10 SHAPES TO COMPARE BEFORE BUYING

Congratulations! You’re getting engaged! It’s a great time. But it can also be stressful. How do you choose the right engagement ring? Which diamond shape is best? How do you make sure it’s worth the money? There are so many questions. Luckily, there are some tips and tricks to make sure you choose the perfect diamond shape for your taste and finger. Let’s find out.

Round Diamond Shape

• Maximum shine in all shapes
• Timeless and classic
• But not “unique”

Round Brilliant Diamonds are exactly what they sound like; diamonds with circular contours. Round Brilliant Diamonds have been the most popular shape in the world since their creation. They are classic and timeless. They are also the brightest! In fact, gem cutters and mathematicians have spent decades developing the Round Brilliant into the most sparkling diamond on the market. This is because of all the diamond shapes, the Round Brilliant has the most perfectly aligned facets. In other words, when light enters a perfectly proportioned Round Brilliant, it bounces around the inside of the gem and then almost all of it hits you, sparkling!

1.12 ct Round Cut

Best For Whom

Anyone who wants maximum diamond sparkle.

Round Diamond shapes are great for literally everyone. Almost all couples will love Round cut diamonds because of their maximum sparkle. Also, because the shape is so popular, almost all settings will accept the Round Diamond. So, even if a couple wants a more angular or artistic setting, a Round Diamond will probably work and look beautiful.

Who Should Not Choose a Round Cut?

Since Round Brilliant Diamonds are so popular, they may not be the best choice for couples looking for something truly “unique.” So if your main goal with your engagement ring is to be different, the Round Brilliant Diamond shape is probably not what you want. Luckily, there are at least 9 other Brilliant Diamond shapes out there!

What to Look for in a Great Round Cut?

• Perfectly cut white, eye-clean stones
• Maximize your measurements to get the most bang for your buck!

Couples who choose the Round Brilliant shape should look for Excellent cut, “eye clean” clarity (usually SI1+) and “white” color (usually H+). Also be sure to check the dimensions of your stone to make sure it is maximized within the carat weight. In other words, you want the biggest looking stone for your money!

Before You Buy: Compare These Diamond Shapes

Couples who like Rounds should also look at Ovals and Cushion cuts before deciding on a diamond shape. Both Oval and Cushion diamond shapes have beautiful sparkling soft curves just like Rounds. However, Cushions and Ovals are generally less expensive than similar quality Rounds. Ovals tend to look larger.

Round vs Oval vs Cushion Diamond Shapes

Princess Diamond Shape

• Square Diamond with lots of sparkle
• Second most popular shape

Princess cut diamonds are square stones with flat edges and 90 degree corners. So these are very modern Diamond shapes. They are "brilliant" cut stones, meaning they have triangular and kite shaped facets that produce a lot of sparkle. The modern Princess cut was designed in the 1980's and is one of the newest Diamond shapes to be developed. Of the "square" Diamond shapes on the market, Princess Cuts use the roughest diamond rough. As a result, Princess cuts are generally less expensive than other square shapes.

1.08ct Princess Diamond Ring

Best For Whom

Couples who want a more modern look.

Because of their flat edges and sharp corners, Princess cut diamond shapes are best for couples looking for a lot of sparkle, but have a more modern look than the Round brilliant. Due to the popularity of the Princess cut, couples looking to be instantly recognized by their friends and family will also appreciate the appeal of the Princess cut.

Who Shouldn't Get a Princess?

Princess cut diamonds are the second most sought after diamond shape today. So couples looking for something “unique” may want to look at less common square shapes like the Radiant or Asscher. Couples who value classic appeal may also want to consider something with a more established history. Since the Princess cut is relatively new, there haven’t been many famous Princess cuts or well-known Princesses to enhance its timeless appeal. So if this is a concern for you, you may want to consider a Radiant diamond with a high status history.

What to Look for in a Great Princess?

• Contrast (light and dark glow)
• Maximum measurements in height and width

One of the most important things when choosing a beautiful Princess is to ensure that the contrast of the stone is even. A large Princess will be vibrant when swung back and forth, showing light and dark highlights. Another thing to consider is the color. Princess cuts can show color more easily than Round cuts, so look closely at the color. Finally, as with most Diamond shapes, take your measurements to the max! Carat weight is not how a stone is measured, but how heavy it is. So look for measurements that are wide and long within the ideal parameters!

