Shape
The pear shaped diamond, also known as a teardrop, combines the best of round and marquise shapes. Its distinctive silhouette is both elegant and playful.
Who Loves a Pear Shape?
This shape is for those who embrace individuality. It’s often chosen by people who want a diamond that stands out in a sea of traditional cuts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique, eye-catching shape.
- Creates a slimming effect on fingers.
Cons:
- Can have a visible bow-tie effect if poorly cut.
- Requires perfect symmetry for optimal beauty.
Princess Cut
The princess cut diamond is a square-shaped diamond that combines contemporary style with brilliant sparkle. Its sharp corners and angular silhouette give it a bold and modern feel.
Why Choose a Princess Cut?
This cut is perfect for those who love clean lines and a fresh, edgy look. It offers a high level of brilliance, rivaling the round brilliant, while showcasing a contemporary aesthetic.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Brilliant sparkle with a modern twist.
- Works beautifully in sleek, geometric settings.
Cons:
- The sharp corners can chip without a protective setting.
Heart Shape
The heart shaped diamond is one of the most distinctive cuts, representing romance and sentimentality. Its design requires precise craftsmanship to ensure symmetry and brilliance.
Why Choose a Heart Shape?
This shape is perfect for those who want their diamond to stand out while carrying a deeply personal meaning. It’s often chosen for romantic occasions like anniversaries or as a bold statement in engagement rings.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique and deeply symbolic.
- Eye-catching shape that stands out from traditional cuts.
Cons:
- Requires excellent symmetry for maximum impact.
- Not everyone loves the dramatic look, making it a more niche choice.
Radiant Cut
Radiant cut diamonds blend the rectangular or square shape of an emerald cut with the brilliance of a round cut. Its sparkling facets create an extraordinary light display, ideal for someone who wants the best of both worlds.
Why Choose A Radiant Cut?
This cut is perfect for those who love a glamorous and vibrant look. It’s often chosen by individuals who want a diamond with maximum sparkle and a bold personality.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Extremely brilliant with a vibrant sparkle.
- Hides inclusions and flaws well.
Cons:
- Can appear smaller than other cuts due to its depth.
- Less traditional compared to shapes like round or princess.
Octagon Cut
The octagon cut diamond is a bold choice, showcasing straight edges and clean lines with a hint of geometric flair. This unique cut highlights a modern yet architectural aesthetic.
Picking An Octagon Cut
This cut is perfect for trendsetters who appreciate striking designs and aren’t afraid to step outside the box. Its geometric feature makes it stand out from more common cuts.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Distinctive and contemporary design.
- Emphasizes clarity with its large, open facets.
Cons:
- Less brilliant than more traditional cuts like round.
- Requires excellent craftsmanship to avoid a dull appearance.
Cushion Cut
The cushion cut diamond combines a square or rectangular shape with rounded edges, resembling a pillow, hence the name. Its timeless, soft appearance makes it a popular choice for those seeking a blend of vintage and modern appeal.
Who Loves a Cushion Cut?
Cushion cut diamonds are worn by romantics and lovers of tradition. Its delicate design appeals to those who love softer jewelry designs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Classic, vintage-inspired design.
- Exceptional brilliance and fire.
Cons:
- Can appear smaller than other cuts of the same carat weight.
- Requires careful selection of length-to-width ratio for the desired look.
Emerald Cut
The emerald cut diamond features a rectangular shape with step cuts, creating a mesmerizing hall-of-mirrors effect. This shape is less about sparkle and more about clarity and elegance.
Who Should Choose an Emerald Cut?
Emerald cuts are perfect for those who value understated sophistication. They showcase the diamond’s clarity like no other shape, making them ideal for minimalistic designs.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique, subtle brilliance.
- Highlights the diamond’s clarity.
Cons:
- Inclusions and flaws are more visible.
- Less sparkle compared to brilliant cuts.
Asscher Cut
The Asscher cut diamond is a square diamond with step-cut facets, similar to the emerald cut but with a unique vintage flair. First developed in the early 1900s during the Art Deco era, it has a striking geometric symmetry and a hall-of-mirrors effect that makes it truly captivating.
Why Choose an Asscher Cut?
This cut is ideal for those who appreciate vintage aesthetics and understated elegance. Its clean lines and subtle brilliance exude sophistication, making it perfect for those who value clarity and structure over intense sparkle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Distinctive vintage appeal with a modern edge.
- Highlights the diamond’s clarity beautifully.
- Durable shape, thanks to its cropped corners.
Cons:
- Less brilliance compared to brilliant cuts.
- Inclusions and flaws are more visible due to the open faceting.
Baguette Cut
The baguette cut is a rectangular shape with step cuts, offering a sophisticated, minimalist look. Often used as accent stones in settings, baguettes exude subtle elegance rather than flashy brilliance.
What Makes the Baguette Cut Special?
The baguette cut is ideal for those who appreciate clean lines and understated beauty. It’s often paired with larger center stones or used in eternity bands for its refined, architectural appeal.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Timeless and elegant design.
- Perfect for accent stones or minimalist jewelry.
- Highlights clarity beautifully.
Cons:
- Lower brilliance due to its step-cut design.
- More prone to visible inclusions, so high clarity is essential.
How to Buy a Diamond: Tips From The Experts
Shopping for a diamond can feel overwhelming, but with a little knowledge and preparation, you’ll be confident in your choice. Follow these tips to make the process smooth and enjoyable:
1. Set Your Budget First
Diamonds come in all shapes, sizes, and prices. Knowing your budget upfront helps you narrow your options and avoid overspending.
2. Learn the 4Cs
The 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—are the foundation of diamond quality. Here’s what to keep in mind:
Cut: This affects sparkle the most. Always prioritize a well-cut diamond.
Color: Choose near-colorless diamonds (G–H grade) for great value.
Clarity: Opt for eye-clean diamonds where inclusions are invisible to the naked eye.
Carat Weight: Bigger isn’t always better—look for balance between size and quality.
3. Choose the Right Shape for Your Style
Every shape has its own personality. Think about what matches your style or the preferences of the person wearing it.
4. Compare Settings
The setting is just as important as the diamond itself. Certain shapes, like marquise or pear, benefit from protective settings, while solitaires let the diamond take center stage.
5. Always Check Certification
Ensure the diamond comes with a grading report from a reputable lab, such as GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or AGS (American Gem Society).
6. Think About Long-Term Care
Diamonds are durable but not indestructible. Make sure to ask about maintenance and cleaning tips for your chosen shape.
7. Lab Grown Vs. Natural
Know that you have the option between a lab grown diamond and natural diamonds. Exploring both and comparing them to your preferences and budget is always recommended.
Final Thoughts
At the end of the day, the best diamond shape is the one that makes your heart skip a beat. Think about your lifestyle, personal style, and what matters most to you.
There’s really no wrong choice. The perfect diamond is the one that feels like it was made for you — or the person you’re gifting it to.
Now that you’re armed with all the diamond-savvy knowledge, it’s time to start your diamond buying journey. Happy shopping!
