10 Popular Diamond Cuts and Shapes for Rings [2024]

When it comes to diamonds, the cut is just as important as the other “Cs” (carat weight, color, and clarity).

The cut of a diamond dictates how well the stone interacts with light, and ultimately how sparkly and brilliant it appears.

There are many different cuts of diamonds, from the classic round cut to more modern shapes like marquise and pear. Each cut has its own unique set of proportions that result in a different level of sparkle.

When choosing a diamond, it’s important to consider which type of cut will best suit your personal style. Do you prefer a classic look? Or are you drawn to something more modern?

With so many options to choose from, there’s sure to be a diamond cut that’s perfect for you. Here’s a look at some of the most common types of diamond cuts:

What are the Most Common Types of Diamond Cuts

1. Round Brilliant Cut

Round Brilliant cut diamonds are the most popular type of diamond used in engagement rings and other fine jewelry. They are also the most expensive, due to their superior fire and brilliance.

Round Brilliant cut diamonds are cut to have 56 facets, which reflect light beautifully. They are also cut to have a very round shape, which makes them appear larger than other types of diamonds.

If you are looking for a diamond that is sure to dazzle, a Round Brilliant cut diamond is the way to go.

2. Princess Cut

The princess cut diamond is a relatively new addition to the world of engagement rings, but it has quickly become one of the most popular choices.

Its elegant yet simple shape is perfect for those who want a classic look with a modern twist. And because the princess cut uses less of the diamond than other cuts, it can often be more affordable.

But what really sets the princess cut apart is its sparkle. Thanks to its unique facets, the princess cut diamond captures light in a way that other diamonds simply can’t match.

So if you’re looking for an engagement ring that will truly dazzle, the princess cut is a great choice.

3. Emerald Cut

The emerald cut diamond is a type of diamond with a rectangular or square shape and tapered corners. It is one of the most popular cuts for engagement rings and is known for its elegant appearance.

The emerald cut was named after the Emerald gemstone, which has a similar rectangular shape.

Unlike other diamond cuts, the emerald cut does not have facets (the small, polished surfaces on a diamond). Instead, it has “steps” or rows of parallel lines that run along the diamond’s surface. This gives the emerald cut its unique appearance and makes it more sparkle than other diamond cuts.

Emerald cut diamonds are typically less expensive than other diamond cuts because they have a smaller total carat weight. However, they are still very beautiful and make an excellent choice for an engagement ring.

4. Cushion Cut

A cushion cut diamond is a type of diamond that is cut into a rectangular or square shape with rounded corners, giving it a soft, pillow-like appearance. It is one of the oldest and most popular diamond cuts, and it can be found in a wide variety of jewelry styles.

Cushion cut diamonds are often used in solitaire engagement rings, but they can also be featured in other types of jewelry, such as hoops, pendants, and drop earrings.

When shopping for a cushion cut diamond, it is important to pay attention to the stone’s color, clarity, and carat weight. These factors will all affect the diamond’s overall value.

5. Radiant Cut

Radiant cut diamonds are a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. They get their name from their radiant shape, which is a cross between an emerald cut and a round cut.

Radiant cut diamonds have 58 facets, which helps to give them exceptional sparkle. They are also a good choice for those who want a diamond with maximum fire and brilliance.

6. Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut diamond is a beautiful and unique gemstone. It gets its name from the Asscher brothers, who originally designed and cut the stone in 1902.

The Asscher cut has a distinct square shape with octagonal facets, which creates a dazzling optical illusion. When viewed from above, the diamond appears to be much larger than it actually is.

The Asscher cut is also known for its exceptional clarity. Thanks to its high level of symmetry, an Asscher cut diamond will sparkle brightly, even in low light conditions.

7. Trilliant Cut

Often referred to as a “triangle cut,” the Trilliant Cut features 58 facets (57 if the culet is not included) and can range in size from 0.50 to 3.0 carats. The majority of Trilliant Cut diamonds fall into the 0.75-1.5 carat range.

