It goes without saying that when looking for the engagement ring of your dream worlds, the cut of the center stone is everything. Choosing which one needs to appeal to you is an excellent place to begin because each sparkles uniquely. Consider your priorities when choosing everyday jewelry. Do you prefer a more contemporary appearance or do you prefer to shop at consignment stores for your next amazing vintage find? Should you prefer to have a rock that appears to be enormous than longer-looking fingers? The stone cut affects each of these elements, and fortunately for you, we're here only to explain them all. The round diamond is the most extensively used diamond cut for engagement rings. Round brilliant-cut diamonds are classic sparklers because of their exceptional light performance and versatile shape that complements a plethora of set designs.
The glitter of a princess-cut diamond is comparable to that of a round diamond, but it has a very pointy, contemporary appearance. Or, if you prefer antique settings, choose a cushion-cut diamond, which has a classy glitter and a classic appearance. Step-cut diamonds exhibit more clarity than other cuts and are angular and sleek, like Asscher and emerald diamonds. Diamonds with a radiant cut resemble emeralds but contain more facets for greater brilliance. In contrast to trillion-cut diamonds, which sparkle in a modern triangle shape for something more different, marquise, pear, and oval-cut diamonds stand out and give the appearance that your fingers are longer. Heart-shaped diamonds are also available, which kind of speak for themselves and are exclusively for the most passionate people.
Instead of focusing on the faceting, most consumers will concentrate on the diamond's shape. The faceting of a stone must be examined closely, but a diamond's form will be obvious to everybody. After defining the terms, let's look at some of the more well-liked diamond engagement rings.
- Round diamonds
We start with the round diamond, which is the most traditional diamond form for an engagement ring. This refers more precisely to the brilliant-cut, round diamond. Without a doubt, the most common diamond shape for engagement rings year after year is round. Round diamonds are the main stone in more than half of all engagement rings purchased this year. You can find the best selections for any price range using our guide to round diamond engagement rings.
All across the world, brides choose round-cut diamonds. It's not surprising that this is the dominant stone because its form increases the fire of the diamond at the right light reflection. Round, brilliant-cut diamonds look fantastic in solitaires, three- and two-stone settings, in addition to geometric designs for a more antique appearance. For ladies who love the classics, these diamonds are perfect, but if your taste is more avant-garde, you may wish to consider a form that will be visible on fewer fingers.
- Princess-cut diamonds
The princess-cut diamond with a square shape is the second most popular. Despite the long history of square-shaped diamonds, the princess cut is a relatively new addition to the market for engagement rings. The precise number of facets and their placement, however, is not standardized. As a result, these gems can have a distinct personalities. Princess cuts are popular in part because of their flat sides. This makes it simple to set side stones close to the center diamond. Since diamond cutters can save more of the raw diamond crystal while making a princess, they often cost less than round brilliants of equivalent carat and grade.
On her special day, every bride wants to feel like a princess. Introducing the named princess cut, a different wildly popular design for engagement rings. A princess cut is a great option for almost any ring type because of its adaptable face-up shape, which includes square or rectangular sides. In addition to having a lot of sparkles and a more contemporary, geometrical appearance, they are typically far less expensive than the more widely used round-cut diamonds. Princess-cut diamonds are infamous for chipping at the corners or dropping out, so be careful to use a safe setting.
- Emerald-cut diamonds
Emerald cuts, which have a rectangular form, are another preferred choice for diamond engagement rings. Emerald cuts feature step-cut facets as opposed to rounds and princess-cut squares. Emerald cuts offer a distinct beauty all their own, although having less brilliance than rounds. However, how you buy this stone will depend on how much brilliance the emerald cut has lost. You'll have a much clearer view of a diamond without the intricate scintillation of brilliant cuts. This implies that cutters have fewer options for concealing annoying inclusions. As a result, the stone's clarity grade assumes a far greater significance. For "eye-clean" stones, choose emerald-cut diamonds with vs2 or better clarity ratings whenever possible.
The emerald cut diamond, which has a rectangular step cut, an open table, and cropped corners, is frequently chosen for its art deco look. The diamond's brightness is captured by its long profile and geometric lines, which also strongly reflect light. It has a soft sheen that some people like to describe as having a "hall of mirrors" appearance. Whenever positioned vertically, engagement rings' shapes make fingers appear longer and slimmer for those selfies. On the other hand, since there are fewer facets to mask defects, clarity, and color are of the greatest priority. This cut is not for you if you're looking for a massive firework because it's not that spectacular.
