What is a Diamond Shape?

A diamond shape is the specific manner in which a diamond is meticulously cut and crafted. When found in their natural, unprocessed state, diamonds possess an irregular and organic form. It is through the intricate process of cutting and polishing that these precious gems are transformed into the iconic shapes we recognise and cherish. Among these shapes, the classic and widely recognised round brilliant cut stands as the most traditional. All other diamond shapes fall under the category of 'fancy shape diamonds,' including popular variations such as oval, cushion, and princess cuts. Diamonds are skillfully fashioned into two primary categories of shapes: the brilliant cut, designed to unleash an extraordinary display of brilliance and sparkle, and the step cut, chosen to accentuate the diamond's remarkable clarity and elegance.

What are the different diamond shapes?

Diamonds come in various shapes, each with its unique charm and characteristics. Here are some of the most common diamond shapes:

• Round Brilliant Cut
• Princess Cut
• Emerald Cut
• Oval Cut
• Cushion Cut
• Pear Cut
• Marquise-Cut
• Heart Cut

These are some of the primary diamond shapes you'll encounter when shopping for diamond jewellery. Keep in mind that personal preferences and trends can influence the choice of diamond shape for engagement rings. The right diamond shape for you ultimately depends on your individual style and preferences.

Which diamond shapes are most popular for engagement rings?

The popularity of diamond shapes for engagement rings can vary by region and over time. However, the round brilliant cut diamond has historically been the most popular choice for engagement rings, in some regions, it represented over 70% of all engagement ring purchases and at Joshua James Jewellery around 45-50% of clients choose a round diamond. Following closely behind in popularity are diamond shapes such as oval, cushion, and pear. Notably, the once-dominant princess cut has yielded its position as the second most sought-after diamond shape to the gracefully rounded forms of oval, emerald, and pear diamonds. This shift in preference underscores the enduring appeal of softer, more organic silhouettes in contemporary engagement ring designs.

What diamond shapes look biggest?

The marquise diamond shape has the largest appearance of any shape. It has a similar elongated look as the oval and pear shapes, but both ends form tapered points. The marquise shape will always look the largest because those tapered points create the largest surface area of all the shapes.

Which diamond shape sparkles the most?

Round-cut diamonds are known to sparkle the most! The standard round-cut diamond features 57 facets (58 including one on the bezel) specifically designed to amplify the diamond’s brilliance and radiance. Round diamonds are able to create the most dazzling and captivating sparkle among all diamond shapes.

Which diamond shape is more valuable?

Round brilliant cut diamonds command the highest prices among all diamond shapes, primarily due to their widespread popularity. Round diamonds, being the most favoured shape, constitute over 50% of the diamond market today.

How many Carats should an Engagement Ring be?

In the UK, the average carat size for an engagement ring stands at 0.6 carats. When determining the carat size for your engagement ring, it's essential to consider a budget that aligns with both you and your partner's. Your engagement ring serves as a powerful symbol of your love and commitment to your future spouse. If the desired engagement ring is not within your budget, our financing option is available to help you make your dream ring a reality.

What is the history of diamond cuts?

The history of diamond cuts dates back to ancient India, where the earliest known diamonds were simply polished rather than cut with facets. Over time, diamond cutting techniques evolved, with significant contributions from European jewellers in the 17th and 18th centuries. The most famous and influential diamond cut is the round brilliant cut, developed in the early 20th century, which maximises the stone's brilliance and sparkle. Today, various diamond cuts, including princess, emerald, and marquise, offer diverse options for showcasing the beauty of these precious gems.

Did you know…

That there is in fact a difference between diamond cuts and diamond shapes. Diamond cut pertains to the precise manner in which a diamond is cut and polished (one of the four C's by which a diamond is graded), enhancing its ability to absorb and reflect light through its facets. On the other hand, a diamond's shape refers to the geometric form into which it is cut, defining its overall silhouette.
Overall, diamond shapes are not just exquisite gemstones but also intricate works of nature's artistry. Their diverse range of shapes, including the classic round brilliant, the romantic heart, the elegant oval, and the striking princess cut, among many others, offer a multitude of options for individuals seeking the perfect expression of their personal style and sentiment.
Each diamond shape has its own unique characteristics and visual appeal, making it essential to consider one's preferences, lifestyle, and intended purpose when selecting the ideal diamond shape.
Beyond their aesthetic value, diamonds hold a timeless allure, symbolising love, commitment, and enduring beauty.
The choice of a diamond shape is a deeply personal one, and each shape carries its own story and significance. Whichever diamond shape you choose, it is bound to represent a unique and cherished moment, making it a timeless and meaningful treasure.

The 4Cs