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diamond shape guide

When most people think about diamonds, they picture the classic and popular round shape. But if you prefer something different, there are plenty of other shapes available to reflect your unique style and taste.

what is a diamond shape?

Diamonds can be cut into a variety of shapes. There’s an option for every bride and budget! Since every diamond shape is cut to varying specifications, they will reflect light differently, giving every shape its own brilliance and fire.

types of diamond shapes

round cut diamonds

The most popular shape of all time: the round brilliant diamond. Aside from being the most iconic diamond shape, the round diamond is most loved because of its ability to sparkle brighter than any other shape. Because round diamonds are the most popular and most researched shape, they offer the greatest amount of flexibility in terms of balancing cut, color, clarity grade and price.

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princess cut diamonds

The princess cut diamond has a square shape with sharp angles and a similar facet pattern as the round brilliant diamond, so it sparkles more than other square shapes. Sophisticated and eye-catching, the princess cut is perfect for those who love symmetry, clean lines and modern design.

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cushion cut diamonds

A cushion cut diamond is a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, like a cross between a round and a princess cut diamond. A cushion diamond has a soft, romantic appeal and is sometimes known as a pillow cut.

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emerald cut diamonds

Although the emerald cut diamond has the same number of facets as round and princess cut diamonds, it is the parallel facets that help highlight the stone’s color and clarity. The best way to describe the emerald cut is a rectangular shape designed with a large table and step-cut faceting that creates a unique hall-of-mirrors effect. This geometric diamond shape is rare: only 3 percent of all the diamonds in the world are emerald cut diamonds.

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oval cut diamonds

The oval shape has an elongated silhouette to appear larger. A brilliant facet pattern means the diamond sparkles as well as a round or princess cut, and the exquisite oval shape appeals to any bride, whether she prefers classic or more modern looks.

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marquise cut diamonds

The marquise shape is an elongated oval with pointed ends and is sometimes referred to as boat shaped. The elongated shape maximizes the carat weight of the diamond. Plus, this cut creates the illusion of a larger diamond.

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pear cut diamonds

The pear-shaped diamond can appear modern or vintage, depending on its setting. Its elongated teardrop has a narrow pointed top and perfectly rounded bottom. The brilliant cut is known for high sparkle, and the elegant pear shape helps to lengthen and flatter its wearer's finger.

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radiant cut diamonds

Radiant cut diamonds have a rectangular shape with cropped corners. The square stone is cut to have a complete brilliant-cut facet pattern. A radiant diamond is also available in a more rectangular shape, depending on its length-to-width ratio. Radiant cut diamond engagement rings are beloved for the sparkle they produce and are usually set in a prong-style solitaire setting.

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asscher cut diamonds

This octagon shape has cropped corners and mesmerizing angles that set it apart from any other shape. The Asscher, developed during the Art Deco period, is a blend of the princess and emerald cut. The Asscher is most well-known for its X-shaped facets that can be seen from above. The Asscher cut is commonly referred to as being “vintage” or “antique.”

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heart cut diamonds

Wear your love loud and proud with a bold symbol of romance: a heart-shaped diamond. Whimsical and sweet, a heart-shaped diamond is just what it sounds like: a stunning stone carefully cut into the shape of a heart.

how are diamonds cut into shapes?

Diamond cutting is essentially done by either cleaning or sawing a diamond with a laser or steel blade. There are many other key steps involved in the process, and it takes skilled hands to ensure that a diamond is faceted to high standards.

frequently asked questions

The shape of a diamond refers to the external figure or outline of the diamond (pear-shaped, cushion, round). The cut of a diamond refers to the dimensions, symmetry, facets and reflective qualities of the diamond.

Reflected by their widespread popularity, round diamonds are the pinnacle in brilliance. Most commonly cut with 58 facets that reflect light, round brilliant diamonds are nearly unmatched when it comes to shine.

A diamond's shape is one of the most important factors impacting price. Choosing a fancy-shaped diamond can actually save you more, compared to a round diamond of similar quality and size. Because fancy shapes, such as pear, oval and marquise, are elongated, they tend to look larger than round diamonds.

Marquise diamonds have the largest face-up area of any diamond cut — approximately 15 percent larger than round diamonds. They also cost less than round diamonds of the same carat.

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Not sure what diamond shape is best for your partner's future engagement ring? No worries! Our team of jewelry experts can help you decide. Schedule an online or in-person appointment today.

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