At A Glance

Choosing the right diamond shape is an important decision when selecting a piece of jewellery, whether it’s an engagement ring, a pendant, or a pair of earrings. The shape of a diamond not only defines its overall appearance but also influences how it reflects light and how it complements your personality and hand shape. In this guide, we’ll explore the most popular diamond shapes, including round, cushion, oval, princess cut, pear, and more. We will also discuss their unique style characteristics and tips for choosing the one that’s right for you:

The Difference Between Diamond Shapes & Diamond Cuts

The distinction between diamond shape and diamond cut is often misunderstood; yet, each plays a crucial role in a diamond’s appearance. Shape defines the diamond’s outer silhouette, such as a classic round, modern princess, or elegant pear, setting the overall look and “first impressions” a stone gives off. For example, a cushion shape offers vintage charm, while an oval elongates the finger with soft sophistication. Cut, however, is about the craftspersonship that has gone into shaping the diamond for maximum light return: How precisely the facets are angled and polished to capture light, creating that coveted sparkle, fire, and brilliance. Cut grades range from excellent to poor and have an enormous effect on a diamond’s appearance. For this reason, we always recommend selecting a diamond with the highest possible cut grade and never sacrificing a diamond’s cut quality for size.

Diamond Shape Comparison Chart

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Why The Round Brilliant Diamond Is The Most Popular Cut

Brilliant round diamonds are the most timeless and classic cut. Designed with 58 facets, acting like little mirrors, this shape maximizes light reflection, delivering exceptional brilliance, fire, and scintillation that captivate the eye. The round shape, being the brightest, pairs well with a variety of jewellery, from engagement rings to earrings to pendants. The round brilliant’s classic appeal also stems from its ability to match all tastes and hand shapes, offering a universally flattering look. While it may be slightly more expensive due to the rough diamond’s yield loss during cutting, its unmatched radiance and classic charm make it a top choice for those seeking a diamond that shines with enduring beauty.

Our Next Four Most Popular Diamond Shapes

Princess-Shaped Diamond (Princess Cut)

The princess-shaped diamond is a square-shaped diamond with sharp, uncut corners, offering a modern and edgy vibe. It’s the second most popular shape for engagement rings, combining contemporary style with impressive brilliance.

Best For: Those who want a modern, geometric look with plenty of sparkle. It’s ideal for those who love a bold, angular aesthetic.
Why Choose It: The princess cut’s clean lines make it an excellent match for sleek, modern ring designs. It also tends to show fewer inclusions due to its faceting pattern.
Tip: Opt for a setting that protects the corners, as they can be prone to chipping if not adequately secured.

Oval-Shaped Diamond (Oval Cut)

An oval-shaped diamond combines the brilliance of a round cut with an elongated, flattering shape. This shape can make the diamond appear larger than its carat weight and has a soft, romantic appeal.

Best For: Those seeking a unique yet elegant shape that elongates the finger. It’s an excellent choice for vintage-inspired or minimalist designs.
Why Choose It: Oval diamonds offer a balance of sparkle and individuality, with a shape that’s less common than round but is still versatile.
Tip: Pay attention to the length-to-width ratio. A ratio of 1.3 to 1.5 is ideal for a balanced oval shape, but personal preferences vary.

Cushion-Shaped Diamond (Cushion Cut)

A cushion-shaped diamond is recognized for its soft, square appearance, reminiscent of a pillow or cushion. Next to round diamonds, it is probably the brightest of the diamond cuts.

Best For: Those who love a vintage or romantic aesthetic. It’s a versatile choice for engagement rings or as a statement piece.
Why Choose It: Cushion cuts have a warm, inviting glow and work beautifully in halo or pavé settings.
Tip: Look for a well-proportioned cushion cut to avoid a “mushy” appearance, and consider a slightly higher colour grade to enhance its warmth and depth.

Elongated Cushion Cut

Elongated cushion-cut diamonds are similar to the classic cushion in their soft square corners; however, the overall shape is elongated rather than square. This cut has become one of the most popular in recent years.

Best For: Those drawn to a vintage or romantic aesthetic with a modern twist, ideal for unique engagement rings or statement jewellery pieces.
Why Choose It: The elongated cushion cut’s stretched proportions give it a larger appearance compared to its carat weight, combining timeless sophistication with a distinctive, eye-catching look.
Tip: Look for a diamond with pleasing proportions (ratio) as well as the highest cut grade possible to maximize brilliance.

