When choosing a diamond ring, one of the things you should consider is the gem’s shape. The shape would refer to the external form, its outline, and contours. We admire shape and symmetry as specific shapes would evoke specific emotions, even holding meaning to our culture and connect us with nature. There are studies that suggest how shapes hold meaning outside the surface, influencing our minds and the way we react, with our preferences matching our personalities.
Furthermore, shape and symmetry are connected with beauty. Since there is no ‘one shape fits all’ for gems and engagement rings, there are certain gem shapes that would be preferred over another. So, what are the different kinds of diamond shapes to look into?
Check out these nine popular diamond shapes perfect for engagement rings!
Popular Diamond Shapes For Engagement Rings
Shaping diamonds is an amazing art, with experts working to balance a gem’s beauty without losing much of its roughness. The final shape would be planned carefully for it to bring out the gemstone’s fullest potential. Here are some of the more popular shapes you can consider for your engagement rings with real diamonds:
- Round Cut
This is one of the most popular diamond shapes, as it would maximize the fire of the diamond when pointed at the right reflection of light. With that amazing sparkle, you can see why it would be the reigning stone!
You will want round and brilliant-cut diamonds as solitaires, 2-3 stone settings, or even when set geometrically for the retro appearance.
This kind of shape is great for those who adore the classics. If you want to go towards an alternative route, then you might want another shape appearing on fewer fingers.
- Princess Cut
If you want to feel like an absolute princess, then you will want a princess cut. This is another very popular diamond shape for engagement rings, donning a versatile face-up shape with either square or rectangle sides.
You can opt for a modern and geometrical appearance while it continues to feature brilliance. Plus, they are less expensive compared to round-cut diamonds. Just make sure that you select a more protective setting since this shape is known to chip at its corners or even fall out.
- Cushion Cut
The cushion engagement ring has an exquisite cut, featuring a square cut with rounded corners. When you combine it with 58 larger facets, you will increase your sone’s brilliance further.
It’s been around since the 1700s, being extremely popular in the 1800s when most gemstones donned the cushion cut shape. Back then, it was known as mine cuts.
- Emerald Cut
The emerald cut is popular among those who want to achieve an Art Deco aesthetic. It has a bit of an understated sparkle known as the ‘hall of mirrors’ effect, featuring angular lines and a long silhouette to truly capture the gem’s clarity as it catches the light.
When you set this vertically, the shape will help one’s fingers look slender and longer. That said since it has fewer facets to reduce the look of blemishes, you need to concentrate on getting one with amazing clarity and color. Furthermore, take note it isn’t very flashy, so this may not be best for those who want huge sparklers.
- Marquise Cut
This is also known as the Navette cut, popular because of the regal feel it has. Its distinctive feature is its curved sides and pointed ends, which you can describe as an elegant football! The long and narrow shape gives it an illusion of a bigger size while elongating the fingers if you set it vertically.
- Oval Cut
This is the elongated version of round-cut diamonds. You can give it as many facets as compared to a round-cut stone for it to sparkle as much as round-cuts. It is an elegant choice and something out of the ordinary, with its oblong shape being able to lengthen fingers.
- Radiant Cut
Radiant cuts were invented by Henry Grossbard back in 1977, being able to catch light in big ways. It would mimic emerald-cut stones but have unique and deep-cut facets for it to truly sparkle.
- Pear Cut
The pear-cut is popularly known as the teardrop, a hybrid of different styles that have dated back as early as the 15th Century. It is the best choice for those who want something vintage and would seem bigger when seen from the top view, having a pointed tip though remember that they are prone to chipping!
- Heart Cut
This is the symbol of love and a popular choice, though not traditionally used for engagement ring styles. That said, it is best for hopeless romantics and for those who want a more feminine shape.
Wrapping It Up
There are so many different types of engagement rings to choose from, it is hard to narrow it down to just one! Make sure you narrow it down based on your personal preferences and what works best for you and the sparkle you want to achieve. Once you’ve got that covered, you can start moving on to other aspects of your ring, from the gem down to the engraving!
I hope that you found insight into what diamond shapes to consider for you and your partner. Look into any of these diamond shapes to see which is best for you now!
Do you have any questions or want to share your insights on any of these diamond shapes? Share them in the comments section below, your thoughts are much appreciated!
