EDUCATION

Diamond Shape

Diamonds are available in an array of different shapes and each shape possesses its own set of unique qualities. Discover more about some of the most popular diamond shapes below.

Round

The round cut diamond is by far the most popular diamond shape. Virtually all round diamonds are brilliant cut which means they are cut to have 58 facets in order to maximise fire and brilliance.

Princess

The princess cut diamond has four pointed corners and is traditionally square in shape, however some are slightly rectangular also. The princess cut diamond is the second most popular shape (after the Round Brilliant) as it is cut in a way that accentuates the fire and brilliance of the diamond. Princess cut diamonds should always be set in a way that protects the pointed four corners as this is where the diamond is most likely to chip.

Pear

The pear shaped diamond resembles a teardrop – a combination of elements from both the round brilliant and the marquise shape. By wearing a pear shaped diamond pointing outwards to the tips of the fingers, it creates a slimming effect on the hand. Like the marquise, symmetry precision is an important factor for the pear shape.

 

Oval

An oval diamond is similar to the round brilliant cut diamond as it is cut in the same style to maximise fire and brilliance of the stone. The elongated, elliptical shape of the oval cut diamond can make the finger appear more slender.

 

Cushion

The cushion cut diamond is square or rectangular with rounded corners, like that of a pillow or cushion. Cushion cut diamonds have large facets to increase their brilliance.


Radiant

The radiant cut diamond is square or rectangular in shape with cropped corners, not dissimilar to the emerald or Asscher cut. However, the radiant cut diamond is cut in a style more similar to the round brilliant to create a more ‘lively’, vibrant stone. The radiant cut diamond is the perfect compromise when it comes to those looking for a rectangular diamond, yet with the fire and brilliance of a round brilliant.

Emerald

As the name suggests, the emerald cut was originally designed solely for emeralds. Emerald cut diamonds are traditionally rectangular shaped with bevelled corners and elongated, open facets which highlight the clarity of the diamond. These rows of narrow facets are known as step cuts and produce a ‘hall of mirrors’ effect.

 

Marquise

The marquise diamond is cut in a similar way to the round brilliant, yet rather than being circular in shape, it is cut into an elongated ‘boat-shape’ to maximise carat weight and give the illusion of a larger stone. Symmetry is an important factor with this shape as even a minor misalignment can make the stone appear unbalanced when set.


Asscher

The Asscher cut diamond was named after its creator, Joseph Asscher. It is very similar to the emerald cut yet is square in shape and with larger facets. The Asscher cut has cropped, bevelled corners like the emerald cut however due to its square shape, the Asscher cut can visually appear more octagonal. As this cut highlights the clarity of the diamond, it is best for diamonds with a high clarity grade.

Heart

The heart-shaped diamond is a modified brilliant cut of which the outline can vary greatly (from a narrow heart to a ‘plump’ heart). Symmetry plays an important role in heart-shaped diamonds as it essential that both halves appear equal.


Baguette

The baguette cut diamond is rectangular in shape with elongated, open facets. Baguette cuts are most often used only for smaller side stones and available in both straight and tapered varieties.

 

Trapezoid/TrapezeCut

The trapezoid, or trapeze cut diamond is a four sided shape with two parallel sides and two that slant inwards. Trapezoid diamonds are cut in either the brilliant style or step cut like that of an emerald cut diamond. Trapezoids are most commonly used as side stones as their shape enables them to be nestled either side of many of the other shapes.


Trilliant/Trillion

The trilliant cut diamond is triangular in shape with three equal straight or slightly curved sides. The points of a trilliant can also vary from sharp and defined to more soft and rounded. Trilliant cut diamonds are utilised as either the features stone or side stones, however the latter is more common.