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Compare Diamond Shapes & Cuts IGTV
Back to basics: This is a full breakdown of the different diamond shapes! It can often be a confusing topic when discussing length-to-width ratios, dimensions, and the 4 C’s, but most people actually just have a hard time communicating the shape of diamond that they want. To help guide you in the right direction, we have a diamond shape chart that is featured all over our store and used for appointments as well as on our website. We use it to help distinguish the shapes from each other and help our clients use the terminology they need to properly convey the details of their dream ring!
Which Diamond Shape is Right for You?
Note to clients: Some clients come in asking for a “solitaire” shape: this term actually references a RING style that means there are no other diamonds or stones on the ring except for the center stone. All of the ring styles featured in the video are set in solitaire settings to keep the focus on the center stone shape.
Round
The first shape is a round brilliant diamond, which references its circular shape and brilliant-cut facet arrangement.
Cushion
Next up is the cushion cut, which is very popular! It still has a soft, rounded appearance, but it is definitely a square stone. The sides bow out slightly and the corners are typically curved.
To compare, elongated cushions are only distinguished from standard square cushions by their length and width measurements – if the cushion contains a noticeably longer length side, it is considered to be elongated!
Radiant
Many people confuse elongated cushions with radiant-cut stones, however, they are actually very different! Both cuts are considered internally brilliant, but the radiant has cut corners and very straight sides. It presents as a very angular look compared to the cushion, however, both shapes come in square and elongated options!
Princess
The next featured shape is the princess cut. Princess, or square brilliant, is classic but not quite as popular as the other cuts (this year!). It is perfectly square-shaped with straight sides and pointed corners, and shows incredible sparkle!
Oval
You probably recognize the next shape: oval diamonds have significantly increased in popularity over the past few years! The oval shape is an elongated, softer stone – and depending on client preference can be purchased in shorter and wider variations, as well as longer and narrower options. It still maintains a brilliant facet arrangement, and is perfect for clients looking for maximum finger coverage!
Pear & Marquise
For more options of elongated brilliant cuts, consider the pear or marquise. Pears feature a full, curved side, called the belly, and come to a point, or a tip. The marquise shape is pointed on both ends with two tips and rounds out its belly at the widest section in the center. These shapes typically look larger than stones like round or princess because more weight is distributed in the surface area of the stone.
Emerald & Asscher
Last but certainly not least, we have our step-cut options of emerald and Asscher. “Step cut” facets are arranged in parallel lines, whereas brilliant-cut facets are smaller and more condensed. The emerald cut is an elongated step cut, while Asscher cuts are often described as a “square emerald”. Step cut stones refract light differently than brilliant ones, but are no less beautiful: Asscher cuts can actually show more sparkle than you think because the facets are cut closely together in a “windowed” effect!
That wraps up all the diamond shapes but if you have any questions or are looking to shop for your own diamond, Please feel free to reach out to us at info@laurenb.com.
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