When you think of diamonds, you might picture the classic round diamond shape, which is by far the most popular. But if you’re looking for something different, there are plenty of other shapes available to match your distinct style and taste. Since each diamond shape is cut to different specifications, they reflect light differently, giving each shape its own fire and brilliance.
Popular Diamond Shapes
Choosing the right diamond can be difficult for many people. We hope this information provides you with a basic understanding so you can confidently move through the process going forward. At Wixon, we strive to offer our clients the highest quality diamonds and carry the largest selection of loose diamonds in Minnesota. Our collection of diamond jewelry features many different shape options, ranging from traditional to fancy. Below you will find a comprehensive list of the most popular diamond shapes and their characteristics.
Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds
The round brilliant cut is the most popular shape of diamond. For hundreds of years, diamond cutters have been working with this cut to maximize its brilliance and fire. While this cut offers great flexibility within the four Cs, you will want to select higher quality grades to bring out the most brilliance within a round diamond.
Princess-Cut Diamonds
Princess-cut diamonds are available in both square and rectangular shapes and are exceptionally brilliant because of the way they are cut. The color emitted from princess-cut diamonds is very unique. While the color of other diamonds is displayed mainly in the center, the princess-cut diamonds show distinct color in each of the corners, as well.
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Marquise-Cut Diamonds
Marquise-cut diamonds are the perfect shape for maximizing carat weight by emphasizing the size of the diamond. Its unique shape makes the hands and fingers of its wearer appear longer and more slender. The outline of a diamond is determined by its length to width ratio, which also provides an idea of the shape and look of the diamond.
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Cushion-Cut Diamonds
Sometimes called a pillow-cut diamond, the cushion-cut is a timeless cut that earned its name for its pillow-like shape. Cushion-cut diamonds tend to have impeccable brilliance and clarity in their appearance thanks to their rounded corners and larger facets. These diamonds are available in square and rectangular shapes.
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Emerald-Cut Diamonds
Emerald-cut diamonds have a unique optical appearance because of the rectangular facets step-cut into the diamond’s pavilion. This cut showcases the diamond’s original clarity beautifully because of its large rectangular table which also makes inclusions and color more apparent.
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Radiant-Cut Diamonds
Radiant-cut diamonds feature uniquely trimmed corners that combine the lines of an emerald-cut with the brilliance of a round diamond. The sparkle of this diamond cut looks beautiful when combined with a variety of other diamond cuts.
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Pear-Shaped Diamonds
Combining round and marquise cuts, the teardrop style of pear shaped diamonds is exceptional. The slender pear shape gives fingers and hands a slimmer appearance while creating a soft and delicate look. Pear shaped diamonds are cut to produce maximum brilliance, so it’s important to look for excellent symmetry.
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Oval Diamonds
Oval diamonds have a classic appearance with a modern twist. It is a popular cut in all types of jewelry, especially in engagement rings, making it easy to match with other jewelry. It has an incredible brilliance, similar to the round brilliant cut, but also has the advantage of accentuating long, slender finders.
Asscher-Cut Diamonds
Asscher-cut diamonds are often mistaken for an emerald-cut due to their similar cut style. However, an asscher is square as opposed to rectangular. Created in the early 1920s, the Asscher-cut has recently resurged in popularity, especially amongst celebrities.