Shape versus cut
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