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Diamond Shapes
Diamond Shapes
When thinking of diamonds, many will immediately think of the classic round diamond shape. It’s no doubt that the round brilliant cut is the most popular shape but if you’re looking for something different, there are plenty of other shapes available. A diamond’s shape refers to its physical form and each diamond shape is very different, possessing unique characteristics. Even though shape is not a part of the 4 C’s of Diamonds, this element will have an impact on the appearance of your diamond. Since each diamond shape is cut to different specifications, they reflect light differently, giving each shape a unique fire and brilliance.
Virtually all diamond cuts sold for use in jewellery are one of ten rounds or fancy diamond shapes. The most popular diamond shapes are:
ROUND DIAMONDS
The round cut diamond is the most popular diamond shape of diamond, representing approximately more than halfof all diamonds sold. Round diamonds are as classic as they are timeless and are often the shape people think of when picturing diamonds. Due to the mechanics of its shape, the round diamond is generally superior to other fancy shapes at the proper reflection of light, maximizing potential brightness.Their scintillating glimmer keeps them popular, and the round cut is considered to be the gold standard for diamonds
PRINCESS CUT DIAMOND
The princess cut diamond, first created in 1980, is the most popular fancy diamond shape. Like round cut diamonds, princess cut diamonds are a good choice for their flexibility in working in almost any style of ring.Princess cut diamonds are exceptionally brilliant because of the way they are cut and are available in both square and rectangular shapes. The color that is emitted from princess cut diamonds is very unique. While the color of other diamond is displayed mainly in the center, the princess cut diamonds show distinct color in each of the corners as well.
Currently, the princess cut is the second most sought after shape and is still rising
EMERALD CUT DIAMONDS
Emerald cut diamonds have a unique optical appearance because of the rectangular facets step-cut into the diamond’s pavilion.
Distinguished by beveled corners and step facets, this type of diamond is more transparent than other shapes, often requiring higher standards of clarity.
Emerald diamonds are the epitome of class and sophistication. The emerald cut is rectangular (square emeralds are commonly referred to as asscher cut diamonds) with cut corners and rows of step-facets that reflect off each other. This effect is sometimes referred to as a “hallway of mirrors”.
The vast majority of emerald cuts have length to width ratios between 1.30 and 1.50 with 1.40 considered as the “ideal” or most popular. Those who prefer a more squared shape will opt for lower ratios while those after a more rectangular cut will choose higher ratios.
OVAL DIAMONDS
Cut with the same number of facets as a round diamond, an oval shape emits nearly the same level of brilliance and fire.However, oval cut diamonds have the added advantage of an elongated shape, which can create the illusion of greater size. This shape optimises carat weight, due to its elongated shape, the oval cut can appear larger than a round diamond of equal carat (weight).
The Oval shape creates the illusion of longer, more slender fingers, making it extremely flattering on the hand.
The timeless, elegant shape of the oval cut diamond adds a touch of class to any piece of jewelry. Combining the classic, high brilliance of the round cut with a more unique shape, the oval cut produces a sophisticated, modern twist on the traditional round shape.
MARQUISE DIAMOND
The shape of a marquise diamond can maximize carat weight, giving you a much larger-looking diamond. This brilliant-cut diamond looks beautiful set with round or pear-shaped side stones, and the length of the marquise makes fingers appear long and slender.
Carat for carat, the marquise diamond has one of the largest surface areas of any diamond shape, making it a good choice when trying to maximize perceived size.
There is no denying the timeless elegance of a marquise cut diamond. Boasting a brilliant 58 facets, the shape shines with substantial fire and sparkle. Due to their vintage flair, marquise diamonds are popular in vintage heirloom jewelry and look particularly stunning in accessory pieces, such as pendants, brooches or necklaces.
PEAR SHAPED DIAMONDS
The modified brilliant-cut pear shaped diamond is a combination of a round and a marquise shape, with a tapered point on one end. Ideally, a pear shaped diamond should possess excellent or very good symmetry. The point should line up with the apex of the rounded end
This brilliant-cut diamond is also called a teardrop for its single point and rounded end. The unique look of the pear shape helps make it a popular choice for a variety of diamond jewelry.
The elongated shape creates a slenderizing effect, making the pear cut especially flattering on diamond rings and earrings. Pear cut diamonds are one of the most customizable shapes due to the variation of stone widths available. Narrower pear cut diamonds look especially graceful on dangle earrings, while one with a wider width makes a more robust showing on an engagement ring.
HEART SHAPED DIAMONDS
Living up to its name, the heart cut diamond has become synonymous with love and affection, making it an excellent choice for an anniversary or engagement ring. One of the most demanding diamond cuts to create, a heart shaped stone requires great skill and dexterity from the diamond cutter.The unique look of the heart-shaped diamond helps make it a distinctive choice for a variety of other diamond jewelry Most Popular in solitaire pendants as well as rings.
Cut similarly to the pear shape, the heart features two rounded edges divided by a single cleft, rather than a single rounded arc.
A talented diamond cutter is required to cut the heart shape, as it is one of the most difficult diamond cuts to create. Extreme skill and dexterity are necessary to ensure both round ends of the heart match perfectly, and are divided by a sharp, well-defined cleft
The heart shape is best viewed in a diamond larger than .5 carats, as it is difficult to see the details of the cleft and point in smaller stones. If you require a smaller diamond, we recommend a bezel or 3-prong setting to better showcase the heart’s unique shape.
CUSHION CUT DIAMOND
The cushion cut diamond combines a square cut with rounded corners, much like a pillow (hence the name).First introduced to the jewelry market in the early 1800’s, the cushion cut diamond is rich with diamond history. Cut into a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners and sides, it's considered by many to be a more vintage version of the round cut diamond.
Possessing a character-rich antique look, the cushion cut diamond is a favorite center stone option for those who prefer vintage style engagement rings and jewelry. The cushion cut gets its vintage appeal from a number of historical cushion diamonds, including the renowned Hope Diamond.
Cushion cut diamonds tend to have impeccable brilliance and clarity in their appearance which can be attributed to their rounded corners and larger facets. These diamonds are available in square and rectangular shapes.
ASSCHER CUT DIAMONDS
The asscher cut diamond was first produced in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland, famous at the time for cutting the world's largest rough stone (the Cullinan, at 3,106 carats). Asscher cut diamonds originally peaked in popularity in the 1920's, and could recently be found only in antique jewelry shops.
Asscher cut diamonds are often mistaken for an emerald cut because of its similar cut style; however an asscher is square rather than rectangular square shape with larger step facets, a higher crown, and a smaller table. This combination often produces more brilliance than the emerald cut
RADIANT CUT DIAMONDS
The radiant cut diamond is the first rectangular cut to have a complete brilliant-cut facet pattern applied to both the crown and pavilion, creating a vibrant and lively diamond. The modified square shape is a nice bridge between a cushion and a princess cut, and for that reason looks beautiful set with both rounded or square cornered diamonds.
Perfect for those looking for a unique style. The sparkle of this diamond cut looks beautiful when combined with a variety of other diamond cuts.
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