Types of Diamond Cuts – How to Choose the Right Shape
As sparkly & luxurious as a diamond seems, selecting it is beyond just buying and is more like an investment for a piece of art that may last for generations. Sure one might get lured by the dazzle and entangled in the dilemma between a diamond's shape & the cut, but the fact is only the cut makes this diamond shine truly beautiful and full of brilliance. The diamond cut is the sharpness with which the diamond is cut and faceted from its raw form, and this process affects the amount of light caught and reflected and thus the sparkle and beauty of the stone. Many confuse the cut with the shape, but in reality, they both are different.
Shape refers to the outline of the diamond. For example, a round, oval, or cushion; however, cut is related to the proportion, symmetry, and finishing of the diamond. A well-cut diamond is truly a masterpiece and is designed for maximum return in light and brilliant brilliance that people desire.
Choosing the right cut for your diamond from the many different cuts available is not a cakewalk but requires thorough knowledge of the same. Each has a unique style ranging from the old-fashioned elegance of the princess cut diamond to the vintage charm of the emerald cut diamond.
This blog will help you take a closer look at the most prized diamond cuts—the princess cut, cushion cut, radiant cut, emerald cut, and Asscher cut—and share some tips on how to select the best fit for your style and budget.
Princess Cut Diamond
It is one of the most popular shapes, especially for engagement rings. It is known for its modern, square appearance, which is brilliant and fiery in sparkle. The princess cut diamond combines the brilliance of a round diamond with the angular look of a square shape. It features sharp corners and a brilliant faceting pattern, which allows light to reflect spectacularly, creating a stunning visual effect.
What to look for while selecting this diamond?
When selecting a princess cut diamond, symmetry and the length-to-width ratio should be taken into consideration. The proportions vary, and you will want a diamond with equal angles and sharp corners for the highest brilliance. A princess cut is also great for those looking for something different from the classic round cut while still having maximum sparkle and fire.
Cushion Cut Diamond
It has an individualistic look with a shape more or less close to a square or rectangle but rounded at corners. It's also sometimes known as a "pillow cut" because it is soft and has rounded corners that create a sense of romance and nostalgia. It has been known since the 19th century, but this remains a popular cut because it never goes out of style and gives a perfect brilliance.
Cushion-cut diamonds are bigger in surface area than round diamonds and therefore give a more impressive feel compared to the weight. It has a distinct "crushed ice" look from its arrangement of facets, making it sparkle softer, yet more subtle. The cushion cut diamond is perfect for those who desire a classic elegance with modern flair.
What to look for while selecting this diamond?
A cushion cut diamond would require close attention to its corner shape. A well-cut cushion diamond would have softly rounded edges, creating a more symmetrical appearance. Cushion cuts also come in different facet patterns, including the "brilliant" and "old mine" cuts, which further affect their brilliance.
Radiant Cut Diamond
It offers a blinding sparkle, as this cut is basically a combination of emerald and round cuts. In general, radiant cuts have the shape of a rectangle or square, with the edges cut off and thus a bold geometric shape is created. Due to their specially designed facets to maximize the reflection of light back to the observer, the radiants create a bright, glowing fire-like appearance. This cut is suitable for individuals who want a diamond that combines the brilliance of other popular cuts with a more distinctive and unique shape. The radiant cut diamond can be worn in almost all settings: as a solitaire, a three-stone ring, or halo design. Being square or rectangular, the radiant cut can accommodate any shape as per one's preference.
What to look for while selecting this diamond?
To select a radiant cut diamond, one needs to look for a length-to-width ratio: a more elongated diamond is often used for more sophisticated and more delicate settings; the more squared diamond, by contrast, appears bolder, more modern.
Emerald Cut Diamond
It is a very sophisticated and elegant choice. It has long, rectangular facets and a unique "step-cut" pattern. The emerald cut focuses on clarity and the beauty of the internal structure of the diamond. This diamond has a large, open table and fewer facets than other cuts, giving it a unique and understated elegance.
Since an emerald cut will not depend on strong brilliance for its eye appeal, a diamond of high clarity will be needed. Inclusions and imperfections become more visible in an emerald cut diamond, primarily because of the vast flat surface area. The emerald cut diamond suits a 'clean and old' look. Best paired with vintage or Art Deco influences, this keeps its timeless qualities intact.
What to look for while selecting this diamond?
