Diamonds are among the most captivating and sought-after gemstones in the world, and part of their allure comes from their stunning shapes and cuts. While the terms “shape” and “cut” are often used interchangeably, they refer to two distinct aspects of a diamond’s design, both of which significantly affect its appearance and overall value. Understanding the difference between the two, as well as the most popular shapes and cuts, is essential for anyone looking to purchase a diamond, whether for an engagement ring, a pendant, or other fine jewelry.
Table of Contents
What Is the Difference Between Diamond Shape and Diamond Cut?
Before diving into the specifics of the different shapes and cuts, it’s important to distinguish between the two terms.
- Diamond Shape: Refers to the physical form or outline of the diamond, or the geometry of the stone. Common diamond shapes include round, oval, square, and pear. The shape of a diamond is what is visible from the top view.
- Diamond Cut: Refers to how a diamond has been shaped and faceted to maximize its brilliance and sparkle. A diamond’s cut affects how light enters and exits the stone, influencing its fire and scintillation. This is an evaluation of the proportions, symmetry, and finish of the stone, and it impacts how well the diamond performs optically.
Now that the terms are clarified, let’s explore the most popular diamond shapes and cuts in more detail.
Popular Diamond Shapes
- Round Brilliant Cut
- Shape: Round
- The round brilliant cut is the most popular and traditional diamond shape. It is characterized by 58 facets, which are designed to maximize the stone’s brilliance and light reflection. The round shape is timeless, and because of its well-balanced proportions, it’s often the most expensive shape per carat.
- Princess Cut
- Shape: Square or Rectangular
- The princess cut is a square or rectangular shape with sharp corners and brilliant facets. It’s known for its modern appearance and excellent light performance. The princess cut is one of the most popular shapes for engagement rings and provides a contemporary alternative to the classic round shape.
- Emerald Cut
- Shape: Rectangular
- The emerald cut has a distinctive rectangular shape with beveled corners and long, straight facets. It’s a step cut, meaning the facets resemble steps, and the cut emphasizes the clarity and color of the diamond. Emerald cuts are often associated with vintage or Art Deco jewelry and provide a more subdued, sophisticated sparkle.
- Cushion Cut
- Shape: Square with Rounded Corners
- The cushion cut is a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, resembling a pillow. This shape has been around for over a century and combines elements of both antique and modern styles. It tends to show a softer, more romantic glow, often with larger facets that highlight the diamond’s color.
- Oval Cut
- Shape: Oval
- The oval cut is similar to the round brilliant cut but elongated, which can give the illusion of a larger stone. It is a versatile shape that works well with many different styles of jewelry and often exhibits good brilliance. Oval diamonds can also create the illusion of longer fingers when worn in a ring.
- Marquise Cut
- Shape: Oval with Pointed Ends
- The marquise cut is an elongated, boat-shaped diamond with pointed ends. Its shape is designed to maximize the carat weight, making it appear larger than other shapes of the same carat weight. Marquise diamonds are often used in vintage or classic designs and can be very flattering on the hand due to their lengthening effect.
- Pear Cut
- Shape: Teardrop
- The pear cut, also known as a teardrop shape, is a combination of the oval and marquise cuts, with one rounded end and one pointed end. This unique shape is popular for pendants and earrings and is often associated with elegance and grace.
- Asscher Cut
- Shape: Square with Step Cuts
- The Asscher cut is very similar to the emerald cut but square in shape. It features step cuts and large, dramatic facets. Known for its vintage appeal, the Asscher cut diamond offers a sophisticated and geometric look, often associated with Art Deco styles.
- Radiant Cut
- Shape: Square or Rectangular with Rounded Corners
- The radiant cut is a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, and it combines the brilliance of a round cut with the elegance of a square or rectangular shape. It’s often used for both engagement rings and other types of jewelry, lab diamonds, providing an excellent balance between sparkle and design.
- Heart Cut
- Shape: Heart
- The heart cut is a romantic and symbolic shape, often used in pendants or earrings. It’s essentially a modified pear cut, with one rounded end and a cleft at the top, creating the unmistakable heart shape. While it’s not as commonly used in engagement rings, it’s a popular choice for those seeking a unique, meaningful gemstone.
Popular Diamond Cuts and How They Affect the Stone’s Appearance
The cut of a diamond refers not just to its shape, but how the facets are arranged to maximize its brilliance. Here are some common cut grades and how they affect a diamond:
- Excellent Cut
- An excellent cut diamond is perfectly proportioned to reflect light in the most optimal way. It has a perfect balance of brilliance, scintillation, and fire, making it the most desirable (and expensive) cut.
- Very Good Cut
- A very good cut still exhibits a great deal of brilliance and fire, but it may have slight deviations from the ideal proportions. It’s a popular choice for those looking for a quality diamond at a slightly lower price point.
- Good Cut
- A good cut offers a solid performance but may not sparkle as much as a higher-quality cut. It typically represents a more affordable option, though the diamond will still appear beautiful and perform well in jewelry.
- Fair and Poor Cuts
- Fair and poor cuts generally have proportions that are not optimized for light performance. These diamonds may lack brilliance and may look less appealing, though they are often available at lower prices.
Conclusion
When selecting a diamond, understanding the difference between shape and cut is essential. The shape refers to the physical outline of the diamond, while the cut defines how well the diamond is shaped and faceted to maximize its sparkle and brilliance. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless appeal of the round brilliant, the elegance of the emerald cut, or the unique charm of the cushion cut, each shape offers something distinct.
Ultimately, choosing a diamond comes down to personal preference, style, and the attributes you value most in a gemstone, whether it’s brilliance, size, or overall aesthetics. By considering both the shape and the cut, you’ll be able to find the perfect diamond that suits your taste and budget.
