With so many dazzling diamond shapes, which one will truly make the cut for you? Discover how the perfect combination of shape and cut can make your diamond shine brighter.
Key Takeaways
- Each shape offers unique characteristics and visual appeal. From the classic round cut to the modern marquise, a diamond’s shape can change the overall look of your jewellery.
- The cut of a diamond impacts its brilliance and fire, making it an essential aspect to consider. A well-cut diamond will reflect light beautifully, maximising its sparkle, whereas a poorly cut diamond may appear dull.
- The perfect diamond is not just about meeting specific criteria, but about finding a stone that resonates with you or your loved one, and one that suits your lifestyle and budget.
Understanding Diamond Shapes
Shape and Cut
The nuance of shapes and cut can greatly influence the brilliance of your diamond, so discovering what speaks to you can help you make an informed decision. Though often used interchangeably, shape and cut refer to distinct characteristics of a diamond.
Shape is the physical form of a diamond we see at first glance. For instance, round, square or oval.
Cut is a technical term that refers to a diamond’s facets, symmetry and reflective qualities. It’s about how well a diamond has been crafted and the precision in the angles.
The reason for confusion is that diamonds are sometimes described as ‘cut’ into shapes, giving rise to names such as square cut diamonds. However, they are separate terms. Between two similar round cut diamonds, one could have a brilliant, sparkling cut and another could have a duller cut.
Round Diamonds
The round diamond is the most classic shape and is unmatched in popularity. A timeless favourite for engagement rings, this versatile shape suits almost all settings and styles.
With 58 facets, the cone-shaped diamond is crafted to maximise light return. Its incredible brilliance and light performance come from a precise combination of cut, symmetry, and polish.
Cushion Cut Diamonds
The cushion cut diamond is characterised by its rounded corners that resemble a pillow, in a square or rectangular shape.
Designed with larger facets, the rounded corners of the cushion-shaped diamond are a classic look that also enhance the diamond’s durability against chips or breakage.
Princess Cut Diamonds
The princess cut diamond features a square or rectangular shape with clean, pointed corners. Well-known for its chic, geometric look, this shape is an increasingly popular design for modern brides.
Princess cuts are more forgiving to flaws and are designed to optimise brilliance, especially in the centre of the diamond.
Emerald Diamonds
The emerald cut diamond has a unique step-cut and elongated rectangular shape. Originally used only on emeralds, this shape has seen a resurgence in popularity thanks to its vintage beauty.
Its large, open facets emphasise the diamond’s clarity, making it the ideal choice for individuals who prefer understated elegance.
Asscher Diamonds
Also known as the ‘square emerald cut’, the asscher cut diamond also showcases a step-cut but with cropped corners.
As a brighter alternative to the emerald cut, this cut offers slightly more layered facets for a mesmerising blend of brilliance and clarity. Illuminating the colour and quality of a diamond, this shape is a modern twist on a vintage-inspired design.
Oval Diamonds
The oval cut is a modern alternative to the traditional round cut, with a slightly more unusual shape that combines the brilliance of a round diamond with a longer shape.
Its length-to-width ratio creates an optical illusion that elongates fingers, making them appear more slender and flattering.
Marquise Diamonds
Like the oval diamond, the marquise cut diamond features an elongated profile. This distinctive, boat-like shape has a royal history, originating from a royal desire to mimic a smile.
The marquise diamond also has a flattering effect on the finger, with the added benefit of maximising carat weight and making the diamond appear larger than its actual size.
Pear Diamonds
Combining elements of both Round and Marquise shapes, the Pear diamond features a unique teardrop shape with a rounded end and pointed tip.
Its elegant appearance adds a touch of sophistication to jewellery pieces and fresh possibilities for unique or unconventional designs.
Heart Diamonds
An iconic symbol of love, the heart-shaped diamond is perfect for romantic occasions to represent deep and enduring love.
Given its distinctive shape, this diamond requires precise craftsmanship to ensure symmetry and brilliance, and its silhouette can vary greatly.
Exploring Diamond Cuts
Diamond Cut Grades
The cut of a diamond is graded on a scale from Excellent to Fair, and this grade significantly affects the diamond’s overall appearance and value.
- An Excellent cut diamond reflects almost all the light that enters it, offering maximum brilliance and fire.
- A Very Good cut diamond reflects most of the light, creating a beautiful sparkle.
- A Good cut diamond reflects a substantial amount of light, providing decent brilliance.
- A Fair cut diamond reflects some light, but much less than higher grades, resulting in less sparkle.
When choosing a diamond, opting for a higher cut grade ensures that the diamond will have exceptional sparkle and visual appeal.
With a wide variety of shapes and various cuts to choose from, it’s best to explore the dazzling world of diamonds first-hand. Visit our boutiques for expert advice on how you can find the perfect shape and cut to complement your unique style.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most popular diamond shapes for engagement rings?
The round diamond is the most popular diamond shape for engagement rings, known for its versatility and classic appeal. Princess cut and oval diamonds are also highly sought after for their unique charm and brilliance.
How does a diamond's cuts affect its appearance?
Diamond cuts directly influence a diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation. A well-cut diamond will appear more luminous and visually appealing, while a poorly cut diamond may look dull and lackluster.
How do I choose the right diamond shape for my engagement ring?
Selecting the right diamond shape involves considering your personal style, finger shape, and size. Round diamonds suit most hand types, while elongated shapes like oval or marquise can help fingers appear longer and slimmer.
If you’re uncertain about how to choose the right shape or cut, our knowledgeable staff at our Poh Heng boutiques can equip you with the right information to make the best choice.