Diamond Shapes

Diamond Handbook - Shapes. The Art of Diamond Cutting

What is Diamond Shape?

Diamond shape refers to the geometric outline or form of the diamond when viewed from above. The shape is created by the way the diamond is cut and polished, and it significantly affects the diamond's appearance, brilliance, and value. While cut refers to how well the diamond reflects light, shape refers to the overall form of the stone.

Round Brilliant Cut

The round brilliant cut is the most popular and classic diamond shape, accounting for approximately 75% of all diamonds sold. It features 58 facets and is designed to maximize brilliance and fire.

Key Features:

  • Maximum brilliance and fire
  • 58 facets for optimal light reflection
  • Excellent for hiding inclusions
  • Most expensive per carat
  • Timeless and classic appeal

Princess Cut

The princess cut is a square or rectangular shape with pointed corners and is the second most popular diamond shape. It offers excellent brilliance and a modern, contemporary look.

Key Features:

  • Square or rectangular shape
  • Excellent brilliance and fire
  • Modern and contemporary appeal
  • Good value compared to round
  • Can appear larger than round diamonds

Emerald Cut

The emerald cut features a rectangular shape with cut corners and step-cut facets. It has a sophisticated, elegant appearance and is known for its clarity and transparency.

Key Features:

  • Rectangular with cut corners
  • Step-cut facets for elegance
  • Shows clarity characteristics
  • Sophisticated and vintage appeal

Oval Cut

The oval cut is an elongated version of the round brilliant cut. It offers excellent brilliance and can make the finger appear longer and more slender.

Key Features:

  • Elongated round shape
  • Excellent brilliance and fire
  • Makes finger appear longer
  • Good value compared to round
  • Classic yet distinctive

Pear Cut

The pear cut combines the brilliance of a round cut with the elegance of a marquise cut. It has a teardrop shape that is both classic and unique.

Key Features:

  • Teardrop shape
  • Excellent brilliance and fire
  • Unique and distinctive
  • Good value compared to round
  • Can appear larger than round diamonds

Marquise Cut

The marquise cut features an elongated shape with pointed ends. It creates the illusion of a larger diamond and can make the finger appear longer and more slender.

Key Features:

  • Elongated with pointed ends
  • Good brilliance and fire
  • Makes finger appear longer
  • Excellent value for size
  • Distinctive and elegant

Cushion Cut

The cushion cut has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners and large facets. It offers a romantic, vintage appeal with excellent brilliance.

Key Features:

  • Square or rectangular with rounded corners
  • Large facets for vintage appeal
  • Good brilliance and fire
  • Romantic and vintage look
  • Good value compared to round

Heart Cut

The heart cut is a romantic and distinctive shape that requires excellent cutting to achieve proper symmetry. It's perfect for those who want a unique and meaningful diamond.

Key Features:

  • Romantic heart shape
  • Requires excellent cutting
  • Unique and meaningful
  • Good brilliance when well-cut
  • Perfect for romantic occasions

Radiant Cut

The radiant cut combines the elegance of an emerald cut with the brilliance of a round cut. It features cut corners and a brilliant facet pattern.

Key Features:

  • Square or rectangular with cut corners
  • Brilliant facet pattern
  • Excellent brilliance and fire
  • Modern and sophisticated
  • Good value for size

Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut is a square step-cut diamond with cut corners. It has a vintage, Art Deco appeal and is known for its clarity and transparency.

Key Features:

  • Square with cut corners
  • Step-cut facets
  • Vintage Art Deco appeal
  • Shows clarity characteristics
  • Sophisticated and elegant

Choosing the Right Shape

When selecting a diamond shape, consider your personal style, the recipient's preferences, and your budget. Each shape has its own unique characteristics and appeal.

Round brilliant diamonds are the most popular and offer maximum brilliance, but they also command the highest prices. Fancy shapes like princess, emerald, and oval cuts offer excellent value and unique appeal.

Consider the setting style and the wearer's lifestyle when choosing a shape. Some shapes may be more practical for everyday wear, while others may be better suited for special occasions.

Shape and Price

Round brilliant diamonds are typically the most expensive per carat due to their popularity and the amount of rough diamond material lost during cutting. Fancy shapes often offer better value and can appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight.

Solitaire Stories Shape Selection

At Solitaire Stories, we offer diamonds in all popular shapes to suit every taste and preference. Our expert team can help you find the perfect shape that matches your style, budget, and the recipient's preferences.