diamond shapes
All diamond shapes are different with unique characteristics determining quality for each shape.
| Shape | Description |
|---|---|
| Round | The modern round brilliant cut remains by far the most popular diamond shape. Based on Tolkowski’s 1919 mathematical formula, the round brilliant cut is designed to produce the optimal combination of brilliance, scintillation (sparkle), and dispersion (fire). Light performance in the round brilliant cut diamond has been studied extensively and is greatly affected by the proportions of the diamond. Please see The Most Important Cut for more information on cut. |
| Princess | The princess cut, or square brilliant cut, is the most popular non-round diamond. The princess has pointed corners and can vary from square to rectangular in shape. |
| Emerald | The emerald cut is a cut-cornered rectangular shape with long straight facets along the pavilion of the diamond. Designed for the linear Deco styles of the 1920’s, the emerald cut has a classic subtle appearance. Emerald cut diamonds can vary greatly in how rectangular they are. Be aware that clarity characteristics in the SI range, while not visible in most brilliant cuts, may be visible in the emerald cut. |
| Asscher | The Asscher is square cut-cornered shape with rectangular facets along the pavilion of the diamond, similar to the emerald cut. The depth on Asscher cuts can vary dramatically, resulting in some diamonds that may have a smaller face-up appearance than their weight would indicate. Be aware that clarity characteristics in the SI range, while not visible in most brilliant cuts, may be visible in the Asscher cut. |
| Oval | The oval has a faceting pattern that is based on the elongation of the round brilliant. |
| Marquise | The marquise is a brilliant cut with pointed ends. The elongated shape maximizes the carat weight, producing a diamond with a larger appearance. |
| Pear | The pear, or tear-drop is a brilliant cut with a single point with a rounded base. |
| Radiant | The radiant is a cut-cornered rectangle with a brilliant cut pavilion, developed during the 1980’s. Radiant cut diamonds can vary in their degree of rectangularity. |
| Cushion | The cushion is square to rectangular brilliant cut with rounded corners and sides. In varying patterns, the cushion shape has been popular for over 100 years. Some cushions have larger facets reminiscent of the antique styles while others have narrow facets similar to the princess cuts. |