While the Trilliant Cut can be used for any type of diamond, it is especially well-suited for fancy colored diamonds. The large number of facets helps to accentuate the color of the stone and create a dazzling effect.

If you are looking for a diamond with maximum sparkle, the Trilliant cut is an excellent choice.

8. Pear Cut

The pear cut diamond is a unique and beautiful choice for an engagement ring or other piece of jewelry. This type of diamond is characterized by its rounded end, which resembles a pear-shaped fruit.

The pear cut diamond can be cut in a variety of ways, including with a rounded end or with a pointed end. The pear cut diamond is typically set in a prong setting, which helps to showcase its unique shape.

When shopping for a pear cut diamond, it is important to pay close attention to the quality of the cut. A well-cut pear shape will reflect light beautifully and appear brilliant when viewed from any angle.

9. Oval Cut

An oval cut diamond is simply a diamond that has been cut into an oval shape. This type of cut is often used for engagement rings and other special pieces of jewelry.

Oval cut diamonds can be especially beautiful because of their unique shape. When properly cut, they can display a brilliant sparkle. And because they tend to be thinner than round diamonds, they can often appear larger than they actually are.

If you’re looking for a distinctive and eye-catching diamond, an oval cut may be the perfect choice for you.

10. Marquise Cut

The marquise cut is actually an oval cut, but with pointed ends. This gives the diamond a distinctive shape that is both elegant and eye-catching.

The marquise cut is a very versatile style, as it can be set in a variety of ways. The most popular setting for a marquise cut diamond is in a solitaire ring, where the diamond is the only stone.

The marquise cut diamond is also one of the most brilliant cuts, meaning it is able to reflect light more effectively than other shapes. This can help to make the diamond appear brighter and more sparkly.

When choosing a marquise cut diamond, be sure to look for one with few or no inclusions, as these can affect the stone’s ability to reflect light. Also beware of stones that are too shallow or too deep, as this can also affect the diamond’s brilliance.

With these factors in mind, you can be sure to find a marquise cut diamond that is breathtaking and unique.

11. Baguette Cut

The Baguette Cut diamond is a rectangular shaped diamond with tapered, pointed ends. It is named after the French bread of the same shape, and is sometimes also called the Step Cut or the Taper Cut.

Baguette Cut diamonds are usually used as accent stones, and are often seen in eternity bands or as side stones in engagement rings. When cut properly, they can display a stunning array of sparkle and fire.

However, because of their long, slender shape, Baguette Cut diamonds can be fragile and prone to chipping, so they require careful handling.

If you’re looking for an elegant and unique diamond shape, the Baguette Cut is definitely worth considering.

12. Table Cut

A table cut diamond is a type of diamond that has been cut into a rectangular or square shape. The table is the flat, wide surface at the top of the diamond, and it is usually cut to be about 1/3 the size of the width of the diamond.

The table cut diamond was popular during the Art Deco period, when geometric shapes were in style. Today, table cut diamonds are not as popular as they once were, but they can still be found in some engagement rings and other jewelry.

13. Heart Shaped

Heart shaped diamond cuts are unique because they are the only diamond cut that is specifically designed to symbolize love. It is perhaps the most romantic of all diamond shapes.

The heart shape is a universal symbol of love, making heart shaped diamonds the perfect way to express your feelings for someone special.

Heart shaped diamonds also tend to be larger than other diamond cuts, which makes them even more special and unique. If you are looking for a truly one-of-a-kind diamond, a heart shaped cut is the perfect choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the most popular diamond cuts for engagement rings?

The most popular diamond cuts for engagement rings include the cushion cut diamond, round brilliant diamond, emerald cut diamond, and pear-shaped diamonds. The cushion cut offers a timeless and romantic appeal with its soft edges and vintage look. The round brilliant cut is a classic choice known for its exceptional brilliance and sparkle. The emerald cut exudes elegance and sophistication with its clean lines and step-cut facets. Pear-shaped diamonds are sought after for their unique teardrop shape, which elongates the finger.

