Explore the 4C's: Cut
Diamonds come in a variety of cuts.
The round brilliant is the most popular of all diamond shapes. Other shapes are called "Fancy Cut Diamonds"
Round Brilliant Cut Diamond
The Round Brilliant Cut diamond is the most traditional and popular of all diamond shapes. Approximately 80% of all loose diamonds sold are round cut. A round cut diamond has a total 57 facets, 33 on the top portion (called “the crown”) and 24 facets on the bottom (called “the pavilion”). A round diamond that is cut to excellent specifications will have great brilliance to the eye. The round cut diamond has evolved tremendously over the years and has rightfully earned its place today as the most desired and sought after of all of the diamond cuts.
Round Brilliant Cut diamonds are traditionally set in a solitaire four-prong solitaire mounting to showcase their brilliance.
Princess Cut Diamond
The Princess Cut diamond is the second most popular diamond shape. The square shape allows for a slightly greater corner-to-corner length than a round diamond. This means that a princess cut diamond will appear larger than round cut of the same carat weight. Even though the Princess cut name is popular throughout the world, the cut is actually originally named “Square Modified Brilliant” and it is labeled so so on many laboratory certificates.
Princess Cut diamonds are traditionally set in solitaire four-prong solitaire mounting to showcase their fine edges.
Emerald Cut Diamond
The Emerald cut diamond, (cut similar to a precious emerald gemstone) also known as a step cut diamond (for the way It resembles a net of steps) has fewer facets than the more popular round diamond. The diamond is rectangular or square In shape with tapered corners. Unlike some other fancy shaped diamonds which look somewhat similar, the emerald diamond has a completely unique look of its own. People who prefer the emerald diamond are looking to make a statement about their creativity and individuality. In this capacity the sleek and beautiful look of this popular heirloom diamond cannot be duplicated. The emerald cut diamond ring today has become increasingly popular with celebrities and the fashion elite.
Emerald Cut diamonds are traditionally set in a 3-stone and solitaire mounting.
Oval Cut Diamond
The Oval cut diamond is actually an elongated brilliant cut diamond. Like the round cut, when the oval is cut well the diamond has tremendous brilliance and fire. Because of its elongated shape and curvature, it is considered an only classical and elegant diamond. The type of setting you choose for your oval-shaped diamond will greatly impact the impression it gives. The oval diamond ring is a timeless engagement ring that flatters the shape of the hand and will always remain In style.
Oval Cut diamonds are traditionally set in a solitaire, 3-stone, or halo mounting.
Pear Cut Diamond
The Pear cut diamond is a timeless beauty used in fine jewelry and designer engagement rings. The pear shape diamond is essentially a fusion of the marquise and oval diamonds. Combining the ‘best of both worlds’. You get the beautiful rounded edge on top of the diamond, as well as the distinctive taper on the bottom.
Pear cut diamonds are traditionally set in halo or artisan mounting.
Cushion Cut Diamond
Cushion cut diamonds combines a square table with rounded corners, much like a pillow(hence the name). The cushion cut diamond usually appears larger than its actual weight, making it an ideal diamond choice for anyone who would like the look of a larger diamond at a better diamond value. The cushion cut diamond has garnered a tremendous fan club for its classy look.
Cushion cut diamonds are traditionally set in a halo diamond engagement ring setting.
Heart Cut Diamond
The Heart cut diamond hides its true complexity behind a veneer of romance. Heart shaped diamonds are actually pear shaped diamonds with a distinctive deft on top Instead of the rounded edges. It is incredibly difficult to cut a piece of diamond rough Into a beautiful (polished) heart shape diamond. It requires a great degree of skill, and even one mistake on the by the diamond cutter will make the difference between a visually stunning vs. a lifeless diamond.
Heart cut diamond are traditionally set in a solitaire mounting.