10 of the Most Popular Diamond Shapes for Engagement Rings

Image Credit: Kimberly Fowler

The fabulous Marilyn Monroe said it all when she sang about diamonds being a girl’s best friend. The diamond has a long history as the must-have gemstone due to its dazzling beauty and adaptability. Plus, there are so many beautiful diamond shapes, also known as diamond cuts, to choose from. 

Then again, choosing the best diamond cut isn’t such a breeze because of the sheer number of choices. And that’s why we wrote this article about the most popular diamond shapes. By the end of this article, you’ll have a better idea of what cut you want on you or your beloved’s engagement ring.

10 Best-loved Diamond Shapes:

• Round 

• The round diamond has no beginning or end. Hence, it stands for eternity, completeness, wholeness, and harmony. The round brilliant cut, otherwise called the "RBC," is the most recognizable diamond shape and cut. In fact, about 75% of all diamonds in the market are in this shape. A lot of workmanship goes into shaping a round diamond, so it loses half of its initial size. The high demand for the round diamond, the required craftsmanship, and other factors make it the most expensive cut.  Nonetheless, it is worth every cent simply because it’s glamorous. This circular shape is ideal for individuals who wish to put elegance, simplicity, and tradition first. 

• Oval 

• Bold and contemporary best describes oval cut diamonds. This diamond cut is relatively new as it first appeared in the mid-1900s. When worn on the finger, its extended form can provide the illusion of length. Plus, its smooth edges make it less at risk of chipping or getting entangled in hair or fabric. This is an option for individuals who desire to stand out since it’s frequently associated with creativity and uniqueness.   

• Cushion 

• Cushion diamonds are classic, romantic, and inspire a soft feeling. It was made famous when Prince Harry chose this diamond for Meghan Markle’s engagement ring. Cushion cut diamonds are known for their smooth edges and excellent light dispersion as their large facets reflect and refract light in all directions. At the right angle, these diamonds disperse all the colors in a rainbow. It may not be as popular as the other cuts on this list but that also makes it less expensive – yet, in no way less elegant. 

• Princess 

• Princess cut diamonds are contemporary and feminine. Their shape resembles an inverted pyramid and stands out in terms of brilliance and luster. But these diamonds also flash diverse color varieties depending on the angle the light hits. The price of princess cut diamonds are based on the number of facets. However, the feature that makes this diamond so bright is also a disadvantage. Specifically, the diamond’s sharp corners make it prone to chipping.

• Emerald  

• Inspired and made famous by the Art Deco movement in the 1920s, emerald cut diamonds are sophisticated and alluring. They have a distinct step-cut rectangular feature that runs around their pavilions. This unique diamond has been worn by celebrities such as Beyonce and the Crown Princess Mary of Denmark. This radiant cut may lack brilliance because of its large appearance but it can be complemented with tapered baguettes.   

• Radiant  

• Daring and complex– that’s what makes a radiant cut diamond. First unveiled by the master jeweler Henry Grossbard in the 70’s, this diamond shape seeks to combine the cut design of round and emerald diamonds. The breathtaking result is a square-shaped diamond with edges as smooth as a round cut diamond.  

• Pear 

• Delicate, elegant, and flirtatious, this diamond cut mimics nature. Pear cut diamonds can generate sentiments of harmony with nature and can represent uniqueness and balance. A rounded bottom, soft-sided curves, and a tiny tip at one end characterize the pear form. It has the appearance of a glittering drop of water and represents tears of happiness, but it may also resemble other natural objects such as a leaf or the fruit it was named for. 

• Marquise 

• A marquise cut is distinguished from others by its royal appearance. It has a distinctive shape with pointed ends and curved sides. When positioned vertically, its slim and long design gives the desired appearance of larger size while elongating the finger. However, unless correctly fixed, sharp edges increase the chance of fracture and chipping. If the stone isn't cut the right way, a "bowtie" impression of black space might appear in the middle of a marquise cut gem. 

• Heart 

• Contemporary heart cut diamonds are special emblems for hopeless romantics. Hearts are ubiquitous and timeless symbols of love but they’re not so commonly used as diamond cuts. The heart diamond has a sophisticated cut that exudes superb brilliance as well as a perfect silhouette and symmetry. Last but not least, its cost is not as high as the more common round brilliants, even if they are in the same size.

• Asscher 

• The Asscher cut is an octagonal form with 58 big step facets named after the jeweler who developed the pattern in 1902. It has a symmetrical geometric design, which was also popular during the Art Deco period. As a result, it is full of brilliance and glitter. Additionally, it is not prone to breaking because it doesn't have sharp edges. This cut, however, requires a high-quality diamond with plenty of clarity, because it tends to reveal flaws more easily. 

Final Thoughts 

If diamonds last forever, then they’re truly the most fitting signifiers of eternal love. Finding the best diamond cut is a matter of finding the one that represents your love, dreams, and identity. Ultimately, any diamond shape you decide to get is perfect as long as it stands for you and your partner’s love.