While selecting an emerald cut diamond, always consider & understand the proportions and symmetry. A well-cut emerald diamond should have a pleasing ratio between length and width, and the corners should be sharp to create a clean, elegant look.
Asscher Cut Diamond
A diamond cut similar to the emerald, but with a square shape and step facets, the Asscher cut diamond has a very compact, geometric look and creates an almost "hall-of-mirrors" effect with its deep pavilion. The cut was first introduced in the early 20th century and has become associated with vintage and Art Deco styles, making it perfect for old-world charm with a modern twist.
The Asscher cut diamond is the hallmark of brilliant internal clarity and features the diamond's natural inclusions to the utmost exquisite presentation. There is nothing similar to the distinctive beauty that creates a glitter of deep, well-proportioned, symmetrical facets of light and creates an appearance that has caught many an onlooker spellbound. Those looking for sophisticated and unique choice should look forward to buying a Asscher cut diamond.
What to look for while selecting this diamond?
Clarity should be given a priority when choosing an Asscher cut diamond as this cut does not utilize a brilliant faceting pattern, inclusions can be more visible. Make sure to select a diamond with a high clarity grade for the best look.
Choosing the Right Diamond Cut
Following are the points to consider when choosing a diamond cut:
Personal Style: For classic, timeless look, you can opt for a round cut diamond. If you are looking for something modern and unique, a princess cut diamond or radiant cut diamond would be best for you. Vintage lovers can opt for a cushion cut diamond or Asscher cut diamond for their old-world charm.
Budget: Various cuts vary in price range. Generally, round diamonds are more expensive than other cuts because they require more raw materials to enhance their shape. Princess cut diamonds and emerald cut diamonds are more affordable option while still providing excellent brilliance.
Brilliance and Sparkle: For a diamond that shines with exceptional brilliance, cuts like the princess cut diamond, radiant cut diamond, and cushion cut diamond are good options. If you want a more subtle, elegant sparkle, the emerald cut diamond and Asscher cut diamond may be just what you need.
Here’s a chart summarizing the key attributes of each diamond cut mentioned in the blog:
| Diamond Cut | Shape | Brilliance | Best For | Unique Features |
| Princess Cut Diamond | Square or Rectangular | High | Engagement Rings, Modern Styles | Modern, sharp corners, intense sparkle and fire |
| Cushion Cut Diamond | Square or Rectangular with Rounded Corners | Moderate to High | Vintage-Inspired Styles, Classic Appeal | Soft, rounded corners, “crushed ice” effect, romantic look |
| Radiant Cut Diamond | Square or Rectangular | High | Statement Rings, Fashion-Forward Styles | Cropped corners, combines brilliance of round with rectangular shape |
| Emerald Cut Diamond | Rectangular | Moderate | Classic, Elegant Styles, Vintage Rings | Step-cut facets, large table, emphasizes clarity over brilliance |
| Asscher Cut Diamond | Square | Moderate | Vintage, Art Deco Styles | Deep facets, “hall of mirrors” effect, geometric appeal |
| Diamond Cut | Shape | Brilliance | Best For | Unique Features |
| Princess Cut Diamond | Square or Rectangular | High | Engagement Rings, Modern Styles | Modern, sharp corners, intense sparkle and fire |
| Cushion Cut Diamond | Square or Rectangular with Rounded Corners | Moderate to High | Vintage-Inspired Styles, Classic Appeal | Soft, rounded corners, “crushed ice” effect, romantic look |
| Radiant Cut Diamond | Square or Rectangular | High | Statement Rings, Fashion-Forward Styles | Cropped corners, combines brilliance of round with rectangular shape |
| Emerald Cut Diamond | Rectangular | Moderate | Classic, Elegant Styles, Vintage Rings | Step-cut facets, large table, emphasizes clarity over brilliance |
| Asscher Cut Diamond | Square | Moderate | Vintage, Art Deco Styles | Deep facets, “hall of mirrors” effect, geometric appeal |
This chart shows important aspects of each diamond cut. This can help readers to make an informed decision based on the style they prefer, the level of brilliance they desire, and the type of ring or jewelry they are looking for.
The diamond cut you choose would determine the general appearance of your diamond and influence its brilliance, fire, and sparkle. Each cut boasts its special charm, from the beautiful princess cut diamond to the classy emerald cut diamond. With all these considerations: your personal preference, budget, and appearance, you would be able to choose the perfect diamond cut that reflects your style and will capture your heart.
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