- Baguette diamond
Baguette diamonds are a different art deco-inspired cut from the 1920s and have a long, rectangular shape with 14 facets. Baguette diamond bands are ideal for the future bride who is not interested in a spectacular center stone, as shown above between the two gold bands. Many engagement rings, particularly three-stone engagement rings, are however most frequently utilized as accent diamonds. For a contemporary appearance, pair a sizable center stone with a baguette diamond on each side. Due to their limited number of facets, these stones must be clear, and the cuts must be precise.
- Cushion-cut diamonds
The cushion cut sits between the princess cut, which is square, and the rectangular emerald cut. This form, which can have either square or rectangular outlines, was first developed in the 18th century, long before the invention of mechanical cutting methods.
Cushions differ from squares and rectangles because of their rounded, soft corners and frequently slightly slanted sides. Some enthusiasts equate the contour of a pillow with the forgiving profile of cushion cuts. Cushions glitter a lot, just like other brilliant-cut stones, thus you might see them advertised as "pillow cuts." A well-cut cushion will, by design, show off a diamond's dispersion or "fire" to its fullest potential. Diamonds with a cushion cut have seen waves of popularity throughout history. They were extremely popular in the 19th century but were unpopular for most of the 20th. Thankfully, cushions have made a huge resurgence recently and are now a well-liked and extremely affordable option for contemporary engagement rings. They make the ideal center stones for sophisticated and subtle rings due to their delicate shapes. They can be set by jewelers into solitaire or halo mountings.
This exceptional cut, which accentuates the stone's brilliance, is constantly compared to a pillow because of its square-cut form with curved edges and conventional 58 larger facets. The cushion-cut diamond has been around since the 18th century when most diamonds had this shape. They have recently gained popularity and give off a fully old-world vibe, making them perfect for historical situations. Even if they look amazing in modern fiction, they don't have the most sample consists. They do shine less brilliantly than brilliant-cut diamonds.
- Asscher-cut diamonds
Consider asscher-cut diamonds if you want a clearer, more angular alternative to squares or rectangles. Asscher cuts, which were first patented in the early 20th century, have long, geometric step-cut facets and perfectly angled cut corners. They appear noticeably neater, bolder, and more contemporary as a result of cushion cuts. Since Carrie Bradshaw wore an Asscher cut during her brief engagement to Aidan Shaw on the television show "Sex and the City," the Asscher cut has been a favorite among those who are interested in fashion. The Asscher cut has an octagonal form with 58 significant step facets and is named after the jeweler who obtained the 1902 patent for the design. It still gleams and sparkles with its unusually symmetrical geometric design, and this was popular even during the art deco era. It is less likely to break because it doesn't have any sharp edges, and it looks wonderful in a variety of settings.
Nevertheless, you must purchase a top-notch diamond with lots of clarity because this cut frequently has faults. You must pay particular attention to an archer's clarity grade, much like with other step cuts like emerald cuts. Look for gemstones with a vs2 clarity or better.
- Marquise-cut diamonds
Another current fashion trend that has undergone ups and downs in favor over time is the marquise cut. The marquise cut, which dates back to the middle of the 18th century, is also known as a "navette" or "small boat" due to its design. Its shape is similar to that of a ship, with points fore and aft and a rounded midsection. Marquise cuts complement a range of side stones in solitaire settings or can stand alone.
A marquise cut's extended shape is particularly adaptable. A marquise-cut diamond worn lengthwise will give the finger the appearance of being longer and more elegant. On the other side, wearing a marquise east to west will give you a more contemporary, assertive appearance. Another excellent choice for those seeking a diamond that will stand out is the marquise cut. Marquise diamonds appear disproportionately huge for their true carat weight when compared to diamonds with other cutting.
They are very geometric in shape, hence symmetry is crucial. Look for marquises with equal side curvature and points that are lined along a center line. Avoid stones with a dark characteristic termed a "bowtie," which appears as two dark triangles meeting in the middle of the stone. It features curved sides and pointed ends that offer it a unique profile if you wish to consider it an appealing football form. When mounted vertically, its long, narrow design lengthens the finger in addition to giving the impression of greater size. It also sparkles brilliantly. However, because of its delicate pointed edges, if the ring is not fitted correctly, there is a danger of chipping and shattering. Choose a setting that is protective when choosing an engagement ring with a marquise center stone. In addition, the center of the diamond keeps appearing to have a "bowtie" look. If indeed the ring is improperly cut, it may be extremely noticeable and generally undesirable. Make careful to safeguard the diamond's brittle tips by using strong prongs, a bezel of some kind, or a halo.
