What is a diamond shape?
A diamond shape is otherwise known as the geometric shape of a diamond or silhouette. Often, a diamond shape is known as a cut, and the different diamond cuts can be referred to as either round or fancy shape diamonds. Fancy shape diamonds are any shape that isn’t a round brilliant diamond.
Types of diamond shapes
There are many types of diamond cuts and shapes to choose from, and the one you select should be based on your taste and preferences. If you are buying a gift for your loved one, such as an engagement ring, it is a good idea to find the perfect diamond shape for your partner. Here are the types of diamond shapes you can choose from when buying diamond jewellery.
Round Diamond Cut
The round brilliant diamond is the most popular shape for engagement rings due to its timeless appearance and beauty. It tends to generate the highest amount of sparkle due to its large number of facets.
Princess Cut Diamond
The princess cut diamond is a square-shaped diamond, thought to have grown in popularity due to its modern appearance.
Cushion Cut Diamond
The cushion cut diamond features rounded corners and large facets to increase brilliance. This diamond shape is loved for its timeless appeal and has been a favourite for over a century.
Emerald Cut Diamond
With its pavilion cut in rectangular facets to create an elegant finish, the emerald diamond shape is truly unique.
Pear Cut Diamond
The pear diamond shape is a popular and elegant cut, also known as the ‘teardrop’ for its rounded shape and pointed tip.
Oval Cut Diamond
Perfectly proportioned and unique, the oval shape diamond also has a similar brilliance to that of the round diamond.
Asscher Cut Diamond
A square version of the emerald, the Asscher diamond shape is truly unique and features a pavilion cut into rectangular facets.
Radiant Cut Diamond
The radiant diamond shape has a similar brilliance to the round shape diamond but with a modern and unique shape.
Marquise Cut Diamond
Originally the marquise diamond shape was commissioned by Louis XIV of France. Its elongated shape is perfect for those looking to maximise carat weight.
Heart Cut Diamond
The ultimate symbol of love and adoration, the heart diamond shape is perfect for the romantics amongst us.
Which diamond shapes, cut and sizes
are best for brilliance?
Here are our top tips on how to find the most brilliant diamond based on its shape, cut and size.
Choose a better cut quality
A diamond's cut quality directly impacts how much it sparkles. An excellent-cut diamond is cut with perfect proportions, symmetry and polish to allow as much light to refract as possible. A poor-cut diamond appears dull and lacklustre. That is why if you want a brilliant diamond, you should choose a better cut quality.
Consider diamond
size and weight
If you are looking for a large diamond on a budget, you shouldn't compromise on cut quality because a poor-cut diamond can appear smaller than an excellent cut diamond of the same weight and will not have as much brilliance and fire.
Best diamond shape
for brilliance
Round shaped diamonds naturally have more brilliance and fire. It is possible to choose a cut grade of Good (or better) for a beautiful looking diamond. If a fancy diamond shape is more your thing, it is a good idea to select a cut grade of Very Good (or better) for the perfect symmetry, proportions and polish.
