Learn About Diamond Shapes and Cuts
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There can be some confusion between a diamond’s shape and its cut. It is common,
when shopping for diamond rings, to consider a stone’s rating for color, cut, clarity
and karat, so many people mistakenly assume the rating for ‘cut’ refers the shape
of the stone. To further confuse the matter, the common name of some shapes, such
as the princess cut showcased in popular princess diamond rings, can make it seem
as though they are one and the same.
In actuality, a diamond’s cut refers to the techniques used by a master jeweler
to maximize particular qualities of a stone. A gem’s shape, on the other hand, refers
to its form once finished. While cut ultimately determines shape, the best cut for
a diamond depends upon the its innate qualities, while the best shape is a matter
of personal preference.
So what does all this mean when selecting diamond rings? While considering rating
is an important part of evaluating the quality of any style of fine diamond rings
from diamond engagement rings to mens diamond rings, some thought should be given
to shape for more aesthetic reasons. Some shapes are most flattering to specific
hand and finger sizes, as well as ring bands. Some shapes are preferred simply because
of their appearance. When it comes to choosing the shape of gems used in diamond
rings, it is all about taste.
Some shapes commonly featured in fine diamond rings are :
- round – Extremely popular for diamond engagement rings, this shape balances a stone’s
grades to maximize its beauty.
- princess – Princess diamond rings, possibly the most sought after to mark an engagement,
feature a squared shape that showcases the stone’s brilliance. There can be some
variation between the stone’s dimensions, so some princess diamonds may appear more
squared while others are rectangular.
- emerald – This rectangular shape features rectangular facets cut into the stone
that highlight its clarity.
- asscher – This squared version of the emerald shape also features unique rectangular
facets
- marquise – This brilliant cut – meaning it carries 58 facets - is ovular with pronounced
tapering at either end, and is ideal for maximizing karat weight
- oval – This is a tapered round shape that highlights a diamond’s brilliance, and
is particularly flattering to long slender fingers
- pear – A teardrop shape with a rounded or pointed end that can be slimming to the
hand
- radiant – This is a squared or rectangular shape with blunt corners.
- cushion – This is another square to rectangular shape, but it features rounded corners
and larger facets
- heart – This timeless symbol of love is very popular for diamond engagement rings