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Diamond Shapes

One of the key elements that set different diamonds apart is their shape. The shape of a diamond is the first thing you notice when you look at it, and it plays a significant role in the overall aesthetic of your jewellery. Let's embark on a journey to explore the world of diamond shapes, each with its own unique charm. 

Diamond shape refers to the outline of the diamond when it is viewed face up. Diamond cut refers to the facet arrangement, symmetry, reflective qualities and dimensions of the diamond. The irresistible fiery brilliance of a diamond is only unlocked by the skilled cutting of the diamond rough.

Here is a brief overview on the ten most common diamond shapes:

Round Brilliant Cut Diamond Shape

Round Brilliant Cut

The round brilliant cut is the most popular & widely used diamond cut. This style of cut has been around since the 1700's but has been modified over the years.

A traditional round brilliant diamond has 58 facets (including the culet), but sometimes they may have 57 if the diamond has no culet.

The round brilliant cut is designed with specific proportions to optimise light reflection & refraction, creating a dazzling display of fire & brilliance.

Asscher Cut Diamond Shape

Asscher Cut

Developed in 1902 & named after its creator, Joseph Asscher.

This style of cut uses a step-cut process & cropped corners to bring out its fire & clarity.

Asscher cut diamonds, known for their distinctive square shape with cropped corners & step-cut facets, have a captivating history & an enduring appeal.

If you're drawn to the allure of vintage & art deco aesthetics, the Asscher cut might be the perfect choice for you.

Cushion Cut Diamond Shape

Cushion Cut

The modern-day cushion cut owes its facet design to an ancient diamond cut called the Old Mine cut, which dates back to the 1700s.

Modern cushion brilliant cut diamonds are distinguished by their square or squarish-rectangular outline, & include curved sides that are either rounded or have slightly pointed corners.

Depending on how the cutter decides on their proportions, a cushion cut's final appearance can vary greatly in dimension & shape.

Emerald Cut Diamond Shape

Emerald Cut

The emerald cut is a step-cut diamond, characterised by its rectangular or square shape with cut corners. The name comes from the traditional cut used for emeralds.

The emerald cut has a large, open table (the flat top surface of the diamond), allowing for a clear view into the diamond and showcasing its clarity. This style of cut creates a mirror like effect known as the hall of mirrors.

The smoothly beveled corners add visual appeal & provide a secure setting area for the prongs. 

Marquise Cut Diamond Shape

Marquise Cut

Developed in France in the 1740s, legend has it that it was named for the Marquise de Pompadour, a mistress of King Louis XV.

The marquise cut is designed to maximise the carat weight of the diamond, giving it a larger appearance than other cuts of the same carat weight. The long & narrow shape creates an illusion that the diamond is of greater size.

Symmetry is important with this shape as even the slightest difference can create an imbalanced look.

Oval Cut Diamond Shape

Oval Cut

Typically oval diamonds are cut in the brilliant faceting style, which means the diamond has 57 or 58 facets, like a standard round brilliant, giving it similar visual qualities.

Oval cut diamonds often appear larger when viewed face-up compared to other diamond shapes of the same carat weight.

This ever popular style is known for its flattering appearance on the finger, creating an illusion of longer, slender hands.

Pear Cut Diamond Shape

Pear Cut

This popular style of cut has a gently rounded shoulders & wings, which are the sides near the point for an elegant & appealing outline.

When wearing a pear cut, the point should be directed out towards the finger of the wearer.

This style of cut has a slimming effect on the hand & is similar to the marquise shape, in that symmetry is extremely important.

The history of the pear shape traces its history back to the 1400's, with the brilliant style being added later in the 1700's.

Princess Cut Diamond Shape

Princess Cut

A popular style for engagement rings, the princess cut was invented in the 1980's.

Known for its exceptional brilliance, the princess cut combines the sparkle of a round brilliant cut with a distinct square shape.

The princess cut retains more of the original diamond's weight during the cutting process compared to other cuts, making it a more efficient use of the rough diamond.

Radiant Cut Diamond Shape

Radiant Cut

A relatively new cut, the radiant cut was created in the 1970's as an alternative to the emerald cut.

It is a sparkling hybrid, combining the brilliance of the modern round cut with the shape of a square cut. Radiant cut diamonds can differ from being more square or rectangular in shape & are brilliant reflectors of light.

The radiant cut is a mix of step cut facets on the crown and brilliant cut facets on the pavilion.
Heart Cut Diamond Shape

Heart Cut

The heart-shaped cut has been around for centuries, but it gained popularity in the 16th century when Mary, Queen of Scots, gifted a heart-shaped diamond to Queen Elizabeth I.

Cutting a heart-shaped diamond requires exceptional skill. The cutter must balance symmetry, proportion, & the unique shape to maximise the diamond's brilliance.

Connect With Our Diamond Experts

Finding the perfect diamond shape is a deeply personal journey, reflecting your unique style and emotional connection. Each shape holds its own allure, essential in capturing the essence of your love story. Whether drawn to the timeless round, modern princess cut, or charming heart shape, the world of diamonds offers a shape to match your every facet.

Explore our diamond library, regularly updated with loose diamonds every four hours. Select your stones and send an enquiry to arrange an in-store consultation with our friendly experts. Let us guide you through selecting diamonds from our catalog, ensuring the most suitable options await your arrival.

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