Princess cut diamond buying guide

Radiant and Asscher

Princess lovers should also check out Radiants and Asschers. Both Princess and Radiant Diamond shapes have modern, flat edges and a beautiful sparkle. Brilliant cuts have a longer history and are more high-end engagement rings than Princess cuts. Asscher cuts are square stones with a unique mirror-like sparkle, and are quite rare.

Princess vs Radiant vs Asscher Diamonds

Cushion Diamond Shape

• A square or rectangular diamond with rounded corners
• Vintage charm

Cushion cut diamonds are square or rectangular Diamonds with soft, rounded corners like a pillow! Cushions were the first "brilliant" Diamond shape to come directly from the mines. This traditional finish is still sought after today. Additionally, newer surface patterns have been developed that exhibit a "crushed ice" type of shine. As a result, all Cushions are different.

1.0 ct Cushion Cut

Best For Whom

Many couples who choose Cushion Cuts (Cushion Cut) because of their vintage heritage also love other antiques. A brilliant cut gem with soft lines, Cushion Cuts (Cushion Cut) also appeal to couples looking for a “different” look while still maintaining a traditional vibe. Finally, the big flashy sparkle of the Cushion Diamond shape often appeals to couples looking for something a little more whimsical.

Who Should Not Buy a Cushion?

Cushion diamond shapes are notorious for being cut quite deep. Not all, but many. So if size is your number one priority, Cushion may not be the best shape for you as you will have fewer options. Couples who want a big, long look should also consider Oval.

What to look for in a great Cushion

• Large measurements
• Traditional sparkle or Crushed Ice Sparkle

Because cushion cuts are so versatile, couples choosing cushions should first decide whether they like the vintage grand sparkle or the crushed ice brilliance. Also, since cushions are often deeply cut, couples should make sure to maximize their measurements in the carat range. In other words, make sure your diamond isn’t carrying all its weight on the bottom where you can’t see it!

Cushion cut diamond buying guide

Before You Buy: Compare These Diamond Shapes Also

Couples who love Cushion Diamond shapes should also check out Radiants and Ovals. Both Ovals and Radiants are perfectly cut and have a unique look, just like Cushions. Ovals have softer shapes than Cushions, while Radiants are more modern. Both give a unique, elongated look.

Elongated Cushion - Oval - Radiant

Oval Cut Diamond

• Soft shape that looks larger than round
• Appealing to those looking for a “unique” look

Oval cut diamonds are cut very similarly to Rounds, with an elongated shape. First designed in 1957 by Lazare Kaplan, creator of the Ideal Diamond, Ovals are a "brilliant" cut. This means they produce a ton of sparkle! Because of their long and thin shape, Ovals often appear larger than Rounds of the same carat weight.

2.2 ct Oval Diamond Solitaire

Best For Whom

Because of its familiar shape and traditional lines, Oval diamond shapes are a great choice for couples who don't want something super traditional but still want something classic.

Who Should Not Buy Oval?

Oval shaped diamonds are a classic, traditional choice. In other words, couples looking for a more edgy, modern look won’t find it in Ovals. Instead, couples should look for sharp-edged Diamond shapes like Princess, Radiant, and Emerald.

What to Look for in the Grand Oval?

• Minimal dark “bow tie” shades
• Soft, pleasant shape

Oval cuts can have a dark “bow tie” shadow in the center due to their elongated shape, so couples should look for jewelry without a bow tie. Ovals can also show more color on the top and bottom than other shapes, so look for consistent colors too! Finally, look for a nice outline. The oval shape is why you love the stone; make it beautiful!

Be sure to check out our oval diamond buying guide to learn about length-to-width ratio and how to choose a flattering oval shape.

Before You Buy: Also Compare the Diamond Cut Shapes Below

Couples who love ovals should also check out Marquise and elongated Cushions. Like Ovals, Marquise stones are elegant, slender shapes that elongate the finger. And Marquise cut diamonds appear larger than Ovals of the same carat weight! Elongated Cushions are rectangular stones with soft corners, so this diamond shape will also appeal to couples looking for a slimmer look. Cushions and Marquises sparkle a little differently than Ovals, so comparing these stones side by side is a great way to confirm that you really want an Oval!

