The Ultimate Guide to Princess Cut Diamonds

In the diamond realm, princess cut diamonds truly reign. As one of the popular square cut diamonds, they are just behind round diamonds in popularity. These stones, much like their higher-ranking counterparts, are brilliant cut and exhibit a square, sometimes rectangular, shape with pointed corners and up to 76 small facets. You may spot them labeled as “square modified brilliant” on a GIA report. Originating in the United States, these stones not only have a stunning sparkle and striking corners but also possess faceting that minimizes the visibility of flaws or inclusions. To delve further into the history, origin, and popularity of princess cut diamonds, read on.

A staggering 30% of engagement rings feature the princess cut diamond, maintaining its position as the second most sought-after diamond shape. Perhaps this is due to its timeless allure. When viewed upside down, they appear pyramid-shaped, with their four pointed corners adding a subtle edge to the feminine sparkle. This charming cut is not limited to princess cut diamond engagement rings but also graces necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and more.

When the Princess Cut Started and How it Got its Name

The history of the princess cut can be a bit murky. Many attribute its origins to the 1970s with the introduction of the Barion Cut by Basil Watermeyer, which combined elements of the emerald cut and marquise cut. However, the true roots of the princess cut date back to 1961, when Arpad Nagy, a London-based diamond cutter, created the profile cut, now known as the princess cut. The name was later popularized by Betzalel Ambar, Ygal Perlman, and Israel Itzkowitz.

Princess Diamond Popularity

We could tell you that the princess diamond is the second most purchased stone (it is) and that it surpasses the cushion cut (it does). But these statistics might be unnecessary. The allure of the princess cut lies in its bold lines and subtle drama. Many brides-to-be appreciate the combination of feminine sparkle and architectural edge, thanks to its sharp corners. Celebrity endorsements further enhance its appeal, with famous figures sporting engagement rings featuring princess cut diamonds:

• Emily Ratajkowski’s unique engagement ring featuring a princess cut and pear-shaped diamond on a gold band
• Cameron Diaz’s bezel-set princess diamond solitaire engagement ring with a wide gold band
• Jaime Pressly’s 3-stone princess cut diamond ring with diamond halos
• Carrie Ann Inaba’s 2.5-carat princess cut solitaire with a D color stone
• Sherri Shepherd’s ring, featuring a princess cut center stone and a channel-set princess cut band
• Kendra Wilkinson’s engagement ring with a princess diamond and a split shank design
• Snooki’s sizeable princess cut solitaire engagement ring set in a pave band
• Star Jones’ 7-carat princess cut ring with baguette stones

Princess Cut Diamond Pricing

Princess cut diamonds are known for their manufacturing efficiency, utilizing around 60% – 70% of the rough diamond, resulting in minimal waste. This efficiency typically results in lower costs compared to round brilliant diamonds of the same carat weight. However, due to the popularity of the princess cut, prices may be higher than other fancy shapes like the radiant or pear-shaped diamond.

The price of a princess cut diamond is influenced by the 4 Cs of diamonds. Cut is crucial as it determines the brilliance or sparkle of the stone. Opt for an excellent cut, polish, and symmetry to ensure your diamond retains its dazzling beauty. Our expert gemologists can assist you in maximizing your budget and finding the best stone possible. They will guide you through an in-depth diamond search, ensuring you get a head-turning stone without overspending. You’ll need to decide the length to width ratio based on personal preference, determining whether your princess diamond will be square or rectangular.

Princess cuts tend to have more weight in their center, making them deeper stones compared to round brilliants. As a result, they may appear smaller at the same carat weight. Inform your gemologist if size is a priority for you.

Princess Diamond Guide: Understanding Depth and Length to Width Ratio

Princess cuts can be either square or rectangular. For a square princess cut, the ideal length to width ratio is 1.00 to 1.04, while a rectangular princess cut should have a ratio of 1.07 to 1.15. Here are the proportion ranges for princess cut diamonds and their respective cut grades. When shopping at Artful Bracelets, simply let an expert gemologist know your preferred shape. They will help you find the right ratio to achieve your desired look with your princess cut diamond ring.

Princess Diamond Depth %

Excellent: 75%-66%

Very Good: 78%-62%

Good: 81%-55%

Princess Diamond Table %

Excellent: 75%-66%

Very Good: 77%-62%

Good: 82%-55%

Length to Width Ratio in Princess Diamonds

1.00

1.05

1.10

Size Chart for Princess Diamonds

Princess cut diamonds have approximate millimeter sizes that correspond to specific carat weights. This information is helpful when choosing the size for your princess cut engagement ring. Below, you will find a chart featuring popular princess cut diamond sizes and their carat weights. For a comprehensive guide on all sizes and shapes, visit our diamond size chart page with carat and mm measurements for every diamond shape.

Engagement Ring Styles for Princess Cut Diamonds

While princess cut diamonds are popular in various types of jewelry, they truly stand out in engagement ring settings. The bold corners of this cut make it an excellent choice for a solitaire, but there are many other options to consider. When comparing a princess cut vs. round cut, some may feel the former appears smaller face-up. However, princess cut halo engagement rings are a stunning way to make the center stone appear larger. Moreover, princess cuts can be up to 25%-40% less expensive than round cuts, offering significant savings.

Customizing Your Princess Cut Diamond Ring

That’s one reason why you’ll see many halo engagement rings featuring princess cut diamonds. If you prefer something more unique, don’t worry—this diamond shape is incredibly versatile. It looks just as stunning in a split shank setting as it does in a square engagement ring with a halo. (Not all halos are the same, by the way.) The choice of metal also makes a big difference. Whether you opt for a platinum or white gold setting, a princess cut engagement ring is timeless. For a more romantic or vintage feel, consider yellow gold, along with design elements like milgrain and filigree.

In summary, even if you love the classic look of this cut, don’t be constrained by choosing a loose princess cut diamond. It can easily be transformed into an engagement ring as unique and impressive as you (or your special someone).