Selecting the diamond shape is the primary and most stylistic decision in choosing an engagement ring , as it sets the entire style’s tone. To guide your decision, we’ve detailed the five most popular diamond shapes and the unique appeal of each. For modern couples, lab grown diamonds present an increasingly popular option: they match mined diamonds in every way—offering the same physical properties, brilliance, and sparkle—while being significantly more budget-friendly.
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1. The Round Brilliant
When you picture an engagement ring, you’re likely picturing the Round Brilliant. Accounting for roughly 60% of all diamonds sold, this shape has reigned supreme for decades—and for good reason.
Why Choose It:
- Maximum Brilliance: With 58 carefully placed facets, the Round Brilliant is scientifically engineered to return the most light, providing unparalleled sparkle, fire, and brilliance.
- Timeless Versatility: It looks stunning in every setting, from a simple solitaire to a vintage halo or a modern bezel.
- The Classic Choice: It symbolizes enduring tradition and universal elegance.
Who It’s For: The traditionalist who prioritizes maximum sparkle, or someone who wants a versatile diamond that will never go out of style.
2. The Oval
The Oval cut has surged in popularity over the last few years, merging the brilliant sparkle of the Round with the flattering elongation of the Marquise.
Why Choose It:
- Finger Flatterer: Its elongated silhouette creates the illusion of longer, slender fingers, a trait loved by many brides.
- Looks Larger: Due to its broad surface area, an Oval cut diamond often appears visually larger than a Round diamond of the same carat weight.
- Hidden Imperfections: Its high brilliance helps conceal minor inclusions or subtle color tints.
Who It’s For: The trendsetter who wants a traditional feel but with a unique, slimming twist.
Related Post: Finding the Best Engagement Ring to Suit Your Hand Type
3. The Cushion
Often called the “Pillow Cut,” the Cushion diamond features a soft, square or rectangular shape with rounded corners and large facets. This shape has a history stretching back nearly 200 years, giving it an inherently vintage soul.
Why Choose It:
- Soft Romance: The rounded edges give a slightly softer, more romantic appeal than sharper square cuts.
- Unique Sparkle: Unlike the Round’s tiny, bright pinpricks of light, the Cushion produces broader, fiery flashes of light—often described as looking like crushed ice or candlelight.
- Excellent Value: Cushions often offer a slightly better price point per carat than their Round counterparts.
Who It’s For: The person who loves vintage aesthetic, historic charm, or desires a ring that feels cozy, luxurious, and distinctly romantic.
4. The Princess
The Princess cut is the second most popular shape globally. It is a striking square cut known for its clean lines and impressive brilliance.
Why Choose It:
- Superior Brilliance: Like the Round, the Princess cut is known for excellent light return, offering nearly as much sparkle as the king of cuts.
- Modern Geometry: Its sharp, architectural corners lend themselves perfectly to contemporary, minimalist settings.
- Efficient Cutting: Because a Princess cut utilizes nearly 80% of the rough diamond crystal, there is less waste, often making it a slightly better value than a Round of comparable quality.
Who It’s For: The person who appreciates structure, sharp lines, and modern aesthetics but refuses to compromise on brilliance.
5. The Emerald Cut
The Emerald cut is the most famous example of a “step-cut” diamond. Instead of thousands of tiny brilliant facets, the Emerald cut features long, rectangular facets arranged concentrically—like steps leading into the stone.
Why Choose It:
- Architectural Elegance: It offers a sleek, sophisticated, and undeniably luxurious look reminiscent of the Art Deco era.
- The Hall of Mirrors Effect: Instead of sparkle, the Emerald cut provides spectacular flashes of light and dark, creating a dramatic, optical “hall of mirrors” effect that emphasizes clarity.
- The Showstopper: Its rectangular shape often looks incredibly large and impactful on the finger.
Who It’s For: The person prioritizing clarity and size appearance over fire, who values sophistication and clean, architectural lines.
Pro Tip: The Clarity Conundrum
Because step-cut diamonds like the Emerald and Asscher have large, open facets, they provide a very clear view deep into the stone. If you choose an Emerald or Asscher cut, it is generally recommended to opt for a higher clarity grade (VS1 or higher) to avoid visible inclusions.
Which Diamond Shape Looks Bigger?
If maximizing the appearance of size is a priority, consider diamonds with elongated silhouettes and larger shallow tables:
| Diamond Shape | Key Benefit |
|---|---|
| Oval | Long surface area makes it look 10-15% larger than a Round carat-for-carat. |
| Marquise | Very elongated points create a stunning spread; it’s one of the largest-looking shapes available. |
| Pear (Teardrop) | The pointed end draws the eye outward, creating a beautiful long line on the finger. |
How to Choose Your Perfect Diamond Shape
Choosing the shape is a deeply personal decision, and there are no wrong answers. A great diamond shape should reflect the unique personality and style of the wearer.
- Consider the Wearer’s Jewelry Wardrobe: Does she overwhelmingly wear delicate, classic pieces (Round), or does her style lean toward bold, architectural statements (Princess or Emerald)?
- Think About the Hand: If the wearer has smaller hands or shorter fingers, elongated shapes (Oval, Pear) are incredibly flattering.
- Prioritize Sparkle vs. Clarity: If maximum shimmer is the goal, stick to the Brilliant cuts (Round, Princess, Cushion). If you love the dramatic precision, choose the Step cuts (Emerald, Asscher).
Ultimately, the best diamond shape is the one that makes your heart skip a beat. Happy shopping!