Diamonds come in a variety of shapes, each offering a unique look and fire. While the round brilliant cut remains the most popular, there’s a whole world of “fancy shapes” waiting to be explored. Whether you crave classic elegance or a touch of modern flair, choosing the right diamond shape is key to expressing your personal style.
Round Brilliant Cut: The Timeless Choice
The round brilliant cut reigns supreme for its unmatched brilliance. Its meticulous faceting maximizes light return, creating a dazzling display of fire and sparkle. Round diamonds are also the most versatile, complementing a wide range of jewelry designs.
Fancy Shapes: A World of Variety
For those seeking something beyond the ordinary, fancy shapes offer a captivating array of options. Here are some popular choices:
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Princess Cut: Combining a square silhouette with sharp corners, the princess cut exudes a modern and sophisticated air.
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Cushion Cut: Combining softened square or rectangular shapes with rounded edges, the cushion cut offers a romantic and vintage feel.
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Emerald Cut: Rectangular with elongated facets lab diamonds, the emerald cut delivers a sophisticated and elegant look, reminiscent of its namesake gemstone.
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Oval Cut: Elongated and symmetrical, the oval cut offers a flattering silhouette that creates the illusion of longer fingers.
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Pear Cut: Combining a teardrop shape with a pointed end, the pear cut lends a touch of whimsy and elegance.
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Marquise Cut: With pointed ends and a curved body, the marquise cut, also known as navette, creates an illusion of larger size and adds a touch of drama.
Choosing Your Diamond Shape
Beyond aesthetics, consider these factors when selecting your diamond shape:
- Personal style: Do you lean towards classic elegance, modern flair, or romantic whimsy?
- Setting: Certain shapes complement specific settings better. For instance, round diamonds work well in solitaires, while pear shapes might be suited for halo settings.
- Finger shape: Elongated shapes like oval or pear can flatter shorter fingers, while round or princess cuts can balance wider fingers.
Beyond the Basics
Remember, these are just a few of the many diamond shapes available. Explore lesser-known options like the radiant cut, known for its brilliance, or the asscher cut, with its cropped corners and vintage charm.
With a little research and guidance from a jeweler, you can discover the diamond shape that perfectly reflects your personality and style.