Diamonds are one of nature’s most beautiful and enduring creations. When it comes to diamonds, the “cut” refers to how the diamond has been shaped and faceted, and it plays a critical role in the stone’s overall appearance. The cut not only influences how a diamond sparkles but also affects its brilliance, fire, and scintillation—three of the key factors that determine a diamond’s visual appeal.
Although people often talk about diamond cuts, they may not always be clear on what this term means. In the world of diamonds, the “cut” is distinct from the “shape.” While “shape” refers to the overall form of the diamond (round, oval, square, etc.), the “cut” refers to the angles and proportions that determine the diamond’s ability to reflect and refract light.
In this article, we’ll explore the most Different Diamond Cuts and discuss the characteristics that make each one unique.
1. Round Brilliant Cut
Most Popular & Timeless
The round brilliant cut is the most popular and widely recognized diamond cut. It’s often regarded as the ideal cut due to its unparalleled ability to reflect light and deliver maximum brilliance. Featuring 58 facets, the round brilliant cut is specifically designed to enhance the diamond’s sparkle.
This cut is a safe choice for engagement rings, wedding bands, and other fine jewelry because it works with almost any setting style. It’s also a great choice for those who want a traditional yet highly brilliant diamond.
Pros:
- Maximum brilliance and sparkle
- Timeless and versatile
- Works well in all settings
Cons:
- Often more expensive due to the higher loss of rough material during cutting
- Not ideal for people looking for something unconventional or unique
2. Princess Cut
Modern and Square
The princess cut is a popular choice for those who want a modern, square diamond with the brilliance of a round cut. The princess cut features sharp corners and can be recognized for its slightly geometric shape, making it a stunning option for a contemporary look. It was first developed in the 1980s and has since become one of the most popular fancy shapes in engagement rings.
With its large facets, the princess cut offers great brilliance and sparkle. It’s a great option for people who prefer a square shape but still want a diamond with a lot of light reflection.
Pros:
- Contemporary and stylish
- Great sparkle and brilliance
- More affordable than round brilliant cuts
Cons:
- The sharp corners can be prone to chipping if not properly protected in a setting
- Slightly less brilliant than the round brilliant cut
3. Emerald Cut
Elegant and Sophisticated
The emerald cut is a step-cut style, meaning that it features long, straight facets rather than the brilliant-style facets found in round or princess cuts. The emerald cut has a rectangular shape with truncated corners, giving it a sophisticated, vintage look.
Because of its large, open table (the flat top surface of the diamond), the emerald cut emphasizes the clarity of the diamond more than its sparkle. It’s a great choice for diamonds with high clarity, as inclusions are more noticeable in this cut. The emerald cut offers a unique beauty that is both elegant and understated.
Pros:
- Timeless and sophisticated
- Showcases clarity and color
- Perfect for those seeking a vintage or Art Deco look
Cons:
- Less sparkle and brilliance compared to round or princess cuts
- Inclusions and imperfections are more visible
4. Oval Cut
Elegant and Elongated
The oval cut is an elongated version of the round brilliant cut, designed to offer the same brilliance and sparkle but in a more unique shape. Its symmetrical and elongated appearance can create the illusion of greater size, making it a popular choice for those looking for a lab created diamonds without paying for extra carat weight.
The oval cut works well in many settings and is often chosen by those who want something a little different from the traditional round while still maintaining an elegant and timeless appeal.
Pros:
- Similar brilliance to the round brilliant cut
- Elongated shape can make the diamond appear larger
- Unique but still classic
Cons:
- The elongated shape may make it appear less traditional
- Can have a “bow-tie” effect, where dark areas form in the center due to the facet angles
5. Cushion Cut
Vintage Charm
The cushion cut, sometimes called the “pillow cut,” is a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners. This cut has been around for centuries and is known for its romantic and vintage appeal. The cushion cut combines the best aspects of both the round brilliant and the emerald cut, offering soft edges and a large table for a striking appearance.
Cushion-cut diamonds are known for their beautiful, subtle sparkle, which is often described as a “crushed ice” effect. This cut is ideal for people who love classic designs but want something more unique than a round or princess cut.
Pros:
- Vintage, romantic look
- Great for people who want a classic but unique diamond
- Offers good light reflection and sparkle
Cons:
- Sparkle can be less intense compared to round or princess cuts
- Might not be as timeless as other cuts like the round brilliant
6. Asscher Cut
Art Deco Glamour
The Asscher cut is often compared to the emerald cut because of its square shape and step-cut facets, but the Asscher is distinct with its deep, dramatic corners and larger, faceted pavilion. This cut was originally developed in the early 20th century and is considered a hallmark of the Art Deco style.
Due to its striking, geometric appearance, the Asscher cut is often chosen by those seeking a vintage or old-world aesthetic. The Asscher cut also requires high-quality diamonds because any inclusions will be more visible in the large, flat table.
Pros:
- Unique and striking
- Evokes a vintage or Art Deco style
- Offers great clarity when cut well
Cons:
- Less brilliance and sparkle than round or princess cuts
- Requires higher-quality diamonds to look its best
7. Marquise Cut
Dramatic and Distinct
The marquise cut is an elongated, football-shaped diamond with pointed ends. This cut is designed to maximize carat weight and create the illusion of a larger diamond, making it popular for engagement rings where size is important. It’s also a flattering shape that can elongate the appearance of fingers.
While it has a unique and dramatic look, the marquise cut can show the “bow-tie” effect, where the middle of the diamond appears darker due to the facet arrangement. This cut is often used in vintage-style or antique-inspired settings.
Pros:
- Elongates the appearance of fingers
- Maximizes carat weight for a larger-looking diamond
- Dramatic and unique
Cons:
- Can show a bow-tie effect or dark center
- Less popular than other shapes, making it harder to find
8. Radiant Cut
Brilliant and Versatile
The radiant cut combines the elegance of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round cut. This cut features cropped corners and a brilliant facet pattern, making it sparkle in all directions. Radiant-cut diamonds are often rectangular, but they can also be square, offering great versatility. The radiant cut is known for its excellent light reflection, making it one of the more brilliant fancy shapes.
Pros:
- High brilliance and sparkle
- Versatile, works well in both square and rectangular forms
- Cropped corners add a unique touch
Cons:
- Less popular than the round or princess cut
- The brilliance can be affected by poor symmetry or poor-quality diamond
Conclusion
When choosing a diamond, the cut is arguably the most important factor to consider. It determines the diamond’s overall appearance, from how much light it reflects to how much it sparkles. Whether you prefer the classic brilliance of a round cut, the vintage charm of a cushion cut, or the dramatic lines of a marquise, each diamond cut offers a unique aesthetic that will influence the final look of your jewelry.
Ultimately, the best diamond cut for you depends on your personal taste, style, and budget. When shopping for a diamond, be sure to balance your desire for sparkle with the diamond’s overall shape, size, and clarity, as these factors all contribute to its overall beauty and appeal.