Emerald-Shaped Diamond (Emerald Cut)

An emerald-shaped diamond is characterized by its rectangular shape and stepped facets, which create a hall-of-mirrors effect rather than intense sparkle. This shape exudes sophistication and understated elegance.

Best For: Those who prefer a refined, vintage-inspired look with a focus on clarity over brilliance.
Why Choose It: The emerald cut’s large, open table highlights the diamond’s clarity, making it essential to choose a stone with high clarity grades.
Tip: Emerald cuts can emphasize inclusions, so opt for a higher clarity grade (VS2 or above) to ensure a clean appearance.

Other Popular Diamonds For Winnipeg Engagement Rings

Radiant-Cut Diamond

The radiant-cut diamond combines the elegance of an emerald cut with the brilliance of a round cut, featuring a square or rectangular shape with cropped corners. Similar to the elongated cushion cut, the radiant cut has gained popularity in recent years.

Best For: Those who love the rectangular and angular look, often in solitaires and hidden halo designs.
Why Choose It: The radiant cut offers exceptional brilliance and a unique shape that stands out in both simple and ornate settings.
Tip: Opt for a higher clarity grade (VS2 or above) due to its large facets, and choose a length-to-width ratio of 1.0 to 1.3 for a balanced appearance.

Pear-Shaped Diamond

The pear-shaped diamond, often referred to as a teardrop, features a rounded bottom that tapers to a single point, blending the sparkle of a round cut with a distinctive, elegant silhouette. Its unique shape exudes femininity and grace.

Best For: Those who want a striking, elongated shape that adds drama to rings or pendants, ideal for romantic or artistic styles.
Why Choose It: The pear shape’s asymmetry offers individuality, and its elongated form can make fingers appear slimmer.
Tip: Ensure symmetry in the pear’s curves and point, and protect the pointed end with a secure setting to prevent chipping.

Marquise-Cut Diamond

The marquise diamond, with its elongated, boat-like shape and pointed ends, creates a dramatic and regal appearance. Its shape is prized for both the elongating effect it has on the finger as well as its versatility in vintage designs.

Best For: Those who love bold, glamorous designs that make a statement, perfect for vintage-inspired or standout jewellery.
Why Choose It: The marquise’s elongated form flatters the hand, creating a slenderizing effect, and its brilliance adds captivating sparkle.
Tip: Check for symmetry to avoid a lopsided look, and choose a setting that protects the delicate pointed ends from damage.

Asscher-Cut Diamond

The Asscher-cut diamond is a square shape with cropped corners and stepped facets, resembling an emerald cut but with a more compact, octagonal outline. Its layered facets create a mesmerizing, almost hypnotic effect.

Best For: Fans of vintage and Art Deco-inspired engagement rings.
Why Choose It: The Asscher cut’s unique facet pattern offers a sophisticated, understated sparkle with a distinct personality.
Tip: Prioritize a high clarity grade (VS2 or above) as inclusions are more visible in its open facets, and ensure precise symmetry for optimal beauty.

Heart-Shaped Diamond

The heart-shaped diamond is a romantic and symbolic choice, featuring a distinct outline with a cleft at the top and a pointed bottom. Its faceting delivers a brilliant sparkle that enhances its sentimental appeal.

Best For: Those seeking a romantic, expressive diamond for engagement rings or special gifts, perfect for hopeless romantics.
Why Choose It: The heart shape’s bold, unmistakable form makes it a unique declaration of love with impressive brilliance.
Tip: Look for a symmetrical heart with a well-defined cleft and balanced lobes, and choose a secure setting to protect the pointed tip.

Trillion-Cut Diamond

The trillion-cut diamond, also known as a trilliant, is a triangular shape with curved or straight edges and pointed corners. The trillion is especially popular as a side stone in various three-stone engagement ring designs.

Best For: Those who want a striking, edgy diamond for unique engagement rings or as accent stones in larger designs.
Why Choose It: The trillion cut’s sharp angles and brilliant faceting create a dynamic, eye-catching effect.
Tip: Ensure the triangle’s sides are equal for symmetry, and choose a setting that protects the corners in order to prevent chipping.

Baguette-Cut Diamond

The baguette-cut diamond is a long, rectangular shape with stepped facets, similar to the emerald cut but narrower and more elongated. Its clean lines offer a sleek, minimalist elegance with subtle sparkle.

Best For: Those who prefer a modern, understated look, often used as accent stones or in minimalist ring designs.
Why Choose It: The baguette cut’s linear shape complements geometric designs and highlights a diamond’s clarity over brilliance.
Tip: Choose a high clarity grade (VS1 or above) due to the large, open facets, and ensure precise proportions for a polished look.

