How to Choose from Different Diamond Shapes

Different Diamond Shapes: Buying a diamond is exciting. It can also get overwhelming. Between the four C’s, pricing, and all the other factors, you may feel in over your head. Thankfully, you can make the process easier by understanding some terms before you get started. Take the different diamond shapes, for example. You can choose from many options. If you understand the shapes, your shopping process can become easier.

Different Diamond Shapes

Diamonds come in many shapes. Each shape has unique features. A lot of people have strong opinions on which shape is the best. At the end of the day, it all comes down to personal preference. Here are the most common diamond shapes.

• Round. When you picture a diamond, you probably picture a round-shaped diamond. Rounded at the top, this shape is the standard in the United States
• Oval. The oval shape looks similar to the round shape, but it’s elongated.
• Octagon. Octagon-shaped diamonds also look similar to round ones. However, the eight edges highlight the diamond’s color.
• Emerald. Emerald-cut diamonds have a long, rectangular shape.
• Baguette. The baguette cut looks much like the emerald cut, but with fewer facets. This cut works well for those who want to make the most of the diamond’s surface area.
• Pear. The pear shape is wide at the bottom and tapered at the top. It can give rings a unique look.
• Heart. Heart-shaped diamonds are exactly what they sound like. The heart shape works well for larger diamonds.
• Princess. This square diamond has four sharp corners.
• Asscher. The Asscher cut is a smaller, square version of the emerald cut.
• Marquise. This cut resembles a thin and tapered oval.
• Radiant. Like the princess cut, the radiant cut is square. However, this version softens the edges.
• Cushion. This square-shaped diamond also has rounded edges. It has softer, less noticeable facets.
• Trilliant. The trilliant (or trillion) shape is a triangle with rounded edges.

Choosing Your Diamond

Which shape will work best for you or your recipient? There’s no wrong answer. The choice is up to you. However, here are some factors you can keep in mind.

Price Point

Some diamond shapes cost more than others. Round cuts are more expensive than cuts with sharper edges. Surprisingly, fancier cuts often have lower price tags than simpler cuts.

Aesthetic

Here’s a simple question: what shape do you like best? Trust your instincts or the wearer’s instincts. Do you prefer sharp edges and angles, or would something softer work best?

Think about the sparkle, too. Some shapes sparkle more than others. For a lot of sparkle, the round cut makes a good choice. For a modest wearer who doesn’t want to draw attention, the cushion shape can work well.

Carats

Some cuts work best for larger-carat diamonds. Others work best for smaller options. Keep the size of your diamond in mind when choosing a shape.

Diamond Cuts

Next, consider diamond cuts. A lot of people assume that cut and shape are the same things. However, the shape is just one part of a diamond’s cut. “Cut” refers to the overall proportions and symmetry of the diamond. The better the cut, the more expensive the diamond.

Diamond Care

Finally, think about how much care you want to put into your diamond. Some shapes require more care than others. Sharp corners, for instance, can chip. If you choose a diamond with corners, you should put extra effort into protecting it.

Ask an Expert

Still, overwhelmed about the different diamond shapes and diamond cuts? You can always ask an expert. Jewelry experts spend years learning about diamonds. They know all about shapes, cuts, and all the other things that make a diamond unique. An expert can help you decide what will work best for your or your recipient.

Whatever shape you choose, your diamond can last for a lifetime.