Trending: The Cushion Cut

Classic, timeless and versatile, the cushion cut has been ranked as one of the most popular cuts of diamonds for decades. Its contemporary yet elegant appeal is favoured by many, from modern-day movie stars to important figures of the past, and there is a whole trove of history and significance behind the origins of this dazzling cut.

If you’re deciding between diamond cuts and designs for your engagement ring or special piece of jewellery, here are some reasons why you should consider the cushion cut!

  • Its origins date back centuries
  • While the cushion cut is known and adored by many today, its history dates back as early as the 1700s, and was the most popular cut until the late 19th century! It is reminiscent of what was once called the ‘Old Mine Cut’ - a square diamond with rounded corners, named after the Brazillian mines the diamonds were found in.

    Back then, the technology available didn’t allow for more complex cuts of diamonds. The cushion cut was used regularly as it provided efficiency and affordability, while still ensuring that the end result was impressive, dazzling, and showed the true beauty of the diamond.


  • It is a versatile and flattering cut
  • Cushion cut diamonds are sleek and symmetrical, meaning that they will flatter most hand shapes while still maintaining their eye-catching glitz and sparkle. The many facets that make up the stone allow plenty of light to flow through, boasting a high level of brilliance and fire.

    We recommend opting for a solitaire, halo or side-stone setting when choosing how to best bring your cushion cut to life.


  • Some of the world’s most famous diamonds are cushion cuts
  • Considering how far back the history of the cushion cut dates, it comes as no surprise that many famous diamonds are cut in this distinctive shape. 

    The Hope Diamond, for example, is one of the most famous diamonds in the world, and weighs an impressive 45.52 carats. The ownership records date back nearly four centuries, and it has been an important resource in helping to reveal new findings about the formation of diamonds.

    Image source: Studio Kanji Ishii, Inc. / Smithsonian

     

    Celebrities also happen to adore the cushion cut, including Kim Kardashian-West, whose $8 million 15-carat engagement ring set atop a delicate pavé band given to her by Kanye West stunned the world back in 2013. 

    Image source: Evan Agostini/Invision/Ap; Inset: Getty Images

     

    Priyanka Chopra Jonas’ engagement ring is another cushion cut dazzler we can’t seem to stop dreaming about. Nick Jonas allegedly shut down an entire Tiffany & Co. store to pick out her ring - a cushion cut diamond nestled amongst smaller tapered baguettes. Talk about jaw-dropping!

    Image source: Instagram

    How can we forget Meghan Markle’s stunning 3.5 carat cushion cut centre stone, sitting pretty between two smaller diamonds on a yellow gold band? And if its appearance wasn’t enviable enough, the backstory is even more charming. Prince Harry told the BBC in an interview that the main stone was sourced from Botswana - a destination he and Meghan had visited early in their relationship - and the side stones came straight from his mother’s jewellery collection.

    Image source: Chris Jackson/Getty Images

    Looking for a cushion cut to call your own? We have an extensive range of designs featuring this timeless cut, including our latest addition to our Class A Collection, Cate. Featuring a claw-set cushion cut diamond with a dainty half round diamond band, this design is soft and feminine but equally as brilliant and eye catching.

    Similarly, our Margot design features a cushion cut centre diamond surrounded by a halo of round brilliants. Paired with a half-set diamond band and subtle split-shoulders, this piece is a show-stopper!

    Margot 

    What do you think of the cushion cut?

    Visit us at Class A Jewellers to see our extensive in-house collection of engagement rings, or choose to have a custom design created just for you using your choice of precious metal and gemstones.