Shape

Choosing the shape of diamond you prefer is no simple matter. Although the round--or brilliant--cut is most popular, diamonds come in many cuts, including oval, square or even heart-shaped. As our understanding of optical physics has grown, so has the number of available diamond shapes. When buying a diamond, you should choose the shape that satisfies your personal tastes and brings you the greatest enjoyment.

Shapes of Diamonds

ROUND DIAMOND

The brilliant round diamond shape has set the standard for all other diamond shapes and is admired for its sparkle. Its 58-facet cut achieves the maximum in fire and brilliance.

OVAL DIAMOND

An even, perfectly symmetrical design popular among women with small hands or shorter fingers. Its elongated shape gives a flattering illusion of length to the hand.

RADIANT DIAMOND

This square or rectangular cut combines the elegance of the emerald shape diamond with the brilliance of the round, and its 70 facets maximize the effect of its color refraction. Because of its design, this cut requires more weight to be directed toward the diamond's depth in order to maximize brilliance.

ASSCHER DIAMOND

The "Asscher cut diamond" was developed in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland. It is a stepped square cut, often called the "square emerald cut" and like an emerald cut, the Asscher has cropped corners.

MARQUISE DIAMOND

An elongated shape with pointed ends inspired by the fetching smile of the Marquise de Pompadour and commissioned by the Sun King, France's Louis XIV, who wanted a diamond to match it. It is gorgeous when used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller diamonds.

PRINCESS DIAMOND

This is a square or rectangular cut with numerous sparkling facets. This cut has both Step and Brilliant-cut facets. It is a relatively new cut that has become popular in solitaire engagement rings. Because of its design, this cut requires more weight to be directed toward the diamond's depth in order to maximize brilliance.

EMERALD CUT DIAMOND

This is a rectangular shape with cut corners. It is known as a step cut because it resembles stair steps. A stone of the Emerald / Baguette cut will usually be a stone of superior clarity and color.

PEAR CUT DIAMOND

A hybrid cut, combining the best of the oval and the marquise, it is shaped like a sparkling teardrop. The pear cut diamond is particularly beautiful for pendants or earrings.