Additionally, princess cut diamonds are favored for their modern and angular shape, combining brilliance and versatility. These popular diamond cuts offer a variety of options to find the perfect engagement ring.

What are the different diamond shapes available?

There are several different diamond shapes available to choose from. The princess cut diamond is a popular square-shaped diamond with sharp corners, known for its brilliance and versatility. The radiant cut diamond combines the elegance of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round diamond, featuring trimmed corners and a rectangular shape. The round diamond is the most classic and traditional choice, prized for its exceptional sparkle and light performance.

Other diamond shapes include the pear-shaped diamond, marquise-shaped diamond, oval-shaped diamond, and heart-shaped diamond, each offering unique characteristics and visual appeal. Selecting the perfect diamond shape depends on personal preference and the desired style for the piece of jewelry.

What diamond cut is best for sparkle?

The diamond cut that is best known for its sparkle is the round brilliant cut. This popular diamond cut is designed to maximize the stone’s brilliance and fire by utilizing precise proportions and specific facets. Its symmetrical shape and ideal proportions allow light to enter and reflect off the diamond’s facets, creating an exceptional sparkle.

While other diamond cuts such as the oval cut diamond or radiant diamond cut also offer brilliance, the round brilliant cut consistently delivers the most sparkle due to its optimal arrangement of facets. This makes it the preferred choice for those seeking a diamond with maximum sparkle and radiance.

How do diamond cuts affect the value of a diamond?

The diamond’s cut refers to the way the diamond has been shaped and faceted to maximize its brilliance, fire, and sparkle. The quality of a diamond’s cut greatly affects its value, as it can enhance or diminish the beauty of a rough stone. A well-cut diamond, like an oval or marquise cut diamond, with larger facets and cropped corners, reflects more light, making it more valuable.

On the other hand, poorly cut diamonds, like step cut diamonds or asscher cut diamonds, with fewer or smaller facets, appear dull and lackluster, decreasing their value. In summary, a diamond’s cut plays a significant role in determining its worth, making it important to choose a high-quality cut when selecting a diamond.

What diamond cut is best for a modern-style engagement ring?

For a modern-style engagement ring, several diamond cuts are popular choices. The round brilliant diamond is a classic yet versatile option that complements various ring designs. Its timeless appeal and exceptional brilliance make it a safe bet for a modern look. The emerald cut diamond offers a sleek and sophisticated aesthetic with its clean lines and step-cut facets, making it ideal for a contemporary style. The radiant cut diamond combines the elegance of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round diamond, offering a modern twist. The oval cut diamond and asscher cut diamond also make fashionable choices for a modern engagement ring with their unique shapes and eye-catching presence.

What diamond shape is best for a slender finger?

For a slender finger, the marquise cut diamonds are often considered the best choice. This diamond cut elongates the finger’s appearance due to its unique shape and pointed edges. The marquise cut sparkles beautifully and is versatile, making it a popular option for diamond jewelry. Its perfect shape complements the elegant lines of a slender finger, creating a balanced and visually appealing look. Additionally, the curved edges of the marquise cut add a soft touch to the overall design. Overall, the marquise cut diamond is an excellent choice to enhance the beauty of a slender finger.

Bottom Line

When it comes to choosing a diamond for an engagement ring, there are a variety of factors to consider. One important factor is the type of cut.

The most popular cuts are round, princess, and cushion. Each type of cut has its own unique benefits.

Round diamonds are the most popular choice for engagement rings because they are classic and elegant.

Princess diamonds are a great choice if you want something a little more unique. They have sharp corners and a square shape.

Cushion diamonds are a good choice if you want something that is both unique and classic. They have rounded corners and a cushion-shaped body.

Ultimately, the best type of diamond cut for an engagement ring is the one that best suits your personal style.