A certain elongated cushion cut ring has been making the rounds lately, and of all the diamond shapes that adorn engagement rings, few come with the timeless romance and unique character of the cushion cut’s soft, inviting contours and brilliant sparkle. It’s a shape that feels both elegantly vintage and perfectly modern, a bridge between centuries of diamond cutting history. Here’s what you need to know about cushion-cut diamonds and how they came to be.
Old and new eras: History of the cushion cut
The story of the cushion-cut diamond begins over two centuries ago. Its direct ancestor is the old mine cut diamond, a chunky, romantic stone shape popular throughout the 18th and 19th centuries. These hand-cut stones were designed to perform beautifully in the candlelight of grand ballrooms, and they feature a high crown, small table and large culet. As cutting technology advanced, the old mine cut evolved. It was refined and standardized throughout the 20th century, gaining more facets and symmetry to become the modern cushion cut we know and love today. This rich history is why many love a cushion-cut diamond antique style.
What makes the cushion cut unique?
Unlike an old mine cushion-cut diamond, the modern cushion cut retains the general pillow-like shape of its predecessor but with enhanced brilliance. It’s known for its soft, rounded corners and larger facets, which can create a beautiful “crushed ice” effect or a clearer, chunky sparkle depending on its faceting pattern.
Types of cushion cuts
Not all cushion cuts are identical. The main distinction lies in that previously mentioned faceting pattern.
- A “crushed ice” cushion has an intricate facet arrangement that results in countless shimmering flashes of light.
- A “chunky” or classic cushion has fewer, larger facets that offer a clearer, more geometric sparkle.
- An elongated cushion-cut diamond, which can have either facet pattern, has become a hugely popular variation, offering a more modern, finger-lengthening appearance while maintaining the cut’s signature softness.
The 4C’s of cushion-cut diamonds
Whether you choose an elongated cushion-cut diamond or you prefer the look of a traditional square shape, the 4C’s can help guide you through the selection process.
- Cut: A well-cut cushion will have exceptional brilliance and fire. Pay close attention to symmetry.
- Color: The larger facets can sometimes make color more noticeable. Many recommend choosing a color grade of H or higher.
- Clarity: Similar to color, the open table can make inclusions more visible. Aim for a clarity grade of VS1 or VS2.
- Carat: Cushion cuts can appear slightly larger than a round brilliant of the same carat weight because they carry more of their weight in their spread rather than their depth.
Buying tips for cushion-cut diamonds
Once you’ve prioritized the 4C’s, look for engagement rings that fall within your desired price point. Focus on the balance between brilliance and shape appeal, since this cut combines the fire of round diamonds with a softer, pillow-like outline. Because cushion cuts tend to hide color less effectively than rounds, consider going slightly higher in color grade, especially if the diamond will be set in white metal. Then prioritize eye-clean clarity over chasing higher grades on paper, and always view the stone in different lighting situations. Everything else is personal preference, from the metal color to any embellishments.
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