How to choose the right diamond shape for you or your loved one

Diamonds come in a wide range of different shapes and sizes. That means that when it comes to getting a diamond ring, there is bound to be one that is just absolutely perfect for you or your loved one.

From pear-shaped to princess shaped diamonds, there a variety of fancy cut diamond shapes to pick. If this all sounds a bit confusing to you and you want to find out more about the options available so you can pick the perfect diamond, take a look at our guide below. We will explain the main characteristic of each diamond shape so you can make a more informed decision when it comes to the buying process.

• Marquise
• Pear-shaped
• Baguette
• Cushion
• Emerald cut
• Princess
• Round brilliant
• Oval

Marquise diamonds

Marquise diamonds have been dated back to the 18th century when King Louis XV of France requested for a jeweller to make a diamond that was like the smile…of his mistress! The elongated shape that characterises marquise diamonds has evolved over the years to often being described as boat-shaped. Marquise diamonds have the effect of making fingers look more slender, and because of the shape, create the visual illusion of a diamond that is bigger than it is.

Pear-shaped diamonds

This type of diamond combines the marquise shape and that of a round brilliant diamond to create a breathtakingly beautiful sparkle. They are also commonly referred to as teardrop diamonds and it is an all-round very popular choice. For example, Elizabeth Taylor once wore a 69.42-carat pear-shaped diamond necklace given by her then-husband Richard Burton.

Baguette diamonds

Typically used with more than one stone in order to create a cluster design for an engagement ring, baguette diamonds have been a highly popular engagement ring choice since the 1920s. It is the ideal engagement ring for those looking for something that is both refined and sophisticated in nature.

 

Cushion diamonds

Cushion cut diamonds date back to the 19th century and differentiate from other shapes due to the large facets of the ring. This allows for a greater dispersal of colour, giving the ring a super glamourous edge. A great pick for those looking for a showstopper ring.

 

Emerald cut diamonds

Emerald cut diamonds are cut with 57 facets and are rectangular in shape with rounded corners, inspired by the shape of emerald stones.

 

 

They date back as far as the 1500s and tend to be a very popular choice for those who prefer vintage-inspired jewellery.

 

Princess diamonds

A princess-cut diamond is square-shaped and very contemoprary in style compared to other diamond shapes as it dates back to 1961. This type of diamond cut tends to complement engagement rings with larger carats.

 

Round brilliant diamonds

Round brilliant diamonds are completely symmetrical in shape, which means that light is perfectly dispersed from each and every angle, creating a stream of colour. This is one of the reasons why it tends to be a favourite style for engagement rings.

Oval diamonds

Alongside the emerald-cut diamond, oval-shaped diamonds tend to be loved by those who like all things vintage, as they have a more classic feel.  Oval diamonds have an interesting history, as they had been cut for well over a hundred years before becoming official in 1977 as an oval-shaped diamonds. It is diamond perfect for someone looking for a ring that is elegant yet a little contemporary too.