When it comes to choosing the perfect diamond, the shape plays a significant role in defining its beauty and character. Each diamond shape has its own unique pros and cons, making the decision-making process both exciting and challenging. In this guide, we’ll explore the various diamond shapes, highlighting their advantages and drawbacks to help you make an informed decision.
Table of Contents
Round Diamonds
Pros:
- Classic Appeal and Timeless Elegance: Round diamonds are the epitome of sophistication, boasting a classic appeal that never goes out of style.
- Excellent Brilliance and Sparkle: Their symmetrical shape maximizes light reflection, resulting in unparalleled brilliance and sparkle.
Cons:
- Higher Price Due to Popularity: The popularity of round diamonds often translates to higher prices compared to other shapes.
- Less Unique Compared to Other Shapes: While round diamonds are undeniably stunning, diamonds shapes pros and cons, they are also more common, making them less unique in comparison to fancy shapes.
Princess Cut Diamonds
Pros:
- Modern and Stylish Appearance: Princess cut diamonds exude modernity and style, with their sharp corners and clean lines.
- Good Sparkle and Brilliance: Despite their angular shape, princess cut diamonds offer excellent sparkle and brilliance.
Cons:
- Vulnerable to Chipping at Corners: The sharp corners of princess cut diamonds are prone to chipping if not properly protected.
- Requires Careful Setting to Protect Edges: Setting a princess cut diamond requires precision to safeguard its delicate corners from damage.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
Pros:
- Sleek and Sophisticated Look: Emerald cut diamonds are renowned for their sleek and sophisticated appearance, perfect for those seeking understated elegance.
- Elegant Step Cuts for a Unique Appeal: The step cuts of emerald diamonds create a mesmerizing play of light, adding to their allure.
Cons:
- Less Brilliance Compared to Brilliant Cuts: While emerald cut diamonds possess exceptional clarity, they may lack the fiery brilliance of brilliant cuts.
- Flaws and Inclusions May be More Visible: Due to their large, lab grown diamonds, open facets, flaws and inclusions may be more apparent in emerald cut diamonds.
Asscher Cut Diamonds
Pros:
- Similar to Emerald Cut but with More Sparkle: Asscher cut diamonds combine the elegance of emerald cuts with enhanced brilliance, thanks to their smaller step facets.
- Vintage Charm and Allure: With their Art Deco origins, Asscher cut diamonds exude vintage charm and timeless allure.
Cons:
- Limited Availability Compared to Other Shapes: Asscher cut diamonds are less common than round or princess cuts, making them slightly harder to find.
- Inclusions May be More Noticeable Due to Step Cuts: The large step facets of Asscher cut diamonds may accentuate inclusions, requiring careful consideration during selection.
Cushion Cut Diamonds
Pros:
- Soft, Romantic Appearance: Cushion cut diamonds boast a soft, romantic appearance that appeals to those seeking a vintage-inspired look.
- Good Balance of Brilliance and Sparkle: With their blend of large facets and rounded corners, cushion cut diamonds offer a beautiful balance of brilliance and sparkle.
Cons:
- May Appear Smaller Than Other Shapes of the Same Carat Weight: Due to their deep pavilions and large facets, cushion cut diamonds may appear smaller than other shapes of the same carat weight.
- Variability in Proportions Can Affect Overall Look: The proportions of cushion cut diamonds vary widely, impacting their overall appearance and performance.