When choosing the perfect engagement ring for your partner, there are a number of elements to consider. One of the most important decisions will be the shape of the diamond. You may have only considered the classic round brilliant cut, but did you know that there are a variety of diamond shapes that you can choose from?

A diamond’s shape refers to its physical form and each shape is very different, possessing unique characteristics, which impact not only the aesthetic of the whole ring, but can also influence the value. We have reviewed our favourite shapes below, to help you understand the different specifications and how each shape offers a unique way to showcase your partner’s style and personality.

Round Brilliant

A round diamond is a popular choice due to its classic and elegant style, but it also has the ability to be designed into something unique when paired with more intricate details such as a halo or diamond basket. Round diamonds offer the most flexibility when balancing the four C’s – cut, colour, clarity and carat – without compromising the diamonds’ brilliance and shine. With its magnificent sparkle and light-reflecting properties due to its 58 facets, the Round Brilliant diamond is the best option if you’re looking for something especially traditional. 

Cushion

One of the oldest types of fancy cut diamonds, a cushion cut is square or rectangle in shape with soft, rounded corners and larger facets to increase it’s brilliance. These larger facets highlight the diamond’s clarity, radiance and ability to reflect a kaleidoscope of colours, making the cushion cut diamond a brilliant choice if you are considering a coloured diamond. Due to their old world elegance and charm, they are a great choice if your partner admires art-deco design or a vintage style.

 Pear

Reminiscent of a teardrop, the pear shape diamond is combination of a marquise and oval cut, whilst also being similar to a round brilliant cut due to its 58 facets. Pear shaped diamonds are renowned for their elegance and are increasing in popularity because of their exceptional and unique shape. Due to the intricacies of this shape, it also often means that a smaller carat will appear larger than it actually is. This is often a consideration for those who are feeling the pressure to purchase an engagement ring with a larger stone.

Emerald

Accounting for only 3% of diamonds in the world, Emerald Cut Diamonds are one of the most unique shapes available. Generally rectangular, emerald cuts have fewer facets resulting in less ‘sparkle’ compared to the round brilliant cut, and a more subtle, hall-of-mirrors type of effect with reflections of light and dark planes. An Emerald Cut diamond is a fantastic option for a bride who prefers more distinct, contemporary and clean lines in their style.

Oval

Oval shaped diamonds are a modified brilliant cut with similar fire and brilliance to round cut diamonds. The elongated shape of the oval is not only flattering on most hands but this shape also creates the illusion of a larger diamond when used as the centre stone of an engagement ring. This means that an oval diamond of the same carat weight as a round brilliant is likely to appear larger. 

Princess

Princess cut diamonds are a favourite for engagement rings, due to their ability to be incorporated into most designs. Most commonly seen as a square, its four uncut corners are enhanced due to its unique way of emitting colour from the corners instead of the middle like other shapes. Princess diamonds can be dramatically enhanced with unique halos to create added brilliance. 

Marquise

The marquise diamond is similar in shape to the oval, but with distinctly pointed ends. The marquise cut creates a long and narrow shape as well as a large crown surface that helps to give an impression of a bigger diamond. This makes it an ideal choice for those who area after value for money whilst choosing something special and unique. Your jeweller will also help in choosing a marquise cut diamond with the best spread of light, as both oval and marquise diamonds have a ‘bow tie’ effect in the middle where light reflects less.

Asscher

Often mistaken for the square emerald cut diamond; the Asscher Cut has cropped corners and is square in shape. These wider corners and step-cut faceting of the stone capture the light from all angles to produce a pattern of repeated squares distinctive of this unique cut. The Asscher Cut is typically appealing for a bride who is inspired by celebrity trends and who appreciates antique design.

Radiant

A radiant cut diamond can make a stunning, classic choice as they offer considerable ‘wow’ factor, even in smaller carat weights. Radiant cut features trimmed corners, which combine the lines of an emerald cut with the brilliance of a round diamond. This shape is also magnificent when paired with other diamond cuts such as shoulders or a diamond band.

If you wish to seek advice on choosing the perfect diamond shape for your partner’s engagement ring, book an appointment with the team at Matthew Ely today.