- Oval diamonds
Oval-shaped brilliant cuts are back in style thanks to a few celebrity engagement rings. Ovals essentially have the same profile as marquise-cut stones, but their tips are rounded rather than pointed. Ovals and marquises have a lot in common. First of all, both shapes' extended contours look great on any finger. Second, just like marquises, ovals are a fantastic choice for those seeking a stone with a size that commands attention. They appear bigger when viewed face up than round diamonds of the same carat weight. Finally, ovals place a high value on symmetry and proportion. Ovals with poor proportions will also have bowties running down the middle of them. Oval bowties do have fans who find these qualities attractive (unlike marquises, though). The oval diamond overtook princess-cut diamonds in 2020, even though they have historically been the second most popular choice for engagement rings. Oval-shaped diamonds are becoming more popular for a variety of reasons, including the fact that they frequently appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat and that many individuals find the elongated shape to be more attractive on their fingers.
You should think about the length-to-breadth ratio while buying oval diamonds because they have been around for millennia. The ideal ratio is frequently thought to be between 1.30 and 1.50, but this is purely a matter of taste. Similar to round diamonds, oval stones can be set in a variety of ways, making it easy to choose the ideal ring for your preferences, whether you want something straightforward or elaborate. Ovals are adaptable when it comes to mounting options in engagement rings. As always, there are many lovely solitaire alternatives to choose from. However, those seeking a more striking ring may wish to consider some original possibilities, such as combining an oval center stone with several side stones. You can mix modern and vintage components for a varied aesthetic. For instance, a beautiful oval diamond ring with thick bands adorned with eye-catching colorful stones.
With the same amount of angles as a round-cut stone, the oval-shaped diamond, which is simply a lengthened version of a round diamond, may sparkle just as brilliantly. It's a fashionable and unique choice, and the finger can get longer because of its oblong shape. Incorrect cutting, however, can cause flaws and inclusions as well as a "bowtie" impression akin to a marquise-cut stone. A salt-and-pepper oval cut diamond might assist you in overcoming this by incorporating any unfavorable flaws into your design.
- Radian cut
Henry Grossbard created the radiant-cut diamond in 1977, and it lives up to its name by catching light a lot of. The emerald-cut stone-like shape is complemented with unusual, deep-cut facets that add to the brilliance. Brides who do not want to stray too far from the conventional shapes will be drawn to this stone's eternal attractiveness and handmade spirit. It features eight corners instead of the princess-cut diamond's four, which lessens the chance that it would chip. If you prefer a big-looking diamond, the radiant cut may not be right for you so because big cuts make the stone appear smaller. You might not be able to locate a large range of stones in this cut to choose from because it's also extremely unusual.
While emerald-cut diamonds and radiant diamonds both have a rectangular form, the latter two have a very distinct appearance due to the radiant's special cut, which has 70 facets for a very sparkling appearance. These diamonds are alluring and make for a classy, classic engagement ring, but because of their intricate design, you'll probably want to pick a higher-quality cut because flaws will be more obvious.
- Pear diamonds
No list of the most preferred diamond ring forms in 2022 would be complete without mentioning pear shapes. These stones with a retro vibe, which Carrie Bradshaw on Sex and the City mocked as being out of fashion in the 1990s, are now making a comeback. Pears were first cut in the 15th century and are a cross between a marquise and an oval. They are also referred to as "teardrops." They have a rounded curve on one end and a point on the other. A pear may make a marquise or oval-shaped finger appear more attractive. When worn, the asymmetry of a point and a curve could, however, appear strange. Choose a stone whose outline resembles the shape of your finger if you want your pear to stretch your fingers. People with thin fingers should seek out pears that are slimmer, while people with broad fingers should seek out pears that are rounder. For pears, you can mount them in a variety of ways.
Pears are typically worn with the point towards the finger's tip rather than the body. But you know what they say about following the rules... They're designed to be destroyed! An appealing and novel option is to arrange the pears in an east-west orientation. Select a ring with unconventional halos encircling a pear for an even more outlandish appearance. A central pear can easily be surrounded by lesser stones, also with unconventional forms, for those interested in either a three-stone or five-stone mounting. Bold people can choose a pear arranged at a risky angle.
Pear diamonds are somewhat divisive because of their asymmetrical shape—many people either adore them or detest them! These diamonds have a teardrop shape, and when set in engagement rings, the point of the stone is usually worn away from the hand. Undoubtedly a popular choice today, pear-shaped diamonds are frequently fashioned as solitaires or surrounded by lesser stones.
- Heart cut
Heart cut stones, a timeless representation of love, aren't typically used in engagement rings or just for weddings on Valentine's Day, but perhaps that's what makes them so special. The feminine shape of this contemporary cut, ideal for the serial dater, looks stunning as a diamond on a simple ring or in an extravagant setting. Since it's a relatively challenging cut, you can end up spending more for the labor required to achieve the beauty and brightness that create a heart-shaped stone gleam. This ring is also thought by some to be a touch too trendy, so if you're searching for something undeniably ageless, it could not be for you.