Rules Of Engagement

Although a diamond may be a diamond to you regardless of the shape, the actual shape of the diamond can be of great importance to your lady! Although the shape of the diamond will not affect its quality, finding out information about the shapes is an important part of the buying process. Just as important is finding out which shape your future bride prefers! You will find that most women have a very specific shape in mind when they envision the engagement ring on their finger. However, there are some ladies out there that just say, “I don’t care what it looks like, I just want the ring!” For these kinds of ladies who don’t specify exactly what they are looking for, first examine what jewelry they own to see if there is a pattern of shape in what they have selected for themselves. If she’s a girl that isn’t too into jewelry, then you are on your own! Sort of. Keep reading to find out which shape best matches your lady from the descriptions below.

Round Brilliant – The round brilliant cut is the most popular and traditional diamond shape. Cut to achieve maximum brilliance, this eternal favorite is for the classic bride. Because of the popularity of this cut you will find a lot of variety in terms of color and clarity.

Princess – The princess cut is the second most popular cut behind the round brilliant. As an alternative to the round brilliant, this cut provides the same brilliance as the round but in an alternative shape. Sometimes referred to as a square modified brilliant, this princess shape is typically square or slightly more rectangular with sharp pointed corners.

Oval – With an elegant look, the oval shape is an elongated brilliant cut, providing a symmetrical and flattering shape that creates a slimming effect on the finger. It is a very romantic shape for the sophisticated bride. You will often find the oval cut surrounded with smaller diamonds and along the band.

Emerald – Instead of having a brilliant cut, the emerald shape has a step cut and is rectangular with cut corners. This shape is best chosen with a high quality diamond as the major appeal of this cut is its transparency. Similarly, an emerald cut may highlight the diamond’s flaws, so it is best to select a diamond with good clarity and color. The emerald cut offers less fire than the brilliant cut, but instead offers an extremely stylish and sophisticated look.

Asscher – Sometimes known as the emerald square cut, the asscher diamond is the same as the emerald except it is square shaped instead of rectangular but also with cut corners. When selecting an asscher cut diamond, pay attention to the length width ratio to find the evenly proportioned shape.

Heart - The most sentimental of shapes, a heart shaped diamond symbolizes love. It is a very particular woman who would request this shape and you will notice that they are more difficult to find. When selecting a heart cut, make sure to look for an even shape.

Cushion - The cushion cut is essentially a square or rectangular shaped diamond with rounded corners. Cushion cut diamonds are available in shapes ranging from square to rectangular. It has a romantic antique look that was most popular in the 19th century. You will find that most gemstones from the 19th and early 20th century were cushion cuts.

Radiant – This diamond is either square or rectangular and borrows the shape of the emerald with its square shape and cut corners with the fire of the round brilliant. This shape is mostly used for side diamonds and baguettes but is a very versatile diamond.

Pear - Combination of the marquise and oval cut. The pear shape looks like a teardrop because of its rounded end and will often be found as pendants or earrings that dangle.

Marquise - Commissioned by Louis XIV who wanted a diamond to match the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour. This cut is very elegant and is often used when buying a both the engagement ring and wedding band together. This shape is often used with side diamonds and sits parallel to the finger.

Now that you know more about shapes you can go on your hunt armed with more knowledge of how the shape goes with the rest of the diamond package. Because so much of the choice of shape depends on personal preference, try to find out ahead of time from your lady what she likes without giving too much away. Good luck!

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