Old European-Cut Diamond

The old European-cut diamond, a predecessor to the modern round brilliant, features a circular shape with larger facets and a higher crown. It can often be found in a variety of vintage and antique jewellery.

Best For: Those who love historical elegance and vintage-inspired designs, ideal for heirloom-style engagement rings.
Why Choose It: The old European cut’s hand-cut facets and unique character evoke a romantic, old-world aesthetic.
Tip: Look for a well-preserved cut with minimal inclusions, as its larger facets may reveal imperfections more readily.

Old Mine-Cut Diamond

The old mine-cut diamond, another antique shape, is characterized by a rounded square or cushion outline with high crowns and small tables. Its chunky facets create a warm, glowing sparkle with a distinct vintage feel.

Best For: Those drawn to rustic, romantic designs with a historical flair, perfect for unique, heirloom-quality pieces.
Why Choose It: The old mine cut’s imperfect, hand-crafted charm offers a one-of-a-kind look that celebrates individuality.
Tip: Check for symmetry and choose a higher clarity grade, as inclusions are more visible in its open, hand-cut facets.

Rose-Shaped Diamond (Rose Cut)

The rose-cut diamond features a flat base and a domed top with triangular facets arranged in a rose-like pattern. It is popular in a variety of vintage and modern trending jewellery.

Best For: Those who like the subtle appeal of antique and vintage style rings.
Why Choose It: The rose cut’s low profile and gentle sparkle offer a distinctive, understated elegance that sets it apart from modern cuts.
Tip: Prioritize high clarity (VS2 or above) due to its transparent nature, and pair with settings that enhance its delicate beauty.

Hexagon-Cut Diamond

The hexagon-cut diamond is a rare, six-sided shape with straight or slightly curved edges, offering a bold, geometric look. Its faceting can vary, balancing brilliance with a modern, architectural appeal.

Best For: Those who want a unique, contemporary diamond that makes a statement in avant-garde jewellery designs.
Why Choose It: The hexagon cut’s uncommon shape and striking symmetry provide a unique alternative to the classic cuts and can look great in modern and vintage designs.
Tip: Ensure even sides for a balanced hexagon, and choose a secure setting to protect the corners from wear.

Kite-Cut Diamond

The kite-cut diamond, characterized by its elongated, four-sided shape that resembles a kite, features pointed ends and a sleek, angular outline. Its brilliant or stepped facets create a dynamic, modern sparkle.

Best For: Those seeking a unique engagement ring. It can go great as both a centre stone or as side stones in a three-stone ring.
Why Choose It: The kite is a perfect choice for a unique engagement ring, and has been trending over the past years among many designers.
Tip: Verify symmetry in the kite’s proportions, and protect the pointed ends with a sturdy setting to avoid damage.

Shield-Cut Diamond

The shield-cut diamond, resembling a medieval shield, features a unique, angular shape with a broad top and a tapered bottom. Its faceting delivers a mix of brilliance and geometric elegance, perfect for standout pieces.

Best For: Those who love bold, unconventional shapes with a touch of historical drama, ideal for custom jewellery.
Why Choose It: The shield cut makes for a stunning and unique look and has been popular in both diamonds and sapphires alike.
Tip: Choose a high cut grade for optimal sparkle, and ensure the setting secures the pointed lower end to prevent chipping.

How Diamond Shape Affects Sparkle, Size, And Price

Different diamond shapes can have significantly different sparkle patterns. As discussed, the sparkle and appearance of a radiant-cut diamond is much different from that of an emerald cut. For this reason, it is always important to think about the personal style of the person wearing it. Some diamond shapes, such as rounds, can be more expensive due to factors such as the amount of rough diamond lost during cutting and rarity. Elongated shapes, such as ovals, marquises, or pears, can appear larger than their carat weight, offering great value for those seeking a bigger look on a budget.

Choosing The Best Diamond Shape For Your Hand And Style

Choosing the perfect diamond is essentially down to personal style and preferences. For those who want the absolute brightest diamond possible, rounds, ovals, and cushions are great choices. However, if you love vintage styling, emerald cuts, pears, and marquises tend to complement that style much more. If, however, you are looking for something trending and modern, there are various new cuts such as kite and trillions, which tend to have waves of popularity due to social media.

Explore Custom Diamond Shapes At Omori

Are you ready to explore custom diamond shapes to find the perfect custom or round-cut engagement ring? Be sure to contact us to book your free consultation with an expert!

Omori’s Complete Guide To Diamond Shapes