A diamond’s shape refers to the diamond’s physical form and is one of the most noticeable things about it. Shape is not one of the 4 C’s (carat, color, clarity, and cut) of evaluating a diamond, but it is an additional factor to consider when shopping for a diamond. Since each diamond shape is cut to different specifications, they reflect light differently, giving each shape a unique fire and brilliance.
Popular Diamond Shapes
The most popular shapes are the round, oval, emerald, square (cushion), princess, asscher, marquise, heart, pear, and heart. Below you will find more details about some of these styles and cuts.
- The Round cut diamond is the most popular shape of a diamond. Diamond cutters have been working to perfect this cut for hundreds of years to maximize its brilliance and fire.
- The Princess cut diamond is exceptionally brilliant because of the way they are cut. 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.
- The Marquise cut is the perfect cut in providing more carat weight by emphasizing the size of the diamond. Its unique shape creates a more slender and longer effect given to the fingers and hands.
- The Cushion cut diamond is a timeless shape, also called pillow-cut diamond. Because of its rounded corners and larger facets, cushion cut diamonds tend to have impeccable clarity and brilliant appearance.
- The Emerald cut diamond has a unique brilliant optical appearance because of its rectangular, flat facets reflecting light off the surface of the stone. This shape of diamond is rare and is also not used as frequently as round-cut diamonds.
- The Radiant cut diamonds are perfect for those looking for a unique style. Radiant cut diamonds feature uniquely trimmed corners that incorporate characteristics of emerald and round cuts. The sparkle of this diamond looks beautiful combined with other shapes.
- The Oval cut diamond is the classic appearance with a modern twist! This cut is one of the most popular cuts in all types of jewelry, including engagement rings, making it easier to match other jewelry. Its incredible brilliant-cut has the advantage of accentuating long, slender fingers.
- The Asscher diamond is similar to a square emerald cut, usually with larger step facets, a higher crown, and a smaller table. This combination often produces more brilliance than the emerald cut.
Style and Fit
Depending on factors such as your style and how the ring complements your hand, the shape of the diamond will vary for different people.
Women with shorter fingers should try on elongated styles such as a pear, oval, or marquise and avoid wide bands that give the illusion of even shorter fingers. Square shapes such as, princess and radiant are best for long fingers as they give the illusion of shorter fingers. Women with larger hands may want to avoid slender and delicate rings, such as marquise, as they may not seem proportional once on the hand. Heart and round shapes are highly recommended for a larger hand.
It’s important to try on a variety of different shapes, even though they are not your first choice, to better understand what shape best fits your style and hand.
Now that we narrowed down some of the popular shapes, the best shape of diamond varies for different people and personalities. There is no one perfect shape to shop for, but essentially what feels right for you and your style. Choosing a ring that matches your personality and budget is a win in our book!
