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When we think about diamonds, many instantly jump to the thought of the classic round diamond shape. Without a doubt, the round classic cut is the most popular shape. However, if you are going for something more unique, then there is an array of different shapes available to choose from.
Although the shape is not part of the 4 Cs of diamonds, this element will surely have an effect on the appearance of the stone. Since every diamond shape is cut to various specifications, they reflect light differently, giving every shape a special fire and brilliance.
Choosing the right diamond shape can be challenging for many people. However, when you are well-informed about the different shapes, you will be able to move through the process more confidently.
Let’s take a look at the 10 most popular and classic shapes in the last 10 years.
1. Pear Shaped Diamonds
The pear-shaped gemstone is just as it sounds, a popular stone shape that resembles a pear. It is thinner on the top and more robust near the bottom, resulting in a rich brilliance and bringing out the color well.
2. Marquise Cut Diamonds
A marquise cut stone features the look of a teardrop and is most commonly associated with engagement or wedding rings for women. The diameter of the diamond is thickest in the middle and creates a radiant brilliance that is perfect for a featured stone in a setting.
3. Princess Cut Diamonds
A princess cut diamond is also referred to as a quadrillion. If you take a look directly down upon the top of a princess cut shaped diamond, it will resemble a square with a great amount of depth. This shape, along with the marquise is commonly used by jewelers since it captures the light brilliantly and makes for an excellent featured stone in a ring setting.
4. Oval Shaped Diamonds
As the name suggests, an oval shaped gemstone has the shape of an oval. Such a shaped diamond cannot be fully bonded, but is still a very popular cut. Typical oval diamond stones do not hide flaws well and the shape can decrease the value of your diamond overtime.
5. Round Shaped Diamonds
Round diamonds resemble their oval cousins, but are virtually a perfect circle if you look directly at them. This is a very classic cut that is popular to this day and showcases the gem very well.
6. Emerald Cut Diamonds
The emerald shape is most commonly associated with the emerald gemstone and has a unique look due to the step cuts of its large, open table and pavilion. It is a rectangle shaped cut that is an excellent choice when you are looking to accentuate the natural color of your precious diamond at the expense of its brilliance.
7. Heart Shaped Diamonds
A heart-shaped diamond has become extremely popular recently and features a shape resembling a heart. The cut itself has its disadvantages to both quality and value of the diamond but it has an evident symbolism that can overcome such deliberations.
8. Asscher Cut Diamonds
The Asscher cut for a diamond was invented in 1902 in Holland by Joseph Asscher, and has become quite popular since. It is a staircased square cut shape that is quite in demand as wedding rings. A large carat diamond is needed for best results in a setting but the outcome is usually stunning.
9. Baguette Cut Diamonds
This is a step cut diamond shape that is often employed as side stones. Since it has few facets, color and quality come into play more as imperfections become more apparent in these uncomplicated yet elegant diamonds.
10. Cushion Cut Diamonds
Also sometimes referred to as “pillow cut”, this diamond shape was very popular in the 1800s. Cut with candlelight in mind, the cushion cut is a square/rectangular shape, with more than a hint of old-world elegance about it.
A lot of people who receive diamonds as a gift for an engagement do have a shape preference, so it is better to find out in advance what your partner prefers. Even though other factors (like quality and price) should be taken into account by the buyer, the choice of shape should include input from the diamond’s recipient, if possible at all. This is especially true for fancy shaped engagement rings.
Choosing the right diamond shape can be more easily accomplished with a little information, knowing your partner’s preference and the help of a professional jeweler.