If you’re on the lookout for the perfect diamond, it may be overwhelming to see all the different kinds available. To help, we’ve given a brief description and visual of each diamond type so you can compare and contrast to find your ideal gem shape and cut.
Round
A round cut diamond is the most popular diamond cut and it is an ideal choice for solitaire ring styles. The round brilliant cut is often used to bring out the brilliance of the diamond. This cut offers more flexibility with the four C’s of diamonds (carat weight, cut, color, and clarity).
Oval
An oval cut is similar to the round shape with its brilliant cut, but the oval cut is elongated for a classic and elegant look. It creates an illusion that a finger is longer and slimmer. The history of oval diamonds can be traced all the way back to the 1300’s.
Pear
Also called a teardrop, the pear cut is unique for its organic shape that combines round and marquise shapes. It can be customized for a wider or more elongated look, but its pointed end will often help slim the finger. It’s important that a well-cut pear diamond has symmetry.
Radiant
A modern cut that trims the corners, a radiant cut is a versatile design and is a popular pick for many ring styles. It sets beautifully with side diamonds.
Emerald
The classic emerald cut show a unique appearance with its rectangular facets. It does not sparkle as much as a radiant or cushion cut would, but instead focuses on the diamond’s clarity. It provides a mirror-like image that plays with the light for a beautiful finish.
Princess
A modern cut that was created to show off a diamond’s brilliance, a princess cut light in the center. This cut shows off the diamond’s color in the middle and each of the corners, which gives it the illusion of being larger.
Marquise
A marquise cut is the ideal shape to maximize the size of the diamond to make it look bigger. Its elongated shape will give the illusion of long, slender fingers, and its length to width ratio can be customized. The shape was commissioned by King Louis XV of France to match the shape of his mistress’s mouth.
Cushion
Rounded corners and larger facets help the cushion cut show a diamond’s brilliance and shine. Its timeless design fits both traditional and modern styles, and it can be customized to a more square or rectangular shape. It’s also referred to as a pillow-cut diamond for its shape.
Asscher
With facets similar to an emerald cut, an asscher cut is limited to a square shape. It also focuses on the clarity of the diamond, and its higher crown gives it a more brilliant finish. It was created in the 1900’s and was a popular choice for art deco inspired rings.
