Types of Diamond Cuts and Shapes - Guide by KRK Jewels

What’s the Difference Between Diamond Cut and Shape?

Before we explore the styles, let’s clear up a common confusion:

• Diamond Shape refers to the visual outline or form, like round, oval, or pear.

• Diamond Cut refers to the precision, proportions, symmetry, and polish that determine how brilliantly the diamond sparkles.

A beautifully shaped diamond won't shine if it's poorly cut. Similarly, a masterfully cut diamond needs a shape that suits your style.

1. Round Brilliant Cut

• Shape: Perfectly circular.

• Facets: 58 (including the culet).

• Style: Timeless, classic, and maximum brilliance.

• Why Choose It: The most researched and optimized shape for sparkle. Ideal for solitaires and traditional proposals.

2. Princess Cut

• Shape: Square or rectangular with pointed corners.
• Facets: 76 (typically).
• Style: Modern, bold, youthful.
• Why Choose It: A brilliant cut with sharp geometry. Offers a clean, symmetrical look in contemporary settings.

3. Oval Cut

• Shape: Elongated circle.
• Facets: 56 to 58.
• Style: Romantic, elongating, elegant.
• Why Choose It: Creates the illusion of longer fingers. A brilliant alternative to the classic round cut.

4. Cushion Cut

• Shape: Square or rectangular with rounded corners.
• Facets: 58 to 64.
• Style: Vintage charm with modern brilliance.
• Why Choose It: Soft and romantic, this shape has been adored since the 19th century. Ideal for antique-inspired designs.

5. Emerald Cut

• Shape: Rectangular with step facets and trimmed corners.
• Facets: 57.
• Style: Sophisticated, clean, understated sparkle.
• Why Choose It: Highlights clarity and luster over fire. Preferred by those who appreciate minimalist, elegant designs.

6. Radiant Cut

• Shape: Square or rectangular with cropped corners.
• Facets: 70.
• Style: Bold, high sparkle, and versatile.
• Why Choose It: Combines the brilliance of round with the structure of emerald. Ideal for modern glam.

7. Pear Cut

• Shape: Teardrop — rounded on one side, pointed on the other.
• Facets: 58.
• Style: Unique, graceful, and feminine.
• Why Choose It: Excellent finger coverage and sparkle. Looks stunning in both solitaire and halo settings.

8. Marquise Cut

• Shape: Long and pointed at both ends.
• Facets: 56.
• Style: Regal, vintage-inspired.
• Why Choose It: Makes fingers appear longer and diamonds look larger per carat. Great for those who love dramatic flair.

9. Asscher Cut

• Shape: Square with layered step facets.
• Facets: 58.
• Style: Art Deco, symmetrical, bold.
• Why Choose It: Deep clarity and retro glamour. Best for those drawn to vintage or architectural aesthetics.

10. Heart Cut

• Shape: Heart-shaped.
• Facets: 56 to 58.
• Style: Romantic, symbolic.
• Why Choose It: Reserved for the most emotional expressions of love. Requires excellent cutting for symmetry.

Understanding Diamond Cut Grades

A diamond’s cut grade has the biggest impact on its brilliance. It measures how well the diamond interacts with light:

Choosing the Right Shape for You

Your diamond shape should reflect your personal style, lifestyle, and hand profile.

Pro Tip: Shape Affects Price

Some shapes (like round) waste more rough diamond during cutting, which makes them more expensive. Others, like oval or marquise, use rough more efficiently, offering larger face-up size per carat and often more value.

Conclusion

Every shape tells a story — and every cut brings it to life.

At KRK Jewels, we offer a wide variety of expertly cut diamonds in all popular shapes, whether you’re choosing a classic solitaire or a bespoke creation. Our team is here to help you find the perfect balance between sparkle, symbolism, and sophistication.

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