DIAMOND SHAPE

A diamond's shape is its most distinguishing and identifiable feature, cut in a variety of styles to maximize brilliance and add character. Different shapes can represent unique personalities and special moments. The round brilliant cut is the most popular, followed closely by the Princess cut. At With Clarity, we offer the nine most popular diamond shapes, all certified by the GIA. Learn more about each shape below.

About Diamond Shapes

Diamonds are cut into various shapes, but how does a cutter decide which shape to create? The primary goal of a diamond cutter is to preserve and maximize carat weight. Since rough diamonds come in unpredictable shapes and sizes, the cutter chooses a shape that maximizes both carat weight and value.

Interestingly, round cut diamonds result in the most wastage of rough diamond carat. Other fancy shapes, which are deeper and have longer, less uniform shaping, capture more of the rough diamond.

While diamonds can be cut into any shape, there are ten popular ones: Round, Princess, Cushion, Oval, Emerald, Pear, Marquise, Asscher, Radiant, and Heart. Though new diamond shapes are continually being developed, a few classic cuts have endured for their beauty and ability to showcase a diamond’s sparkle.

Diamond shapes have always been popular as jewelers seek ways to maximize the shine of a single ring. Initially, shinier rings allowed jewelers to charge more, but this pursuit of brilliance has evolved into a beloved aspect of diamond engagement rings. Diamond shapes are crucial today, with many considering the shape one of the most important factors in any ring.

This popularity is influenced by price differences, the diamond’s lifespan, and the ring’s appearance. It’s important for buyers to research which diamond shape best suits their lifestyle since different shapes can be more prone to damage. Each shape also has its own essence, ranging from modern to classic, affecting the overall feel of the ring. Choose a shape that resonates with your personality and preferences, ensuring it complements other jewelry and clothing.

Shapes

Round: STYLE: classic, elegant, sparkling

The round brilliant cut maximizes brilliance with 58 facets. Though it involves more wastage of rough stone, its brilliance makes it the most popular shape, comprising over 75% of all diamonds.

Princess: STYLE: trendy, beautiful, angelic

The Princess cut is the second most popular shape. Available in square or rectangular forms, it maximizes brilliance and is ideal for long fingers and wedding bands.

Cushion: STYLE: romantic, graceful, sophisticated

The Cushion cut blends the energy of a round brilliant with the symmetry of a radiant cut. Known as the "pillow cut," it has larger facets that enhance brilliance.

Emerald: STYLE: modern, bold, glamorous

The Emerald cut, or "step cut," emphasizes clarity with minimal faceting, creating a unique sparkle. It's best set in closed or bezel settings to show color.

Radiant: STYLE: fiery, diva, provocative

The Radiant cut combines the brilliance of a round with the purity of an emerald cut. Its versatility makes it suitable for various jewelry styles.

Asscher: STYLE: balanced, vintage, creative

The Asscher cut is a blend of Princess and Emerald cuts with a step-cut faceting. It highlights clarity and is ideal for showcasing higher clarity diamonds.

Marquise: STYLE: dramatic, moving, joyful

The Marquise cut resembles a smile and complements long, slender fingers. Its elongated shape can make it appear larger than its actual carat weight.

Pear: STYLE: contemporary, unique, gentle

The Pear shape diamond offers artistic variations. Its teardrop appearance enhances sparkle, and its faceting often masks inclusions.

Oval: STYLE: trendy, elegant, delicate

The Oval cut is an elongated round brilliant, known for its brilliance and ability to make fingers look longer and thinner.

Lab Grown Diamond Shapes

Lab-grown diamonds are available in the same shapes as natural diamonds, possessing the same optical, chemical, and physical characteristics. The only difference lies in their origin, as lab-grown diamonds are created in a controlled environment. Certified by IGI, lab-grown diamonds are graded just like natural ones.

When choosing a lab-grown diamond shape, consider factors like fire and brilliance, as well as the value obtained from the rough stone. Popular shapes include the round brilliant, oval, marquise, pear, and cushion cuts, which offer excellent value and minimal wastage. The Asscher and emerald cuts also provide great value.

Lab-grown diamond roughs allow for fancy shapes to be cut easily, making them a versatile and budget-friendly choice. Choose a lab-grown diamond shape that suits your taste and budget, and enjoy the beauty and brilliance of a diamond that aligns with your values.