When thinking of diamonds, one may picture the classic shaped round diamond which is definitely the most popular. However, if you are seeking something different, there are various shapes available that will compliment your distinct style and taste. It is important to understand that each diamond shape is cut to different specifications, making them reflect light differently, thus giving each shape a factor of unique brilliance.

It is often quite daunting and difficult when it comes to choosing the right diamond. This blog will provide a general understanding of diamond shapes and is here to assist you with moving through choosing the correct diamond shape for you. Below you will find a complete list of the most common diamond shapes as well as their characteristics.

Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds

This cut is by far the most common and popular shape of diamond. However, you will want to select higher quality grades to bring out the most brilliance and fire within the rounded shape. This rounded cut is definitely a traditional favourite for engagement rings as it offers timeless beauty that never goes out of style. It can also be illustrated as the symbol for eternity and completion as the circle has a long-standing history as a meaningful representation of the promise of a lifelong love and commitment. The round brilliant cut diamond is also a popular shape as it flatters all finger lengths and shapes.

Princess-Cut Diamonds

These shaped diamonds are available in both rectangular and square shapes. The princess-cut diamonds are exceptionally brilliant due to the way they are cut and the colour they emit which is highly unique. While the colour of other diamonds is displayed mainly in the centre, the princess-cut diamond showcases distinct colour in each of the corners making it stand out to the other shapes. During the cutting process, 80% of the rough stone is retained when cutting a princess shape, thus making it a more economical choice than the rounded cut which retains only 50% of the rough stone. The princess cut portrays a stylish appearance with its clean lines and angles, making it an elegant choice.

Marquise-Cut Diamonds

Marquise-cut diamonds are the ideal shape of diamond when it comes to maximising carat weight by putting emphasis on the size of the diamond. This diamond shape is unique and tends to make the hands and fingers of its wearer appear longer as well as more slender. The marquise-cut is the perfect diamond for individuals that prefer their diamond to look as strikingly large as possible. The associated personality traits include extroverted, innovative, ambitious as well as those who are passionate about confronting the challenges of life. This eye-catching cut envisages a rare and unrivalled charm.

Cushion-Cut Diamonds

The cushion-cut diamond shape, also known as a pillow-cut diamond is a timeless cut that has achieved its name due to its pillow-like shape. This diamond is an outstanding cut with an appearance that conveys flawless brilliance and clarity, thanks to their rounded corners and larger facets. A cushion cut, typically, doesn’t retain colour as well as other cuts, so a diamond with a colour grade of at least H is recommended for this cut. However, the cushion-cut is one of the most favourable cuts for fancy colour diamonds due to the shape and cut of the diamond boasting the vibrancy of a fancy colour diamond. A cushion cut resonates with a more traditional, pre-modern cut, yet it portrays the brilliance and scintillation brought out from modern cutting and polishing techniques, thus making it the perfect fusion of traditional design and modern-day technology.

Emerald-Cut Diamonds

The Emerald-cut diamond has an exclusive optical appearance because of the rectangular facets step-cut into the diamond’s pavilion. This cut illustrates the diamond’s original clarity beautifully due to its sizable rectangular table which also makes inclusions and colour more apparent. This cut establishes flashes of light that have a ‘hall of mirrors effect’, however it appears less fiery. Although it appears less fiery, its long lines and dramatic flashes of light, stark an elegant and sophisticated appearance. The emerald-cut can be associated with organised, resourceful and disciplined personalities with its vintage appeal, symbolising a more antique-style jewellery.

Radiant-Cut Diamonds

This cut of diamond showcases uniquely trimmed corners that accentuate the lines of an emerald-cut with the brilliance of a round diamond. The facets of the radiant cut form the image of cracked ice within the diamond which is truly unique characteristic that sets it apart from other diamond cuts. Due to a radiant cut diamond being known for its brilliance and kaleidoscope of colours, it necessitates a skilful eye as well as a detailed precision of master craftsmanship. The radiant-cut diamond resonates with energetic, social and spirited personalities and eludes to a more practical choice for an active lifestyle.

Pear-Shaped Diamonds

The pear-shaped diamond, also known as a “teardrop shaped diamond” is one of the most recognised diamond shapes. This shape is considered a cross between the round shape and the marquise shape and has 58 facets. This diamond shape is generally cut in the brilliant style and is a unique hybrid cut that is well proportioned, as it offers a depth of scintillation to the point of the diamond. The pear-shaped diamond is one of the diamond shapes that displays colour the strongest, but once the stone is larger than one carat, it may showcase a bit of darkness towards the point. The pear-shaped diamond possesses a majestic quality to it and is a stunning alternative for the woman with alternative taste. Personality traits associated with this shape involve considerate, adventurous, sociable and adaptable.

Oval Diamonds

The oval shaped diamond refers to an elongated version of a round brilliant diamond. When this shape is well cut and proportioned, it portrays great brilliance, fire and scintillation. The oval diamond has 56 to 58 facets, and due to its similar fire and brilliance seen in the round diamond, the oval is an ideal choice for the buyer who likes the look of a round diamond but wants something a little bit more unique. Oval diamonds have personality traits associated with creativity, individualism and risk-taking and is a popular diamond shape among the rich and famous.

Asscher-Cut Diamonds

Asscher-cut diamonds are regularly mistaken for an emerald-cut due to their similar cut style. However, an asscher-cut is square as opposed to rectangular. The asscher-cut is a 57-facet diamond is recognised for its deep pavilion, faceted culet, high crown and small table. This combination commonly gives it more brilliance than that of the emerald cut. Its distinctive appearance sets it apart, and it appeals to those who want something out of the ordinary, but still beautiful and refined. The asscher-cut is a perfect example of an old diamond cut that never went out of style, and thanks to its timeless beauty, is as popular today as when it was first created.