Which Diamond Cut is Best: Shapes by Popularity
At Artful Bracelets, we provide the top nine diamond shapes that are GIA certified. Although the technical term is diamond shape, it’s commonly referred to as the diamond “cut”.
Round
The round cut is the most favored diamond shape, designed to maximize facets and shine. Now, more than 75% of diamonds worldwide are cut in the brilliant style. Its 58-facet cut adheres to a precise formula for optimal sparkle. Crafting a round diamond involves losing more of the rough stone, making the cost per carat higher. This shape is also popular for other types of jewelry like necklaces and earrings.
Princess
The princess-cut diamond was designed by surveying women to see what they desired, resulting in a cut known for exceptional shine despite its square shape. This cut directs more weight into the diamond’s depth to enhance brilliance, with common depth percentages of 70% to 78%. The ideal square ratio is between 1.00 and 1.05. Protect the corners of a princess cut by setting it with four prongs. With 57 or 58 facets, it’s also referred to as “square modified brilliant” or “rectangular modified brilliant” for ratios over 1.10.
Cushion
Resembling the princess cut, the cushion-cut diamond features a relatively square shape but is available in varied ratios, ranging from square to rectangular. Combining the brilliance of a round cut with the symmetry of a radiant cut, the cushion cut has rounded corners, making it perfect for women with active lifestyles. Known as the “pillow cut,” it has larger facets that enhance brilliance. This cut showcases great fire (a rainbow of colors reflected from the diamond) but larger facets can reveal clarity inclusions, so check the diamond plot or consult a gemologist for clarity.
Oval
Oval diamonds combine the brilliance of round cuts with a unique shape that can attract more attention. This popular cut can appear larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight and is appreciated for its ability to elongate and slenderize fingers. Initially developed to symbolize relationship longevity, the oval cut’s rounded ends may show more color, so it’s advisable to upgrade the color grade to ensure a colorless appearance.
Emerald
One of the oldest diamond cuts, the emerald cut is ideal for both colored gemstones and high-quality diamonds. Known as a “step cut” for its layered faceting, it offers a unique symmetrical sparkle. Its minimal faceting can reveal inclusions and color, making closed or bezel settings preferable for lower color grades. Choosing this cut means prioritizing diamond quality, as the minimalist faceting can make color more apparent.
Pear
The pear-shaped diamond, loved for its unique teardrop shape, features a wide bottom and a pointed tip. With 58 facets, it reflects light similarly to a round brilliant cut. The shape can be worn pointing up or down and often hides inclusions, especially near the tip. The ideal cut ratio is between 1.5 and 1.7. Always safeguard the pointed end with a prong to prevent chipping.
Marquise
The marquise-cut diamond, also known as the football cut, boat cut, eye cut, or navette cut, offers a distinctive shape that enhances a bride’s creativity in ring choice. Resembling a fusion of round and pear shapes, its elongated form can make it appear larger than its actual carat weight. This cut is ideal for showcasing long, slender fingers.
The suggested cut ratio ranges from 1.75 to 2.25.
Asscher
The Asscher cut features a nearly octagonal shape with curved edges, offering a timeless and subtle elegance. Its step-cut facets produce a gentle glow from the stone. This cut fuses elements of the princess and emerald cuts, with X-shaped facets extending from the corners to the center culet. The step cut is particularly effective in highlighting a diamond’s clarity, making it ideal for high-clarity diamonds. It also helps conceal certain inclusions and lower color grades. For square proportions, a cut ratio of 1.00 to 1.05 is recommended.
Radiant
The radiant cut is a beautifully symmetrical and non-traditional shape that merges the brilliance of a round cut with the elegance of an emerald cut. Known for its 70 facets, the radiant cut delivers a fiery brilliance while maintaining softly cut corners. It’s an excellent choice for those who prefer the emerald shape but desire the sparkle of a round cut. A square shape is achieved with a ratio of 1.00 to 1.05, while a ratio of 1.30 to 1.50 results in a rectangular shape.
Lab Diamond Popular Shapes
| Round | Cushion | Oval | Emerald | Princess |
| $1,800 | $1,700 | $1,900 | $1,700 | $1,800 |
Natural Diamond Popular Shapes
| Round | Cushion | Oval | Emerald | Princess |
| $5,800 | $3,900 | $5,000 | $4,500 | $4,600 |
Which diamond cut is the best for me?
If you’re concerned about flattering your hand…
Consider elongated shapes like the oval, emerald, and elongated cushion, which are currently very trendy. These shapes can make your hands and fingers appear longer and slimmer. The pear shape is also very flattering and offers numerous creative options for positioning and band choice.
If you’re concerned about cost…
Opt for an emerald shape instead of the more expensive round cut, which results in more rough diamond loss during the crafting process. Slightly rectangular princess-cut diamonds are also more cost-effective and have an environmental benefit, utilizing up to 80% of the rough diamond.
Ultimately, the best diamond shape is the one that you love the most and would be thrilled to wear every day.
