Which Diamond Cuts and Shapes Are Right for Me?

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by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read

THE BASICS--

There are many different diamond cuts to choose from, but every option is not equally flattering on every finger. How can you choose the right diamond cuts for you?

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--

In this guide, we will explain the following:

• What is a Diamond Cut?
• Choosing Your Best Diamond Cut
• Type of Jewelry
• Ring Style
• Finger Proportions
• Popularity
• Cost
• Visual Size
• Setting
• Symbolism
• Personal Preference
  
• Choosing a Diamond Shape

What Is a Diamond Cut?

The term "cut" generally has two meanings when describing diamonds and diamond jewelry. To jewelers, lapidaries, gemologists, and other industry professionals, the cut is the precision of how a diamond has been shaped. This includes how facets fit together, the angles of the stone, its overall dimensions and proportions, and how symmetrical the facets are around the stone. This impacts how light interacts with the diamond’s crystal structure, including both external reflection and internal refraction, as well as the overall fire and sparkle the stone may exhibit under different lighting conditions. The polish on the facets is considered part of its cut, and a well-cut stone will be at its most brilliant and most durable.

To the lay person, however, diamond cut most often refers to the stone’s overall shape. There are a number of popular diamond shapes common in different jewelry pieces, with the classic round being the most familiar and popular shape. Other very popular options include princess, oval, and emerald, while cushion, asscher, pear, and marquise shapes are slightly less popular but still familiar. Heart shapes are a whimsically romantic choice for diamonds, while edgier shapes such as the lozenge, trillion, and baguette are more unique and distinctive choices. people are rediscovering antique diamond shapes and all their vintage beauty.

Choosing Your Best Diamond Cut

When choosing the right diamond cut for you, it is important to always opt for the best jeweler’s definition that will fit within your budget. A higher quality, precise cut will show the stone at its best and reflect the most light for a brilliant bit of sparkle in any shape, and a good cut also ensures the stone is as durable as it can be.

Choosing diamond shape is a much more subjective matter, however, but it is still important to consider different factors when selecting the perfect diamond cut, such as:

Type of Jewelry

If the diamond will be set in an engagement ring, the considerations for its cut may be very different than for a diamond bracelet or a pair of earrings.

Ring Style

For rings, consider whether the design is a solitaire, band, three-stone setting,
cocktail ring, or other style, all of which may look best with different diamond cuts.

Finger Proportions

Different diamond shapes work best in rings for slender fingers, while others are best to balance thicker fingers or big knuckles.

Popularity

If a diamond cut is very popular, such as princess or round, there may be more options to choose from than if the shape is more unique such as asscher or trillion cuts.

Cost

If the budget is tight, a less perfect jeweler's cut can be more affordable, or look for more popular, easier-to-find shapes and styles that are available at more price points.

Visual Size

Elongated shapes such as emerald, pear, oval, and marquise maximize the visual appearance of the stone, giving a “larger” look for the same carat weight.

Setting

The diamond's setting should show off its best assets and not conceal the cut too much, or else the uniqueness and brilliance of the gem may be lost.

Symbolism

Consider the symbolism of the diamond shape, such as the romance of a heart, the eternity of a round shape, or the solid, firm foundation of an emerald-cut diamond.

Personal Preference

Some people prefer the classic, traditional shapes such as round or cushion, while others want more drama like a marquise or baguette cut.

Choosing a Diamond Cut

Ultimately, the right diamond cut for you is the one you like most, that you enjoy wearing, and you will want to wear for years to come. Whether that is the “right” cut for you based on someone else’s opinion, fashion trends, or expectations is irrelevant. The best option is to try several different cuts to see what you like most — it could be a surprise! — and that will make the cut the right choice for your favorite pieces of diamond jewelry.

Suzanne Sachs

Suzanne has always believed vintage rings can change lives. She's been in the jewelry industry for over 35 years, working with vintage jewelers, diamond dealers, diamond cutters, and gemologists. Suzanne started Artdecodiamonds in 2000 and understood the demand for vintage rings throughout the world. She ultimately started VintageDiamondRing.com in 2014, and understands each vintage ring is a reflection of you — your history, your relationships, your style, your elegance and is honored to have the opportunity to help you showcase your flair in a unique and exquisite way.