The term "diamond shape" describes the diamond's physical form and visual appearance. Each shape has unique characteristics that influence the diamond's overall look and brilliance, making shape one of the key factors customers consider when purchasing a diamond.

Though often used interchangeably, "diamond cut" and "diamond shape" refer to different aspects of the gem. Diamond cut relates to the stone's proportions, symmetry, facets, and reflective properties, while diamond shape refers to its outline or external form when viewed from above.

Diamonds come in various shapes, each with its own distinct qualities. The round brilliant-cut diamond is the most popular and traditional choice. However, there are also fancy shapes, such as the princess cut, emerald cut, cushion cut, Asscher cut, pear cut, heart cut, oval cut, marquise cut, and radiant cut diamonds. These fancy shapes are especially prized for engagement rings and fine jewelry due to their unique and captivating forms.

Additionally, alternative shapes like octagonal diamonds, trapezoids, baguettes, half-moons, and trillion-cut diamonds have recently gained popularity for their ability to create striking and distinctive designs.

Round Cut Diamonds

The brilliant round diamond is the most popular and iconic shape of all time, known for its perfect symmetry and unmatched brilliance. Representing approximately 75% of all diamonds sold, round diamonds have been the subject of extensive research and development by gemologists, more than any other diamond shape.

Featuring nearly 60 facets, round diamonds excel in light refraction, offering unparalleled fire and brilliance. Their timeless and classic appeal makes them the top choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. Due to their superior qualities, round-cut diamonds are often more highly valued than other diamond shapes.

Princess Cut Diamonds

The Princess Cut Diamond is celebrated for its modern, eye-catching style and ranks as the second most popular diamond shape, just after the round diamond.

The most sought-after princess-cut diamonds feature a perfectly square shape, sharp angles, and facet patterns that closely resemble those of brilliant round diamonds. Their versatility allows them to be set in various styles and metals, making them ideal for creating a wide range of stunning and unique looks.

Asscher Cut Diamonds

Introduced in 1902 by the renowned diamond cutter Joseph Asscher, the Asscher cut diamond shape shares many cutting techniques with the emerald cut but stands out with its uniquely angled and cropped corners. This distinctive design creates a timeless and sophisticated look, and Asscher cut diamonds often display greater brilliance than their emerald-cut counterparts.

Favored for vintage and Art Deco-inspired engagement rings and fine jewelry, Asscher cut diamonds are celebrated for their classic elegance and exceptional sparkle.

Radiant Cut Diamonds

Radiant cut diamonds, though relatively new to the jewelry industry, have made a significant impact since their introduction over 20 years ago. This unique diamond shape combines the elegant lines of an emerald cut with the brilliance of a traditional round diamond, resulting in a stunning hybrid. Available in various rectangular and square forms, each radiant cut diamond offers a distinct length-to-width ratio, catering to different aesthetic preferences.

True to their name, radiant cut diamonds are renowned for their breathtaking and unforgettable sparkle.

Cushion Cut Diamonds

First introduced to the jewelry market in the early 1800s, the cushion cut diamond is steeped in history. Originally known as the "old mine cut," this diamond shape was the standard for many years. Its classic design features a square or rectangular shape with gently rounded corners and sides, resembling a soft pillow or cushion.

Cushion cut diamonds continue to captivate, offering a romantic and vintage-inspired alternative to the brilliant round diamond, making them a timeless favorite.

Emerald Cut Diamonds

Emerald cut diamonds are the most sought-after step-cut shape, characterized by their elegant rectangular form, beveled corners, and large, open table. What sets emerald cut diamonds apart is their unique step-cut facets, which create a striking "hall of mirrors" effect, showcasing a captivating play of light and shadow.

Renowned for their rarity and exceptional transparency, emerald cut diamonds often demand higher clarity standards, making them a prized choice for those seeking a sophisticated and timeless look.

Marquise Cut Diamonds

The marquise cut is said to have been specially created for King Louis XIV of France, inspired by the smile of Marquise de Pompadour. This diamond shape features an elongated form with pointed ends, resembling a football.

Renowned for its distinctive and flattering silhouette, the marquise cut diamond exudes dramatic beauty and timeless elegance, making it a romantic choice that never goes out of style.

Oval Cut Diamonds

The oval diamond, introduced in the 1960s, shares the same number of facets as a round diamond but offers a distinctive variation. Its elongated shape not only enhances the diamond's visual size, creating the illusion of a larger stone, but also delivers nearly the same brilliance and fire as a round diamond—making it a popular choice for those looking to maximize their budget.

Oval cut diamonds are a versatile option, seamlessly blending classic elegance with a modern twist.

Pear Cut Diamonds

Known as the "teardrop diamond," the pear-cut diamond elegantly combines the features of both round and marquise shapes. With its rounded end tapering to a point, this unique diamond resembles a drop of water. First crafted in the 1400s by Flemish polisher Lodewyk van Berquem, the pear cut has a rich history.

Pear cut diamonds, a modified brilliant cut, are celebrated for their versatility. Depending on the setting, they can convey either a modern or vintage aesthetic. Additionally, the elongated shape of a pear cut diamond creates the flattering illusion of longer, slimmer fingers when worn.

Heart Cut Diamonds

Heart-shaped diamonds are the ultimate symbol of love and affection, making them a perfect choice for anniversary or engagement rings. As one of the most unique and recognizable fancy shapes, heart-shaped diamonds stand out for their distinctive beauty.

With a pointed cleft at the top and a rounded shape at the bottom, crafting a heart-shaped diamond is one of the most challenging diamond cuts. It requires exceptional skill and precision from the diamond cutter to achieve the perfect balance of symmetry and brilliance.