Oval vs Elongated Cushion vs Marquise Diamonds

Emerald Diamond Shape

• Long, elegant rectangular Diamond with mirror-like surfaces
• Requires high color and clarity

Emerald cut diamonds are long, rectangular diamonds with facets that create a “hall of mirrors” effect. This is the first of the two “step” cut diamonds we will discuss. Step cuts are cut very differently than “brilliant” cut diamonds. Instead of the traditional “sparkle” you see in most diamonds, Emeralds cut sparkle. They are designed to showcase color and high clarity. In other words, their sparkle does not mask inclusions or slight tints like other diamonds. This makes them a popular choice if you are looking for a high-end solitaire.

2.5 ct Emerald Cut Solitaire

Best For Whom

With their soft mirror-like sparkle, Emerald cuts are a great choice for couples who want something more delicate. The elegant, old-world appeal of the Emerald cut also makes it a great choice for those who want their engagement ring to exude high-end quality. Because of their color and clarity requirements, the best Emerald couples are those who are comfortable spending a little more on their center stone.

Who Should Not Buy Emeralds?

The biggest takeaway from emeralds is that they don’t “sparkle.” So if your goal is maximum sparkle, the Emerald cut is not for you. Couples looking for a rectangular, sparkling stone should check out the Radiants. Also, couples looking for value for money won’t find it in the Emerald, due to the high color and clarity required.

What to Look for in a Large Emerald?

• No “black box” reflection
• High definition (VS1+)

Emerald cuts can show a dark "black box" in the center due to the specular finish. So when you shake an Emerald cut back and forth, look for a vertical play of dark and light without a boxy horizontal dark area. Always remember to pay close attention to clarity as Emeralds show inclusions very easily. Most Emerald cuts need to be at least VS1 (and often VVS2+) to ensure clarity to the eye.

For more tips and tricks on choosing a great Emerald cut!

Before You Buy: Compare the Following Diamond Shapes Also

• For sparkle: Sparkly
• For old-world charm at a better price: Cushion
• Similar style: Asscher

Couples who love the rectangular look of Emeralds but want more sparkle should check out the Radiant cut. Radiants are the “brilliant” diamonds in the shape of an Emerald! For those who love the striking look of an Emerald but also need a more affordable stone, check out an elongated Cushion Cut. Elongated Cushions, especially the more traditionally shaped ones, give off a soft sparkle similar to an Emerald. However, since Cushion Cuts are brilliant cuts, couples can often get away with lower color and clarity, making them a more affordable choice than Emeralds. Finally, Emerald lovers will also love the lesser-known Asscher cut. Asschers are square emerald cuts!

Brilliant Diamond Shapes

• Long, rectangular jewel with a wonderful sparkle… RADIANT cut

Radiant cut diamonds are elongated, rectangular diamonds with bright, sparkling facets. First faceted in the 1970s, Radiant cuts are the well-kept secret of rectangular diamonds. Not often shown in brick and mortar jewelers, Radiants have been chosen and worn by celebrities for decades. Radiants come in a variety of facet patterns. However, all have wide, cropped corners like the Emerald cut.

1.30ct and 2.00ct Radiant Solitaires

Best For Whom

Radiants are a great choice for couples looking for something a little more edgy than a traditional round, while also wanting their stones to have a great sparkle and have a built-in “confidence.” Since Radiants have a history as a high-end choice, couples can feel confident choosing Radiants. Because of their rarity, Radiants are a great choice for those looking for something unique. Finally, Radiants are a great rectangular choice because they don’t need super high color and clarity to look amazing.

Who Should Not Get Radiant?

The shape of the Radiant cut is quite sharp. It has hard lines and sharp corners. So couples looking for a soft look will not find it in the Radiant. Also, due to its rarity, many people have never heard of the Radiant cut. As a result, couples looking for instant recognition will not get it in the Radiant and may want to look at the Princess cut.

What to Look for in a Large Radiant?

• White color
• Traditional coating or "crushed ice" coating

The sparkly finish can show a more traditional surface pattern or a “crushed ice” type of appearance. So when looking for a Radiant, first decide which of these looks you prefer. Crushed ice Radiants can also show color much more easily than other shapes. So pay attention to the color on the top and bottom of the jewelry where this “ice” is located. You want a consistent, white color. For more tips on choosing the perfect Radiant, check out our article.

Radiant cut buying guide .

Before You Buy: Also Compare Diamond Shapes Below

Couples who like the rectangular look of the Radiant should also look at long Princess cuts and Emerald cuts. Elongated Princess cut stones will give a similar look and will be less expensive than a similar Radiant. To make sure you get the look you want, couples should also look at Emerald cuts, which have the same lines but a very different “sparkle.” Emerald cuts have a more mirror-like shine compared to the sparkle of the Radiant cut. Finally, couples who like the “crushed ice” look of the Radiant should also consider a long Cushion, as some Cushions also exhibit this effect.

