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Introduction to Diamond Shapes
Diamonds are available in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. As they are the focal point of any engagement ring, it is vital to find one that suits you and your unique personality. Every shape has its own unique characteristics and aesthetic appeal, allowing these enchanting gemstones to cater to a myriad of tastes. From the classic round to the eccentric Asscher, you’re certain to find something gorgeous for your engagement ring here at Exclusively Diamonds.
Round Cut Diamonds
Sometimes referred to as the “brilliant cut,” these diamonds are peerlessly radiant. The stone’s fantastic brilliance comes from the particular angle and amount of its polished sides (called facets). It was invented in 1919 and remains the standard in jewelry. Making up over 75% of all diamond sales for engagement rings, they are by far the most popular variety.
They are also more valuable than other cuts, leading to a higher upfront cost. This is for two reasons: high demand and creation cost. There are only so many round cut diamonds available, but their enchanting light makes them desirable. Meanwhile, a lot of diamond mass is lost during the cutting, at least 50%.
Princess Cut Diamonds
This stone’s technical name is “modified brilliant” due to its light reflection and unusual shape. Princess cut diamonds have an inverted pyramid shape, showing an attractive and unique square with a subtle X that points outward. The numerous sides and facets evoke a regal, luxurious, and radiant aesthetic that makes the gemstone beloved by many. Its unusual shape automatically makes it distinct from other stones.
This gem’s modern design was first created in 1980. The jewel is an evolution of the French cut and was extremely popular during the early 2000s. Since 2015, these gems are the second most popular shape for diamond center stones.
Oval Cut Diamonds
Love the brilliance of the round cut but want something more distinct? The oval cut may be perfect for you. These gemstones have elongated sides but a large front-facing surface area. From some angles, it is very bright and vibrant. Meanwhile, the slender shape gives it a chic and elegant look. They also appear larger than most other cuts, which can be an important quality for some.
Oval cut diamonds tend to show off the stone’s color more than other cuts, so it's essential to ensure that the gemstone has the exact shade you desire.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
The emerald cut diamond has a sophisticated and refined rectangular shape. Their elegant shape creates a vivid display of light shadow, sometimes referred to as a “hall of mirrors” effect. Meanwhile, the corners are cropped to ensure stability. Emerald cut diamonds provide a clear window into the stone’s insides. This means that any flaws or imperfections are easily visible. As such, high-quality diamonds are best used with the emerald cut.
Emerald cut diamonds are particularly rare, making up only about 3% of center stones. It is beloved by celebrities, possibly due to its ability to show off high-quality diamonds.
Pear Cut Diamonds
Sometimes called “teardrop cut” diamonds, these gemstones have a wide, rounded base and a narrow tip. This interesting combination makes pear cut diamonds instantly recognizable and unmistakable. The gemstone’s balance makes the stone look more prominent. Elegant and chic, they can be a high-fashion style center stone with a gorgeous aesthetic. These diamonds are also affordable relative to round cut stones.
Pear cut diamonds aren’t standardized, so they are available in a wide variety of proportions. Thus, it is essential to see them in person.
Radiant Cut Diamonds
The radiant cut is technically referred to as the “rectangular modified brilliant,” these stones are more elongated than princess cuts. They have an outline similar to emerald cut stones but reflect much more light. Their slender shape gives them an elegant and sophisticated intrigue emboldened by the facet’s distinctive brilliance. Like oval cut diamonds, they are a great choice for those who want something more unique than round cut stones but desire their light reflection.
Radiant cut diamonds are rare and gorgeous, ensuring a captivating and stylish engagement ring. It was invented in 1977 and is a relatively contemporary gemstone.
Cushion Cut Diamonds
The third most popular shape, cushion cut diamonds have a square silhouette with rounded corners, resembling a cushion, hence its name. These diamonds exhibit a fiery light display and reflect both white and colorful light. Like emerald cut stones, cushion shaped diamonds present a clear view into the gem’s inside. This makes it easy to see any stone’s inclusions, so this cut is ideal for higher-end gems.
There are two primary varieties of cushion cut diamonds: standard and modified. The former has a classic and vintage look, representing less than 1% of cushion cut stones. Meanwhile, the latter is much more common and resembles the popular round cut.
Asscher Cut Diamonds
The Asscher cut has a square shape with cut corners that allow more light to enter the diamond. It has a radiant and beautiful silhouette that can’t be found elsewhere. Its distinctive light display is unusual and eccentric, displaying every nook and cranny of the diamond, so only the highest quality diamonds are given this distinctive cut.
These luxurious gemstones are scarce. A staple of Art Deco engagement rings, their unusual shape is striking and vintage. While historically they are the most expensive gemstone, as of 2016 they have gone down in price. This may be because they can make a diamond look smaller.
Find Diamond Jewelry at Exclusively Diamonds
Discover your favorite diamond engagement rings and fashion jewelry at Exclusively Diamonds. Our Mankato jewelry store offers a vast selection of today’s most beloved and popular designer brands. Whether you’re looking for a new engagement ring or a dazzling pendant, you’ll find something wonderful at our showroom. We also provide plenty of professional jewelry services including resizing, repair, polishing, cleaning, and more. Call (507) 345-1658 to learn more.
