As America’s #1 source of unbiased advice for diamond engagement rings, Rare Carat prides itself both on its incredible selection of diamonds compiled from the best retailers all over the country and its carefully curated selection of guides and articles to help its clients. An average review score of 4.9/5 across both TrustPilot and Google backs this claim and serves as the gold standard of what diamond providers and businesses should strive to do for their client base.
In the past, we have helped readers to understand how to know your ring size and with more practical guides like the https://www.rarecarat.com/blog/diamond-ring-tips/100-greatest-engagement-proposal-ideas-of-all-time-rarecarat-com for you to follow. However, today’s article is focused more on the specifics of diamond design, all to make sure all clients can have a complete idea of what they can get for their money and what each one of these styles represents.
So, today’s article will be all about diamond shapes and which one is right for each person.
Understanding cut and shape
One important aspect to consider when purchasing diamonds is that while cut and shape might sound like the same concept at first, they are not the same thing. The shape as the name implies refers to the specific form a diamond is cut into, and that is an element that can be easily seen at first glance. A simple glance or cursory measurement will do to know a diamond’s shape, just like how to know your ring size.
Cut on the other hand refers to the inherent quality of each cut, it quantifies how well each facet interacts with the light and how the craftsmanship and artistry of the jeweler either enhanced or diminished the overall value of the stone. Ten diamonds with the same shape can have completely different cut ratings, and as such, both topics should be considered separately to avoid any potential confusion.
So, in short, the 4Cs are completely separate from the choice of shape, and both factors should be considered on their own.
The ten diamond shapes
Round
Perhaps the closest thing to a “standard” cute in the industry, the round shape makes up for roughly 75% of all diamonds sold globally and remains a perpetually classic choice for both jewelers and buyers. Of course, such an achievement is not in any form, shape, or way accidental as the round design is inherently superior when it comes to the reflection of light and, as such, enhances brightness in a way that other more complicated shapes cannot hope to match.
Oval
Oval diamonds can be best described as modified round cut which means they enjoy many of the same benefits when it comes to fire and brilliance. However its unique shape does have a particular perk when it comes to perception and that is the fact that its elongated shape can result in the illusion that the diamond is larger than it is, which is helpful in larger designs and allows them to be used on wider bands.
Cushion
The cushion cut was the premier design before the introduction of the round cut, and its similarities are apparent at a single glance. The squared corners give it an inherently different feel upfront, but thankfully, recent developments in the industry mean that this classic shape can be enjoyed once again without sacrificing much when it comes to brilliance.
Emerald
The pavilion design of the emerald cut aims to produce a completely different effect from other traditional cuts, as instead of the traditional sparkle found in the above shapes the Emerald shape provides a hall-of-mirrors effect with a beautiful interplay of lights and shadows.
Princess
Perhaps the most popular out of the “non-traditional” shapes the Princess cut is a favorite amongst engagement rings due to its unique presentation which nonetheless manages to maximize brilliance and works on almost any design of a wedding ring. While clients often have to deal with both how to know your ring size and what shapes fit in their desired ring the Princess shape is a safe choice that largely works on anything.
Radiant
Considered a middle point between a cushion and a princess cut the Radiant shape provides a face apparent that results in a brilliant and lively jewel. The rectangular cut for those who want more refined curves is a beloved one both for jewelers and customers.
Pear
The Pear shape combines elements of a brilliant cut and the marquise cut, resulting in one of the most unique shapes in the market. Symmetry is the keyword when it comes to Pear diamonds, and its unique flow allows for more demanding designs on the ring itself.
Marquise
With its long and narrow shape, the Marquise diamond creates the illusion of a larger size and also offers the absolute best carat-for-carat surface area out of any diamond shape. The Marquise grants more diamonds upfront, and if the perceived value is a major factor at the time of the purchase then the Marquise is simply unbeatable.
Asscher
The forerunner of the emerald cut was named after the Asscher Brothers of Holland. Compared to the Emerald, the Asscher diamond is square, which improves the brilliance and helps the stone stand out alongside its higher crown.
Heart
The heart diamond is such an unmistakable symbol of love that it should come as no surprise it’s a mainstay not only in engagement rings but also in most other forms of jewelry. Clients interested in a classic proposal should look into this shape, though they should also keep in mind that the demands of the shape mean that this specific design is better for jewels above .50 carats.