Traditional Radiant vs Emerald vs Extended Princess vs Ice Crush Radiant

Pear Cut Diamond Shape

• Exactly what you think it is! A Drop-shaped Diamond with wonderful sparkle

What is it?

Teardrop shaped diamonds resemble raindrops (or hot air balloons!). They can be full, thin or traditionally proportioned depending on the rough shape and the cutter’s preference. They can be worn with the tips up or down, depending on the wearer’s preference. The teardrop shape was first designed in the 1400s! So, as the name suggests, it has quite a history. Teardrop shapes sparkle beautifully thanks to their shiny surfaces.

1.20 ct Drop Diamond

Best For Whom

Teardrop shapes are unique because they are asymmetrical. The top is a sharp point while the bottom is a graceful curve. So those looking for a unique or bold look will love this one! This gives the wearer the option to change the look of the ring by simply turning it upside down. They can also be placed sideways or diagonally for a truly artistic statement.

Who Should Not Take Drops?

Pear shaped diamonds are beautiful and unique. However, due to their asymmetry, Pear shaped diamonds are not traditional. As a result, this uniqueness makes them not the right choice for everyone. So if you are looking for a classic, traditional engagement ring, the Pear shaped ring may not be for you. Also, if part of your diamond shape decision is the “investment quality” of the stone, you may be better off opting for a more traditional shape like Round, Cushion, or Radiant.

What to Look for in a Large Drop?

• Elegant shape
• Even dyeing

Pear cuts can be thin, traditionally proportioned, or more plump. I personally love a nice, full Pear. The most important thing is to make sure the shape is graceful. So the curves should be gentle, with no sharp areas. And that point needs to be pointed; otherwise you’ll have eggs! Finally, couples should always look for even color, as color can pool at the tip of the Pear. For more tips on how to choose a beautiful Pear, check out our article.

Teardrop buying guide .

Before You Buy: Also Compare Diamond Shapes Below

Couples who love teardrop shapes may also love the Heart shape. Similar in asymmetry and unique nature, Heart cut diamonds are a romantic comparison shape. Couples looking at teardrops should also compare them to oval shaped diamonds... Ovals are long and graceful shapes like teardrops, but even more brilliant.

Drop vs Heart vs Oval Diamonds

Heart Diamond Shape

• A Heart-shaped stone with great sparkle

Heart shaped diamonds are exactly what you’ve been dreaming of; a heart shaped diamond! These are brilliant cut stones, which means they really sparkle. Hearts are the most romantic diamond shape and also one of the rarest. They can be full like a teardrop, skinny or traditionally proportioned. Heart shaped diamonds have been around since the 1500s and have a royal history.

Heart Shaped Diamond

Best For Whom

Heart shaped diamonds are whimsical and unique. They are perfect for romantics who love all things love. The couples we have met who love the heart cut also love romantic comedies, all things Disney, and fairy tales!

Who Should Not Get Heart

Some couples love Hearts, while others don’t. This shape is very personal. So if you’re looking for something with universal appeal, a Heart-shaped diamond probably isn’t your best bet. That also means if “investment quality” is a major concern when it comes to ring shopping, you should consider Round, Cushion, or Radiant instead.

What to Look for in a Big Heart?

• Soft, pleasant shape
• Even coloration

Couples who choose the Heart diamond shape do so for the shape to be great, so the perfect shape is the top priority! The soft “lobes” (the curves of the Heart) and the pointed tip are very important. Hearts can be thin, traditionally proportioned, or more plump. I tend to advise against Thin Hearts because I don’t think they are as attractive. Finally, couples should always look for even color, as color can cluster at the Heart point. For more tips on how to choose a beautiful Heart, check out our article.

Heart shaped buying guide .

Before You Buy: Also Compare Diamond Shapes Below

It’s unlikely that couples who love hearts will want another shape. However, for the sake of argument, I suggest people compare them just in case! The best shapes to compare to hearts are Pears and Marquises. Chubby Pears have a similar appeal to Hearts because they are asymmetrical and unique. I also like to show off a nice, fat Marquise. The Chubby Marquise Diamond also has a quirky appeal (the Marquise will look bigger!).

