What is diamond shape?
The shape of a Diamond refers to its physical form and geometric appearance, which are arguably a diamond’s most distinguishable features. When shopping for diamond engagement rings and jewellery, the first decision that is usually made is the preferred shape of the diamond, as it hugely affects the piece’s personality and style. The individuality within each cut results in them reflecting and refracting light completely differently, giving each shape its own sparkle and brilliance.
The diamond shapes have two categories: Fancy and Round. Round diamonds, also known as Brilliant Round, are the most traditional diamond shapes. Fancy shaped diamonds simply refer to any diamond that is not a round diamond. Discover more about the most popular diamond shapes and their unique characteristics by reading on!
What are the most popular diamond shapes?
Brilliant Round
The brilliant round is the most popular of all diamond shapes. It is classic, timeless and cut in a way that maximises light dispersion. This is the perfect choice for optimum brilliance and sparkle. A brilliant round diamond ring is the perfect choice for those looking for a simplistic, but stunning aesthetic.
Oval
An oval diamond shape is a more modern alternative to a brilliant round cut, whilst still maintaining elegance and class. The symmetrical and elongated cut can make the diamond appear larger than its actual carat weight. Learn more about diamond carat and the 4C's of a diamond here.
Cushion
The cushion diamond shape works nicely with most ring settings due to its square or rectangular silhouette and rounded corners. Discover our guide to ring settings to find the engagement ring style that is perfect for you! The facets are typically larger and make the dispersion of light appear as flashes rather than the sparkle that the brilliant cut diamond displays.
Princess
Like a cushion cut diamond, a princess cut is square in appearance, but with a cleaner, more contemporary finish. It tends to be the second most popular shape, its symmetry and modern feel making it the choice for many. Classic Princess Rings are timeless in design, and are crafted with precise attention to detail.
Radiant
Radiant cut gemstones hold a rectangular silhouette with trimmed corners, a perfect mixture of the elegance of the emerald cut and the sparkle of a brilliant diamond.
Asscher
An asscher cut diamond is square in appearance with square cut corners. Its steeper facets and deep crown allow this shaped diamond to maximise its sparkle.
Heart
A heart shaped diamond is a unique and unmistakable symbol of love. When choosing a heart, symmetry is a very important characteristic, as it is crucial that the two halves of the heart are identical.
Emerald
The emerald cut is an elegant rectangle silhouette, which is another flattering choice for many finger shapes. The shallow facets make the stone appear more linear and can accentuate the diamond’s clarity and colour. An emerald cut engagement ring demonstrates these qualities with exquisite style and beauty.
Pear
The pear shape features both the characteristics of the brilliant and marquise diamond. This is a flattering option for most finger shapes, and makes for a stunningly unusual diamond. Pear cut diamond engagement rings are crafted with precise attention to detail, and make for an elegant, everlasting piece.
Marquise
Due to its large surface area, a marquise cut diamond can seem large for its carat weight. Its contemporary style is simply stunning, and stands out from the crowd. Marquise rings are truly unique, and are perfect for those who are looking to dazzle and sparkle.
Trillion
A trillion or trilliant diamond has a triangular silhouette with a geometrical aesthetic, as well as sides of equal length. They have sizeable surface areas compared to most other cuts, so appear larger than their actual weight.
Baguette
Featuring just 14 facets, this is the simplest of diamond shapes. Baguette shaped diamonds often feature in a diamond ring by sitting on the shoulder band, as their long rectangular silhouette displays simplicity and elegance.
Get in touch with Bensons of Ludlow
We hope that this guide to the diamond and gemstone shapes has given you a better understanding as to the different diamond cuts that are available, as well as which one is best for you or your partner. However, if you feel that you need some guidance towards your diamond shape choice, then please feel free to get in touch with a member of our team at Bensons of Ludlow. We are happy to answer any questions that you may have!