What diamond cut is best for my engagement ring? The cut is important because it influences both the style of your ring, as well as the radiance of your diamond. Here we take a look at the different diamond cuts and shapes, their benefits, and the types of hands they suit.
What does ‘diamond cut’ mean?
The term ‘diamond cut’ actually refers to 2 aspects of a diamond:
1. Firstly, it refers to quality – In other words, the skill of the craftsperson who carved the rough stone into a faceted gem. The quality of the cut determines, amongst other things, how much your diamond sparkles.
2. Secondly, it refers to shape – In other words, whether your diamond is round, rectangular, oval or any other shape.
Here are some popular diamond shapes:
So what QUALITY of cut should I look for?
Remember, cut quality determines how well your diamond plays with light; or sparkles, in layman terms.
Diamond cuts are graded from poor to excellent.
As a rule of thumb, look for a minimum ‘good’ cut.
What diamond shape should I look for?
Different diamond shapes have different characteristics.
Some sparkle more than others. Some can also suit different hand shapes better.
Here are the most popular diamond shapes and the pros and cons of each:
1. Round cut
This is the most popular cut and also the sparkliest of all diamond shapes.
Most of the rough diamond is lost when cutting and therefore round diamonds are slightly more expensive than other diamond shapes.
Over 75% of diamond engagement rings sold are round cuts.
Available in many sizes, the round suits all hand sizes and shapes, because it always looks proportionate and does not overpower the finger.
2. Princess cut
First introduced in the 1970’s, the princess cut diamond is square.
Just like the round cut, it has a large number of facets and offers exceptional sparkle.
It’s a modern alternative to the round cut. Its square shape easily disguises inclusions, meaning it looks beautiful in all carat sizes.
It flatters all types of hands.
Its geometric shape tends to appeal to those who like contemporary jewellery.
3. Emerald cut
This rectangular cut offers long, sustained flashes of light – as opposed to the overall sparkle of round or princess cut diamonds.
It has large facets, which notably create a ‘box of mirrors’ effect when you peer inside the stone.
A vintage cut, it has become more and more popular in recent times.
The emerald cut has a slimming and elongating effect on the fingers, making it a perfect shape for someone with wide, short hands.
4. Marquise cut
The marquise cut is a tapered cut, like two half circles joined together.
If you’re looking for a sophisticated cut to slim and elongate the finger, the marquise diamond could be for you.
Dating back to the 18th century, the name marquise is derived from the title that was above a count; courtiers used to wear marquise cut diamonds as a symbol of their rank.
The large, long surface area makes the diamond look bigger than it actually is and offers a unique style.
5. Oval cut
Much like the round cut, oval cut diamonds offer outstanding brilliance and fire.
Although a little less traditional than the round cut, oval cut diamonds look good on all hand shapes.
Those who are looking for the incredible sparkle and classic elegance of round diamonds, but want something a little out of the ordinary, should buy the oval cut.
It also gives the illusion of being larger than it actually is, due to its elongated shape.
6. Pear shaped
A stunning combination of a marquise and oval cut, resembling a teardrop, the pear shaped diamond was created to offer maximum brilliance and fire.
Pear shaped diamonds first date back to the 1450’s.
Also known as a teardrop diamond, due to its rounded bottom and single point top, the pear cut is regarded as a glamorous vintage-style cut.
While it suits most hand types, it’s particularly great for someone with shorter hands, as it appears to elongate the finger.
7. Cushion cut
The cushion cut is a square cut with rounded corners.
Before the round cut came along in the beginning of the 20th century, it used to be the most sought-after diamond style.
Combining a vintage feel with modern brilliance, cushion cuts really grab the eye thanks to their substantial inner fire and sparkle.
This cut is suited to brides who like lavish vintage looks and is flattering on wide fingers.
In conclusion – What diamond cut is best for my engagement ring?
Ultimately, all cuts are unique and beautiful in their own way and your final decision is down to personal preference.
If unsure, however, we would advise you to go for a classic round brilliant cut diamond solitaire ring with a minimum cut quality of good or very good.
It’s the most popular diamond shape, ever, thanks to its superior brilliance and versatility.
Shop more engagement rings at TheDiamondStore.co.uk.
Discover more
- How to Choose a Diamond Shape
- Diamonds: 5 Questions People Most Often Ask
- What Size Carat Engagement Ring? 12 Tips
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