Heart vs Chubby Drop vs Chubby Marquise Diamonds

Marquise Diamond Shape

• An almond-shaped gem with dots on top and bottom

Marquise cut diamonds are almond shaped stones with dots on the top and bottom. They are said to be shaped like a kiss! Designed in the 1700s, Marquises are brilliant cut stones that appear larger than other diamond shapes. Popular in the 1970s and 1980s, Marquises are gaining popularity today due to their elegant length and large size. Like the pear, Marquises can be thin, traditionally proportioned or full. Traditionally, they are worn vertically to elongate the finger, while newer designers place them horizontally.

0.70ct Marquise Diamond

Best For Whom

Marquise is a rare and unexpected choice today. Due to the Marquise craze of 40 years ago, some couples dismiss Marquise as a modern option. So couples who like to push the boundaries might love the idea of ​​breaking expectations with a gorgeous, modern Marquise ring. Another great reason to choose Marquise is its incredible ability to appear significantly larger than other shapes. So, for those looking for a statement piece? You should check out a Marquise.

Who Shouldn't Buy a Marquise

The popularity of the Marquise in the 1970s and 1980s makes some people prejudiced against them. Maybe their mother had a Marquise and they wanted something different. So couples who have a preconceived notion that they don't like the shape probably won't give it up. But I'll give it a shot. Imagine Catherine Zeta-Jones', Ashlee Simpson's, and Portia de Rossi's engagement rings all being beautiful Marquises!

What to Look for in a Grand Marquise?

• Nice shape
• Consistent color

Couples who choose the Marquise diamond shape often do so because of its elegant shape and size. That’s why it’s so important to choose a stone with a nice outline. Tips include making sure your stone’s curves are soft, not weirdly flat or boxy, and that your points are really sharp. Marquises can also carry extra color at their points, so always look for even color. For more tips on Marquises, check out our article .

Marquise cut buying guide .

Before You Buy: Also Compare Diamond Shapes Below

Couples who love the Marquise will probably also enjoy the appeal of the Oval and the Drop. The rounded bottom and pointed top of the Drop are reminiscent of the Marquise’s outline but a bit sharper. The Oval gives the Marquise its elegance but with more shine.

Marquise vs. Drop vs. Oval Diamonds

Asscher Diamond Shape

• Square shaped Diamond with mirror-like surfaces
• Requires high color and clarity

Asscher cut diamonds are square stones with rectangular facets that have been cut to create a “hall of mirrors” effect. Born from emerald cuts, Asschers are “step” cut diamonds that sparkle rather than “sparkle.” Asschers cut flashes between light and dark when you shake them side by side. Like its sister cut, Emerald, Asschers exhibit high color and clarity. Therefore, they do not hide facets, inclusions, or color tone. Instead, they magnify them. For this reason, couples who like something high-end often love Asscher cut stones.

Asscher cut diamond ring

Best For Whom

With their mirrored hall effect, couples love Asschers for their understated elegance and Art Deco appeal. Since they don’t sparkle like other gems, they’re a good choice for the more casual couple, as well as for couples who want to show off a more casual vibe. Because Asschers require top-notch color and clarity, the best Asscher couples are those who aren’t afraid to spend a little more on their center stone.

Who Should Not Take Asscher?

Again, Asscher cut diamonds are sparkling, not sparkling like other diamonds. So if your goal is maximum sparkle, Asscher is not for you. Couples looking for a square, sparkling stone should check out Radiants and Princesses. Couples looking for a great deal probably won’t find it at Asscher, because of their high color and clarity requirements.

What to look for in a great Asscher?

• No “black box” reflection
• Top-level (VS1+) clarity

Asscher cuts can show a dark "black box" in the center due to their mirror-like surface. So when looking at an Asscher, look for a well-proportioned shine without a distracting black box. Another thing to look for is clarity, as Asschers show inclusions very easily. Most Asscher cuts need to be at least VS1 (and often VVS2+) to provide clean clarity to the eye.

For more tips and tricks on choosing a great Asscher cut!

Before You Buy: Also Compare Diamond Shapes Below

Couples who love the square look of Asscher but want more bling should check out the Princess cut. Princess cuts are square-shaped “brilliant” diamonds! For those who love the old-world charm of Asscher but need a better value, the Cushion may be the ticket. Vintage and sparkling square Cushions are often a better value than Asschers. Finally, those who love Asschers will also love its sister cut, the Emerald. In fact, you can find a better value for money on a square Emerald cut than on a full square Asscher cut!

Asscher vs Princess vs Cushion Diamonds