Diamond Engagement Rings, Diamonds and Fine Wedding Jewelry - Perfect Diamonds

Choosing the shape for the diamonds in your jewelry is one of the key elements in determining the overall appearance of your rings and other diamond jewelry.

There are many shapes and variations from which to choose, but first off do not confuse "shape" with "cut". A diamond's shape is just that: the outward appearance of the stone, whether it is round, oval etc.; while the cut refers to how the diamond itself is fashioned, how many facets and so on. Below are some of the various diamond shapes and a little about them, in order to help you make that all-important choice.

Round Brilliant Diamonds - By far the most popular, accounting for more than 75% of diamonds purchased today, they are also the most expensive. Most coveted as an engagement ring, they also find their way into earrings and pendants. Round Brilliant Diamonds are noted for their fire and brilliance.

Oval Diamonds - A perfectly symmetrical design yields a large surface area that gives the impression of a much larger diamond, oval cut diamonds are favored by women with smaller hands or shorter fingers, it's shape giving an elongated look to the hand.

Princess Cut Diamonds - Though in appearance the smallest of diamonds, a Princess Cut Diamond is basically an inverted pyramid which puts most of the carat weight near the bottom. Princess cut diamonds are most often sought as solitaires, and are a relatively recent shape.

Marquise Diamonds - Another diamond shape that looks larger than it actually is, the Marquise diamond is elongated with points on each end, though sometimes altered to a "French tip" where the end point is excised. A great choice for a solitaire.

Emerald Cut - Rectangular with corner cuts, this diamond is also called a step cut, because of the shape that resembles stair steps. Large, open facets on the Emerald Cut Diamond make it imperative to choose a stone of greater clarity and higher color, as inclusions and weak color are more noticeable in this cut.

Pear Shape Diamond - Exactly as it says, this diamond is pear-shaped, or sometimes reminding one of a teardrop. Most often pear shaped diamonds are found on pendants and earrings.

Heart Shaped Diamonds - A brilliant cut, Heart shaped diamonds are a romantic choice that varies from jeweler to jeweler as it's shape can be greatly influenced by the skill of whimsy of the gem cutter, as well as variable facet configurations. Seek out a perfectly symmetrical stone.

Trillion Cut Diamonds - A newcomer, born in the late seventies, this diamond is a triangle stone with equal sides. Trillion Cut Diamonds make stunning earrings.

Baguette Cut Diamonds - Another step cut diamond shape that is most frequently employed as side stones. Because Baguette Cut Diamonds have few facets, quality and color come into play more here as imperfections become more visible in these uncomplicated, though elegant diamonds.

Radiant Diamonds - A square or rectangularly shaped diamond, the Radiant cut Diamond resembles the emerald shape but has 70 facets, making it much more brilliant and dazzling than the Emerald shape.

Asscher Cut Diamonds - A rectangular shaped diamond with high crown step facets, the Asscher cut Diamond was patented in 1902 and is now known for it's fire and ability to return light.

Cushion Cut Diamonds - Sometimes referred to as "pillow cut", this shape was popular in the 1800's. Cut with candle light in mind, (nothing else available at the time!) the cushion cut diamond is a rectangular/squarish shape, with more than a touch of old world elegance about it.

Czar Cut , Criss-Cut & Half-Moon diamonds - Lesser known shapes but worth checking out.

Choosing the right shapes for your diamonds can be more easily accomplished with a little information and the help of a professional jeweler. Here's hoping you find that perfect diamond!

 

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