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Basic diamond shapes to know before buying a ring

Updated: Sep 27, 2022



Diamond shape and cut are often used as interchangeable terms however diamond shape refers to a diamond outline whereas diamond cut refers to the arrangement of the diamond’s facets. The shape of the diamond can be chosen based on personal preference however the diamond cuts are determined by science.


Below are some of the most popular diamond shapes:




Round Brilliant cut Diamonds


The most popular type of diamond shape, this cut is designed to produce the most sparkle and brilliance. Even if the face-up area is smaller the sparkle will enhance the diamond and make it appear bigger.




Miranda Kerr and Evan Spiegel’s engagement ring is a round brilliant cut diamond flanked by tapered baguettes on a platinum band.


Princess cut diamonds


They are seen in both square and rectangular shapes. The color of diamonds is generally showcased in the center of a diamond however with this shape the colors reach the corners as well. These diamonds are very versatile looking good in any setting.




Hilary Duff and Mike Comrie although they are not together when he asked her the big question proposed a 14-carat princess-cut stone worth a reported $1 million.


Marquis-Cut Diamonds


A beautifully unique shape that makes the wearer's fingers appear longer and slender. This shape is ideal for maximizing the carat weight and portraying the size of the diamond.




Among the vast number of engagement rings Victoria Beckham has, the first was when David Beckham proposed with a stunning three-carat marquise-cut diamond set on a plain yellow gold band costing around $85,000 at that time.


Heard about Victoria Beckham's 15 engagement ring collection? Find out here.


Cushion-Cut Diamonds


Also known as pillow-cut diamond because of its pillow-like shape. They are also available in square and rectangular shapes. The rounded corners and larger facets give more clarity and brilliance to the appearance of the diamond.




Kim Kardashian West has a 15-carat D, flawless cushion-cut diamond engagement ring from Kanye West.


Emerald-Cut Diamonds


These diamonds display beautifully the clarity of the diamond on its large rectangular surface giving more focus on the color. They have step cuts that reflect light and give the “hall of mirror” effect.




Jennifer Lopez and Alex Rodriguez's engagement ring was a beautiful 16-carat emerald diamond that glistened in the setting sun.


Radiant- Cut Diamonds


These diamonds have trimmed corners along with a few similarities to the emerald cut and the brilliance of a round-shaped diamond.




Jennifer Aniston and Justin Theroux got engaged with a reported 8-carat radiant-cut diamond.


Pear-Shaped Diamonds


This teardrop-shaped diamond is a combination of round and marquis-style cuts. It creates a lovely delicate look to the wearer's fingers while producing maximum brilliance.




Offset gave Cardi B an engagement ring of an eight-carat pear-shaped diamond.


Oval diamonds


This classic shape is a great pair with other diamonds and jewelry. It was the brilliance similar to that of a round brilliant cut but also accentuates long, slender fingers. It is 10-30% more affordable than round diamonds with a larger surface area.




Hailey Baldwin Bieber got a stunning six to 10-carat oval diamond from her husband, Justin Bieber.


Asscher-Cut Diamonds


Although it looks similar to an emerald cut however this shape is square in contrast to the rectangular-shaped emerald cut.




Pippa Middleton and James Matthews sealed their relationship with a large Asscher-cut diamond surrounded by a cluster of smaller diamonds.


Heart cut diamonds


Romantic tokens of affection that have a delicate heart shape cut to it.




Lady Gaga was proposed to by Taylor Kinney with a 6-carat heart-shaped diamond a perfect symbol of love and affection.


How to choose the right shape?


Before buying the diamond make sure to think it through. Below are a few things you need to keep in mind while deciding on a diamond.


  1. Style: whether for yourself or your loved one ensure that you understand the style preference. Go through the variety of shapes above to help make that decision as well as jewelry they already own.


  1. More shine: More facets a diamond will have the more it will sparkle and shine. Some types of sparkly diamonds include round, princess, and Asscher.


  1. Design: The ring design would help accentuate the diamond. Pay attention to good shape and design pairs for the best results.


  1. Budget: make sure to set your budget beforehand. This will help make decisions easier when shopping for the perfect diamond.


Looking for the perfect diamond or diamond jewelry? Reach out to us our team of diamond dealers and we can help you to find the diamond you want. Have a glimpse at what we have in store for you - here.


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