What is the Difference Between Diamond Cut & Shape

In our diamond education series, we’ll be covering diamond shapes first.  Diamond shape should not be confused with the diamond cut – which is one of the 4 Cs. Scroll to the bottom for our complete diamond education chart and some examples of each diamond shape from our inventory.

What is the difference between diamond cut and shape?

The shape of a diamond is not how the stone is cut, but how it is shaped after being cut. This is the exterior figure of the diamond. For example, heart-shaped, round, or cushion all refer to the actual shape and appearance of the diamond. Some shapes may influence the perceived size of a stone, making them appear larger or smaller than their actual carat size.

The cut refers to the facets, symmetry, dimensions and reflective qualities of the diamond. The finer the cut of a diamond, the greater the brilliance and fire. A well-cut diamond is luminous and reflects light back to the eye. A poorly cut diamond is dull instead of brilliant.

Diamond cuts are classified as excellent, very good, good, fair, and poor. Diamond cut may also be referred to as deep, shallow, or ideal cut. A diamond’s cut grade is influenced by the weight relative to its diameter, its girdle thickness, the symmetry of its facet arrangement, and the quality of polish on those facets.

What are the most common diamond shapes?

Although you may come across some other shapes unique to a brand or a designer, the primary diamond shapes are the following:

Round

This is the most popular diamond shape, representing about 75% of all diamonds sold. Round shaped diamonds are typically better at reflecting light and maximizing brightness. Many round diamonds are cut in the brilliant style – featuring more facets and angles. In contrast, old mine diamonds were cut with larger, open facets.

Princess

The princess cut diamond is another very popular diamond shape for engagement rings. This cut appears very square with sharp corners and is usually set with 4 prongs to protect the corners from chips.

Emerald

This shape features step cuts of its pavilion and a large, open table. Instead of the distinct sparkle of round shaped diamonds, emerald shaped diamonds have much more of a mirror-like effect. Inclusions can be much easier to see with the naked eye in this shape of diamond.

Cushion

The cushion shaped diamond is square with rounded corners. Cushion shaped diamonds can come in various ratios, resulting in either a square appearance or more rectangular.

Oval

Oval shaped diamonds are admired for their flattering, elongated shape, which can create the illusion of a larger appearance. Considered a “modified brilliant-cut,” ovals possess a similar brilliant sparkle to round, brilliant cut diamonds.

Heart

Heart shaped diamonds are modified brilliant cuts that produce lots of sparkle. The ultimate symbol of love and romance, this unique shape is often set in solitaire pendants. Since the heart shape is more difficult to perceive in smaller weights, it is recommended to choose a heart shaped diamond above .50 carats.

Pear

Combining the sparkle of a round brilliant cut with the flattering, elongated shape of a marquise, the pear-shaped diamond has become an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings. Varying in length/width proportions, the “tear drop” shaped diamond can range in appearance from short and chubby to long and thin, with the optimal ratio usually somewhere between 1.55 and 1.75.

Marquise

The marquise is an elliptical shaped diamond with pointed ends. A modified brilliant cut, the marquise dates all the way back to the 18th century, when King Louis XC of France commissioned a jewelry to design a cut shape that resembled the lips of his mistress. Due to its long and narrow shape, the marquise diamond can make the finger appear longer and slenderer. It also has one of the largest surface areas of any diamond shape, maximizing its perceived size.

Examples of Diamond Shapes

Diamond Education at a Glance

If you would like shopping assistance and guidance from one of our G.I.A. Gemologists we invite you to schedule an appointment below or visit us.

We will help you select the perfect diamond engagement ring or gift. We have master jewelers and custom jewelry design services in-house if you choose to create a custom diamond ring. We also offer professional appraisal services, as well as fine jewelry buying, trade, and consignment options.

Visit any one of our South Florida locations today or schedule an appointment online.