5 Popular Diamond Shapes Explained

There are a plethora of diamond cuts out there, many of which we have in store at cuttings. To learn more about the characterisations of some of these cuts and how they can differ, we have explored five popular shapes below.

Pear Cut

Pear shaped diamonds can be spotted by their tapered point on one side. That narrow end should always face the wearer when worn. When a ring features this cut of diamond, it makes the wearer’s finger look longer and slimmer. An ideal pear shaped diamond has good symmetry; this means that the point should be in line with the apex of the round end. The shoulders and wings (the upper and lower curves) should be uniform on both sides, with no straight edges. Finally, the top should appear rounded like a semi-circle.

Cushion Cut

The cushion cut, in its simplest definition, is a square cut diamond with rounded corners. It received its name from its likeness to a pillow. This cut of diamond dates back almost 200 years and until the 20th century, it was the most popular cut available. Cushion cut diamonds return light in a chunkier pattern than most modern cuts. The enlarged culet, which is characteristic of this diamond, is prized today among antique diamond dealers. Cushion cut diamonds have resurged in popularity due to alterations made in its design, such as shrinking the culet, enlarging the table and improving cut angles for increased brilliance. Buyers are attracted to its combination between the antique and modern.

Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut diamond was first produced in 1902, named after the Asscher Brothers who were famous at the time for cutting the world’s largest rough stone. This cut of diamond originally peaked in popularity around 1920 but around the turn of this century it began to make a comeback. This return in popularity meant modifications were made to the design so it has more brilliance than the traditional cut

Radiant Cut

The radiant cut is a popular example of a square cut diamond. It first became popular in the 1980s for its cropped corner square shape, making it a nice bridge between the cushion and princess cut. In fact, we have an exquisite radiant cut diamond in stock, set in 18ct gold and held in a platinum mount that could take your fancy.

Princess Cut

The princess cut is another square cut diamond, created in the 1960s. It’s most popularly used in engagement rings. Princess cut diamonds need to be set with prongs that protect the four corners as they are susceptible to chipping. The princess cut, of all the square cut diamonds, succeeds the most in achieving the fire and brilliance of a round diamond. It also proves to be ideal with regards to its shape, sparkle, and price

We have all the aforementioned cuts available here at Cuttings but that’s not all; take a look at our current stock to see our full range of diamond jewellery, or visit one of our branches.