Diamond Shapes
Discover the unique characteristics, brilliance, and beauty of different diamond cuts and shapes
Diamond shape refers to the geometric outline of the diamond when viewed from above. Each shape has its own unique character, brilliance pattern, and appeal. While round diamonds remain the most popular, fancy shapes offer distinctive beauty and often better value.
Round Brilliant
The Classic Choice
The round brilliant cut is the most popular diamond shape, representing about 75% of all diamonds sold. It offers maximum brilliance and fire due to its 57-58 optimally placed facets.
- • Maximum light performance
- • Most researched and perfected cut
- • Timeless and versatile
- • Only shape with GIA cut grades
Best For
- • Traditional engagement rings
- • Maximum brilliance seekers
- • Classic, timeless style preferences
- • Investment-minded buyers
Pricing
Premium pricing due to popularity and light performance. Expect to pay 10-20% more than comparable fancy shapes.
Princess Cut
Modern Brilliance
The princess cut is the most popular fancy shape, featuring a square outline with brilliant-cut faceting. It offers excellent brilliance and contemporary appeal.
- • Second most popular shape
- • Excellent brilliance and fire
- • Contemporary, geometric appeal
- • Good value compared to round
Considerations
- • Sharp corners need protection in setting
- • Look for length-to-width ratio of 1.00-1.05
- • May show color more than round
- • Requires careful selection for quality
Best Setting
Four-prong or bezel settings that protect the corners while showcasing the shape.
Oval Shape
Elongated Elegance
Oval diamonds combine the brilliance of round cuts with an elongated shape that creates the illusion of greater size. The shape is flattering on fingers and offers excellent value.
- • Appears larger than round of same carat
- • Elongates and flatters fingers
- • Excellent brilliance
- • Trending popularity
Selection Tips
- • Ideal length-to-width ratio: 1.35-1.50
- • Avoid bow-tie effect in center
- • Look for excellent symmetry
- • Consider personal preference for elongation
Trending
Increasingly popular among celebrities and trendsetters for its unique elegance and size appearance.
Cushion Cut
Vintage Romance
The cushion cut combines a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, reminiscent of a pillow. This antique-style cut offers excellent fire and a romantic, vintage appeal.
- • Romantic, vintage appeal
- • Excellent fire and scintillation
- • Soft, rounded corners
- • Antique-style cutting
Variations
- • Square cushion: Length-to-width ratio 1.00-1.05
- • Rectangular cushion: Ratio 1.15-1.30
- • Antique cushion: Larger facets, vintage style
- • Modified cushion: Extra facets for brilliance
Character
Perfect for those who love vintage aesthetics with modern brilliance.
Emerald Cut
Art Deco Elegance
The emerald cut features a rectangular shape with cut corners and step-cut faceting. This sophisticated cut emphasizes clarity and creates a hall-of-mirrors effect.
- • Sophisticated, elegant appearance
- • Hall-of-mirrors effect
- • Emphasizes clarity over brilliance
- • Art Deco style appeal
Important Factors
- • Requires higher clarity grades (VS2+)
- • Ideal length-to-width ratio: 1.30-1.40
- • Look for excellent polish and symmetry
- • Color is more visible than in brilliant cuts
Celebrity Favorite
Popular among celebrities for its sophisticated, understated elegance.
Pear Shape
Unique Elegance
The pear shape combines the brilliance of round and marquise cuts, featuring one rounded end and one pointed end. This unique shape is elegant and eye-catching.
- • Unique, eye-catching shape
- • Appears larger than round
- • Elongates fingers when worn point up
- • Combines round and marquise elements
Wearing Considerations
- • Can be worn point up or point down
- • Ideal length-to-width ratio: 1.45-1.75
- • Avoid bow-tie effect
- • Point needs protection in setting
Versatility
Works beautifully in both vintage and modern settings.
Additional Popular Shapes
Marquise
Elongated with pointed ends, appears largest of all shapes. Royal heritage dating to Louis XIV.
- • Maximum size appearance
- • Elongates fingers dramatically
- • Ratio: 1.75-2.25
Asscher
Square version of emerald cut with cropped corners. Art Deco appeal with vintage character.
- • Vintage Art Deco style
- • Deep pavilion creates "windmill" effect
- • Square with cut corners
Heart
Ultimate symbol of love and romance. Requires excellent cutting skill and careful selection.
- • Ultimate romantic symbol
- • Challenging to cut perfectly
- • Best in larger sizes (0.50ct+)
Radiant
Rectangular with cut corners, brilliant faceting. Combines emerald shape with round brilliance.
- • Brilliant cut faceting
- • Rectangular with cut corners
- • Good compromise choice
Trillion
Triangular shape that's modern and distinctive. Often used as side stones in three-stone rings.
- • Triangular, modern shape
- • Excellent as accent stones
- • Requires protected setting
Baguette
Rectangular step cut, primarily used as accent stones. Clean lines and understated elegance.
- • Typically accent stones
- • Clean, linear appearance
- • Step cut faceting
Choosing Your Perfect Shape
Consider Your Lifestyle
- • Active lifestyle: Round, oval, or cushion shapes
- • Professional setting: Classic round or emerald cuts
- • Fashion-forward: Oval, pear, or unique shapes
- • Traditional preference: Round brilliant
Hand and Finger Considerations
- • Long fingers: Any shape works well
- • Short fingers: Elongated shapes (oval, pear, marquise)
- • Wide fingers: Larger stones or elongated shapes
- • Narrow fingers: Avoid overly large or wide shapes
Explore Diamond Shapes
Browse our collection and filter by shape to see how each cut brings out different characteristics in certified diamonds.