A Complete Guide to Diamond Shapes and Their Features

Though there are various diamond shapes available, round is probably the most preferred one for most people. It is beautiful, classic, and offers a sophisticated look. But when you seek meaningful jewellery, a little research can go a long way.

This diamond buying guide throws light on some of the most popular shapes and cuts for diamonds and their features. It’s a must for you if you’re planning to buy jewellery.

Understanding a Diamond’s Shape

The shape of a diamond refers to its outline when viewed from the top. It’s the silhouette of the sparkler that determines its overall appearance and style. Some of the most popular diamond shapes include round, oval, pear and heart.

Generally, the shape of a diamond is confused with its cut but they both have different meanings. The cut of a diamond emphasises the design and proportions of its facets. Two diamonds with the same shape can look different from each other based on how they’re cut.

Getting confused between the shape and cut of a diamond is easy due to certain terms that describe both its outline and facet proportions such as emerald or princess cut. Emerald, Asscher and radiant diamonds can sometimes look similar in shape but they are entirely different when it comes to their facets.

Diamond Appearance: Shapes and Cuts

Diamond shapes and cuts can affect its appearance significantly. For instance, a pear or oval diamond, with its elongated shape, can give you the illusion of a bigger stone.

Similarly, brilliant cut diamonds can best highlight their sparkle while step cuts emphasise the colour of the sparklers. Also, the brilliant cut can somewhat hide certain inclusions of the diamond while the step cut, with its larger facets, can reveal the small flaws.

The setting in which the diamond is mounted can also affect its overall look. For instance, heart-shaped diamonds need to be set in prongs to bring out their appeal.

Popular Diamond Shapes and Cuts

Diamonds have been popular for ages. They’re revered for their exceptional brilliance and sparkle that accentuate their appeal significantly. Let’s take a look at some of the most sought-after shapes and cuts for diamonds.

Round Brilliant Cut Diamond

The majority of diamonds in the market feature the brilliant cut. Since this type of cut is known to offer maximum sparkle, it’s an ideal choice for round diamond engagement and wedding rings.

Pear-Shaped Diamond

Of all diamond shapes, the pear inspires admiration like nothing else does. Pear brilliant cut diamonds offer a striking look with their long, elegant shape. These diamonds are a preferred choice for women for their most special jewellery.

Princess Cut Diamond

One of the most popular cuts for contemporary jewellery design, the princess cut fascinates with its brilliant sparkle and pointed edges. The best part about princess cut diamonds is that they can look their level best in all types of settings.

Marquise-Shaped Diamond

Diamond shapes such as marquise are the epitome of elegance and grace. Diamonds in this shape offer a distinct look with their pointed edges. Marquise diamonds are an excellent choice for statement jewellery items.

Oval Brilliant Cut Diamond

The oval brilliant cut diamond blends the appeal of a round brilliant diamond with its elongated design. This design can make the diamond appear bigger, which makes it a popular choice for those eyeing a budget purchase.

Emerald-Shaped Diamond

Few diamond shapes exude sophistication like the emerald-shaped ones. They are a cut above the rest when it comes to reflecting light, offering a ‘hall of mirrors’ effect with their facets. The geometric lines of the emerald shape symbolise a lasting commitment, making it an excellent option for engagement rings.

Asscher Cut Diamond

The bold, square shape of Asscher cut diamonds rocks your look with a touch of timeless allure. With its step cut facets, an Asscher diamond captures the imagination of the beholders profoundly. Asscher cut diamonds are more common in vintage jewellery items.

Final Words

Any of these diamond shapes can double the appeal of your favourite jewellery piece. The round brilliant is in a league of its own as far as sophistication is concerned so it seems like an ideal fit for statement pieces. For a bold appeal, you can never go wrong with the square shape of an Asscher cut diamond. There’s no denying you’ll end up elevating your style goals with these sparklers as centre stones of your jewellery.

FAQs

1. What’s the outline of a cushion cut diamond?

Cushion cut diamonds feature a square or rectangular outline with soft, rounded corners.

2. Which diamond shape is best for engagement rings?

Diamond shapes such as the round brilliant, emerald and heart are perfect for engagement rings.

3. What are some popular settings for marquise diamonds?

Bezel and prongs are two of the most popular setting options for marquise-shaped diamonds.

4. What’s the trendiest diamond shape for women’s earrings?

The round brilliant cut is one of the trendiest diamond shapes that you can choose for women’s earrings.

5. What do princess cut diamonds symbolise?

Princess cut diamonds symbolise individuality, strength and romance. Their sharp corners are often linked to modern love.