When it comes to choosing a wedding ring, most brides tend to look at celebrity wedding and engagement rings to find inspiration for their own. From Nicole Kidman’s diamond studded Cartier ring to Lady Gaga’s massive heart-shape diamond ring, it is no wonder brides have tons of ideas on what they want. Here are some facts and history about diamond cuts for you before making your choice on which shape defines you the most.
1. Round Cut
The round cut is the most popular diamond shape and the most expensive cut for a lot of rough stones are lost in the process of cutting this round diamond. Even though it is a common diamond shape, it is still a favourite choice among due to its excellent light refraction properties and that it is much more valuable than the other fancier shapes.
2. Princess Cut
One thing about the princess cut that makes it a favourite among many is that its square and sometimes slightly rectangular shape matches with any style of ring. Not only that, unlike the round cut, the efficiency to shape this cut is high which leads to a lower price. The more rectangular the shape the lower the price as not much rough stone is lost in the process of forming this beautiful shape.
3. Asscher Cut
If you are looking for a vintage diamond cut, asscher cuts are the perfect ones for they were very popular during the 1920’s but made a comeback during the early 21st century. Even though the asscher cut falls under the square shape category, its cropped corners gives it a charming octagonal shape.
4. Radiant Cut
If you love the round cut and the emerald cut but have to choose only one, go for the radiant cut for it is the combination of both these shapes. The radiant cut preserves more of the rough stone than brilliant cuts which means you will be getting more diamond than the price’s worth! Due to its many facets, the radiant cut definitely exudes a sparkly appearance for those who chooses this cut.
5. Cushion Cut
Another cut which has been around for almost 200 years and is a common shape in vintage jewelleries and rings. The cushion cut garnered favouritism after the famous Hope Diamond which is of the same cut. Aside from the asscher cut, the cushion cut is another good option for those who are planning to have an antique-looking wedding ring.
6. Emerald Cut
For those who are looking for a cut that displays class and sophistication, the emerald cut is the perfect choice. The emerald cut is also less costly than the round cut and princess cut for most of its rough weight is preserved when cut. Also, instead of having a brilliant cut, the emerald shape gives out a hall-of-mirror effect and looks great on long, slender fingers.
7. Marquise Cut
Marquise cut diamonds can be seen on antique jewelleries, pendants, brooches and necklaces, making this shape another beautiful vintage cut. Its elongated shape also gives illusion that it is much bigger even though its carat weight or size is the same with other diamonds. This cut also makes the wearer’s finger appear longer and slimmer.
8. Oval Cut
Similarly to the marquise cut, the oval cut also flatters the wearer’s finger and is a great choice for those who wants a rounded but unique shape. You should also be aware that there a few oval sizes ranging from a wide to narrow cut. The oval cut does not cost as much as the round cut making it a favourite among those who are on a budget.
9. Pear Cut
This elegant and stunning diamond is a hybrid of the round and marquise cuts and is also referred to as the “teardrop” cut. A favourite shape for necklaces and earrings, this cut can also work well on solitaire rings. The narrower pear cut are much more suitable for earrings while the wider ones makes good stand-out diamonds on rings.
10. Heart Cut
What better way to show your love for each other with a heart cut diamond ring which is a shape that requires immense skills to create. If you are going to get a heart cut diamond ring, make sure it is larger than .5 carats for you can’t really see the details and shape of the diamond if it is smaller than that. One of the most difficult cut to create, most heart cut diamond rings are solitaire rings to allow a high visibility of its shape and be the sole attention on your finger.
Now that you’ve known more or less about diamond cuts, you can proceed to determine which one you love best. Also, it’s good to ask and look around if you have a budget allocated for your diamond wedding ring. If you are planning to have a customized engagement ring, get inspirations online and also consider on which diamond cut you prefer as the main stone of your ring!
