A diamond’s shape is more than just an aesthetic choice: it can also carry unique traits defined by history and culture. What makes diamonds so cherished these days also extends to the fact that different shapes possess qualities that reflect your personality. In this handy guide, we will walk you through some of the more common diamond cuts and what they symbolise.
A diamond’s shape is not solely defined by its geometric shape, but also by the quality of its cut. Specific cuts can influence the amount of light the gemstone reflects and refracts, lending to its brilliant, shiny appearance. Cuts are typically categorised as brilliant cuts, featuring triangular or kite-shaped facets stemming from the centre, or step cuts, with their long, narrow, and rectangular facets arranged like stair steps. Careful considerations in a diamond’s cut will ensure you receive a dazzling gemstone that captures everyone’s attention.
We will cover some of the more popular diamond shapes often chosen for rings.
The classic round shape is popular for its timeless design that embodies tradition, eternity, and everlasting love. It is the perfect choice for couples who value tradition and a lasting romance, encapsulating a quiet, classical elegance that also conveys you and your partner’s loving commitment to each other.
A modern take on the round cut, oval cuts elongate the round shape to create an illusion of longer, more slender fingers. The oval cut represents creativity and individuality, while its bold, curved appearance augments it with charming femininity, romantic appeal, and a respect for tradition.
The princess cut is another popular option, featuring a square shape with pointed corners and a brilliance that matches a round cut diamond. Princess-cut diamonds are considered chic and contemporary choices, featuring sharp angles and a sophisticated appearance. These diamonds are known to symbolise confidence and even innovation. The four sides of the cut are also often considered a symbol of trust, understanding, honesty, and communication. All of these are enduring values that form a strong, loving relationship.
Like the oval cut, an emerald cut exudes a unique blend of luxurious elegance and sophistication, defined by its impressive brilliance and octagonal step cut. It is commonly known to symbolise clarity, a fitting trait given the emerald cut’s brilliant sparkle. This sense of clarity typically resonates with bold individuals who value purpose and vision.
The teardrop shape of a pear cut diamond embodies grace and gentle elegance, one that is said to represent the highs and lows faced by those in a deep, meaningful relationship. Moreover, it also symbolises love, passion, longevity, and devotion, while also celebrating self-empowerment and individuality, signifying your independent nature.
The Marquise cut is typically associated with the aristocracy. Its shape represents luxury, status, and a sense of dramatic grandeur. That significance stems from its alleged inception by King Louis XV of France in the 18th century to recreate the lips of his “chief mistress”, the Marquise de Pompadour. Given its aristocratic origins, the Marquise cut projects a sense of opulence and ambition that is well-suited for aspiring individuals seeking to make a name for themselves.
As one of the oldest diamond cuts, the cushion cut exudes a romantic, vintage charm that has been popular for many decades. It originated from the “old mine cut,” introduced in the 1700s, named after the old diamond mines of Brazil that were later replaced by new mines in South Africa.
Today, it is considered a hallmark of traditional beauty and contemporary styles that effortlessly showcases its timeless elegance even in the modern age. Taylor Swift’s engagement ring is an 8-carat cushion-cut diamond set on a beautiful gold band.
Conceived by the Royal Asscher Diamond Company, the Asscher cut features one-of-a-kind step cuts and geometric precision to create a unique shape. The Asscher cut features an intricate 72-facet design that showcases remarkable gem-cutting skill and conveys a certain old-world charm, given its associations with the aristocracy and nobility. It is an ideal choice for vintage lovers or those drawn to statement gems, as the Asscher cut embraces a timeless modern sophistication through its distinctive step cuts.
The shape of your diamond can also depend on the size of your hand. A proportionate diamond shape tends to look more balanced for smaller hands without overpowering the fingers. On the other hand, those with long, slender hands are complemented by elongated shapes that accentuate their appearance. Alternatively, smaller yet equally captivating cuts can also create a sense of balance.
Specific cuts may also appear larger than their actual carat weight, which can subtly enhance your ring’s appearance. Even your ring band’s design and setting can play a role in enhancing your diamond’s look and feel based on your preferences.
If you have trouble deciding, round cuts are typically the safe choice thanks to their classical, everlasting, and highly versatile charm. They are also less likely to catch on various surfaces like sharp table corners, which could damage the diamond or ring, making round cuts a solid choice for those who lead an active lifestyle.
Diamond shape trends have been evolving over the years. While round cuts remain extremely popular to this day, other shapes have also been steadily gaining traction. Asscher cuts, for example, have gained even more ground since the creation of the Royal Asscher cut, which is far more exquisite than its original predecessor. Even elongated shapes, such as the pear cut, are seeing renewed interest as buyers look to experiment with proportions for an intricate balance of brilliance and elegance.
Are you curious to know which diamond shape best suits you? At Ling Jewellery, our jewellers are ready to answer your queries and help you select the diamond shape you desire. Contact us today to find out more.
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