The timeless debate in diamond cuts revolves around the round vs. princess cut diamonds. Round diamond engagement rings have been a classic for nearly a century, while princess cut engagement rings have grown in popularity due to their contemporary and edgy style.
Round Cut Diamonds
Introduced in 1919 by Marcel Tolkowsky, round diamonds remain the gold standard in engagement rings. These diamonds typically exhibit fewer flaws and higher clarity, with their multifaceted cut hiding minor imperfections through their brilliant sparkle.
The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) has a diamond cut scale for round diamonds, making comparisons more straightforward. Unfortunately, other diamond cuts don’t have a standardized GIA scale, as their refractive qualities can vary across different shapes, lengths, and widths.
Besides their superior refractive quality, round diamond engagement rings are practical in terms of cost and durability. Round diamonds are readily available as loose diamonds, accommodating various budget needs. Additionally, their clean, rounded edges reduce the risk of chipping or snagging on fabric, unlike princess diamonds.
Round diamonds are also highly versatile in style, often featured in solitaire or two and three-stone rings. They can be paired with other bands or presented stunningly in halo arrangements.
Princess Cut Diamonds
The princess cut, the second most popular and undoubtedly more modern diamond cut, was created by Arpad Nagy in 1961 and gained fame through Betazel Ambar and Israel Itzkowitz in 1980. These diamonds are usually cut into square shapes, though square cuts tend to be more costly than rectangular ones.
Princess diamonds are generally more affordable than round ones because they closely mimic the rough diamond’s natural shape, retaining more of the original weight during polishing. For instance, while a rough diamond typically retains 40% of its original carat weight, a princess cut can retain 80% to 90%.
Although less expensive, princess diamonds don’t refract light as effectively as round diamonds. While no diamond cut can achieve 100% light refraction, the round brilliant cut is the industry standard, with princess diamonds achieving about 70% refractive quality.
Princess diamonds excel in intricate ring designs, such as channel, floral filigree, cushion princess settings, and elaborate vintage designs. They’re also commonly incorporated into three-stone engagement rings.
Diamond Ring Styles
When choosing a diamond engagement ring, consider the wearer’s hand size. Those with smaller hands might prefer the subtlety of round diamonds, whereas the contemporary princess diamond might better suit larger hands.
Ultimately, personal taste should guide the selection of an engagement ring. However, diamond experts often recommend giving priority to the cut over color or clarity. A poorly cut diamond can diminish its sparkling brilliance, resulting in a less attractive gem. Whether opting for a princess or a round diamond, prioritize the cut above all else.
Trellis Solitaire Engagement Ring
This exquisite ring highlights the beauty of princess cut diamonds.
Double Row Diamond Engagement Ring
This petite setting is complemented by two rows of pave set diamonds.
Under Bezeled Accent Diamond Engagement Ring
The under-bezel shared prong accent diamonds appear to float beside your center stone.
French Cut Pave Diamond Engagement Ring
Petite French set pave diamonds accentuate your center stone with an additional 1/5 cts.
Twisting Vine Diamond Ring
Intertwined metal and diamonds rise like a ribbon to your center stone.
Round diamond engagement rings boast a timeless appeal that will remain fashionable for years to come. Princess diamonds, on the other hand, offer an elegant and regal sparkle, making them an excellent choice for proposals.
