Diamond Shapes

THE SHAPE OF YOUR DIAMOND

Diamonds can be cut in practically any shape. Diamonds are typically separated into two categories: Round Brilliant Cut and Fancy Shapes. Fancy Shapes feature all cuts that are not Round Brilliant. The size and shape of the rough diamond determine the final shape.

Round Brilliant Cut

For a long time, the Round Brilliant Cut has been the most popular diamond shape. It’s famous for being the most brilliant cut of all shapes. Due to the high demand and high loss of rough diamonds during the cutting process, this diamond shape is slightly more expensive than other shapes.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 56 – 58%
Depth 60 – 61%
Crown Height 14 – 15%
Girdle Thickness 3 – 4%

Cushion Cut

Cushion Cut is one of the oldest cuts on the market. In the past years, the cut has regained its popularity. The cut is between a round and a square diamond. The cushion cut is a perfect alternative to the ‘Princess Cut’, which tends to have more sensitive corners and not the same light refraction as the cushion cut. This Cut can have a squarer look or a more elongated look.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 60 – 64%
Depth 64 – 68%

Emerald Cut

The emerald cut exhibits an elegant and luxurious look with its comprehensive and dramatic reflection of light. Compared to the Round Brilliant Cut, this diamond does not show scintillation due to the Step Cut. The geometrical symmetry highlights the transparency within the diamond, a reason it’s easier to see the inclusions within the stone.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 60 – 65%
Depth 61 – 67%

Princess Cut

For a long time, the Princess Cut was the second most popular diamond shape for jewelry (Now: Cushion Cut). Beloved for its contemporary style and sparkle, it’s perfectly squared with four corners and a brilliant pavilion.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 70 – 74%
Depth 69 – 73%

Radiant Cut

The radiant Cut features a striking luster and reminds one of the emerald cuts, although with more brilliance and fire. Because of the 70 facets in its pavilion and crown, the radiant Cut offers impressive brilliance. The Radian Cut is a great choice if you want a non-round diamond with a brilliant sparkle.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 64 – 67%
Depth 64 – 68%

Pear Shape

The pear shape cut is exquisite and commonly used in earrings and necklaces. Pear shaped diamonds possess some degree of a bow-tie effect, varying from near invisible to severe. A bow-tie effect’s visibility cannot be ascertained by reviewing the diamond certificate or dimensions, but only upon visual inspection. It’s therefor very important to see the stone before purchasing.

The tapered point at the end of the diamond reveals the true color of the stone. Thus, this is why a high color grade is prevalent in this shape.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 57 – 62%
Depth 60 – 62.9%

Oval Cut

For those who prefer the Round Brilliant Cut but want a soft twist, the Oval is an excellent choice. Their luster and soft shapes are a reminder of the Round Brilliant Cut. Due to their elongated look, oval cut diamonds tend to showcase a bow-tie effect. It is therefore essential to see the diamond in person before purchasing it.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 56 – 62%
Depth 60 – 62.9%

Heart Shape

The Heart Shape has a clear and delicate look and is known for being the most romantic cut. A combination of both the heart and the diamond is the strongest symbol of love. A heart shape diamond with good proportions showcases the brilliance and fire of the stone. These diamonds are often used in necklaces.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 57 – 61%
Depth 56 – 60%

Marquise Cut

Marquise cut reminds of royalty and romance. When working with marquise cut diamonds, it is important to know that the two corners are sensitive. Hence, it’s necessary to have strong and stable claws surrounding the corners. Bracelets and Rings are usually more exposed than earrings and necklaces. The tapered points at the end of the diamond reveal the stone’s actual color. Hence, a high color grade is widespread in this shape.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 57 – 60%
Depth 60 – 62.9%

Square Emerald Cut

The Emerald Cut’s square variant features a sophisticated look and an appearance usually seen in vintage jewelery with an art deco touch from the 1920-30s. Due to its step-cut, the stone’s transparency within is highlighted, making it easier to see inclusions compared to a Brilliant Cut diamond.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 61 – 65%
Depth 65 – 68%

Baguette cut

Baguette Cut Diamonds are often used as side stones for rings as they underscore each other and their surroundings. The Cut is rectangular and features a Step Cut bottom. They can also be made as Tapered Baguettes.

IDEAL CUT GRADE
Table 66 – 70%
Depth 63 – 66%

Ethical diamonds

Read about the Kimberley Process