DIAMOND SHAPES

When you're on the hunt for the right diamond for your engagement rings, you'll want to ask questions about the 4 C's of the stone, but the first question is going to be about shape. A round-cut diamond may be VVS1, but if you prefer emerald cuts, it's not going to mean much to you! Here at Merry Richards Jewelers, we have many customers who come in asking about the distinctions about the most popular diamond shapes, which we’re always ready to help explain!

Round Cut

The round cut diamond is the most brilliant and scintillating choice on the market, and is most often chosen for engagement rings. Its 57 facets allow it to capture light in an unparalleled way, giving the shape its characteristic explosion of fire and light. The round cut's compactness also does good work in concealing some inclusions and yellowing—but the popularity of the shape also means that it's the most expensive shape.

Princess Cut

Princess-cuts were invented in the 70s, making them one of the most modern shapes. The sharp lines of the shape give them a boldness and modernity that marries well with the shape's compact femininity. They're exceptionally brilliant and conceal some inclusions, and they're affordable despite their popularity. It's important to pick a bezel setting, channel setting, or chevron prongs to protect the delicate corners of this shape.

Oval Cut

Oval-cuts are another modern shape, and they blend much of the round cut's fire and scintillation with length. The length of an oval-cut diamond makes it appear larger than an equally heavy round cut and narrows a woman’s finger. However, it's important to pick a very well-cut oval cut, since a poor cut here will produce an extremely visible black space inside the stone called the "bowtie effect".

Cushion Cut

The cushion cut is distinguished by its unique blend of square shape and rounded edges, which gives it a unique femininity. Two features distinguish a cushion cut from others. First, its ability to capture light is unparalleled, allowing it to glow in even dim environments. Second, it’s the most modifiable shape available, and the old mine cut, modified cushion, and brilliant cushion all create unique variants on the shape.

Emerald Cut

Along with the Asscher cut, the emerald-cut diamond is one of two popular shapes known as a "step cut". The emerald cut is a long, clipped-corner diamond distinguished by the step facets along the reverse of the stone. This style minimizes the scintillation of the diamond, but it creates a black-and-white "hall of mirrors" in the stone. The lack of sparkle means that it’s important to pick an emerald cut with exceptional clarity.

Pear Cut

Pear-cut diamonds have become exceptionally popular in recent years. They have a striking appearance thanks to their blend of a sharp point and rounded bottom. That asymmetry is unusual among diamond shapes. The length of a pear cut, like emerald- and oval-cut diamonds, narrows a woman's finger. As with princess cuts, it's crucial to find a setting that will protect the vulnerable point of the stone.

If you'd like to find out more about the diamond shapes we offer here at Merry Richards Jewelers, don't hesitate to contact us at 1-630-516-8000 to reach our Oakbrook Terrace, Illinois showroom!