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:
| Cut Grade | Light Performance | Look |
|---|---|---|
| Excellent | Maximum sparkle | Bright and lively |
| Very Good | Very high brilliance | Slightly less sparkle |
| Good | Balanced light return | Decent brilliance |
| Fair | Less brilliance | Duller appearance |
| Poor | Poor light performance | Dull and lifeless |
Choosing the Right Shape for You
Your diamond shape should reflect your personal style, lifestyle, and hand profile.
| Shape | Best For |
|---|---|
| Round | Traditional and timeless personalities |
| Oval / Marquise | Slimming effect for short fingers |
| Emerald / Asscher | Lovers of symmetry and clarity |
| Pear | Bold, creative personalities |
| Cushion / Princess | Romantic or modern fashion-forward styles |
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.
