Diamond Shapes
Round
The round brilliant cut diamond is the most iconic and popular diamond shape in the world—accounting for more than 60% of all diamonds sold globally. Celebrated for its unrivaled brilliance, fire, and timeless elegance, the round shape has become the go-to choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry alike.
The round diamond has a rich history that dates back to the 17th century. However, the modern round brilliant cut was perfected in 1919 by Marcel Tolkowsky, a Belgian mathematician. He calculated the ideal proportions for maximizing light reflection, establishing the foundation of what we now call the “Ideal Cut.”
A standard round brilliant diamond has 58 facets (including the culet).
These facets are strategically arranged to optimize light performance, producing exceptional sparkle and fire.
The precision of the cut greatly affects the diamond's brilliance and value more than in any other shape.
Emerald
The emerald cut diamond is renowned for its sleek, sophisticated beauty. Defined by its rectangular shape and long, clean lines, the emerald cut is a symbol of timeless elegance and quiet luxury. It offers a dramatic “hall of mirrors” effect—an elegant play of light and reflection unique to step-cut diamonds.
Originally developed for emerald gemstones during the Art Deco era, the emerald cut diamond gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. Its clean, geometric shape mirrored the bold architectural style of the time. Today, it remains a favorite among those who appreciate vintage-inspired, refined, and minimalist aesthetics.
Emerald cut diamonds typically feature 57 facets, arranged in a step-cut pattern. Unlike brilliant cuts, step cuts have long, narrow facets that run parallel to the diamond’s edges. The result is a soft, sophisticated glow rather than intense sparkle—ideal for showcasing clarity and quality. The emerald cut diamond is a sophisticated choice for those who appreciate clarity, structure, and grace. With its graceful lines and mirrored beauty, it offers a subtle yet powerful statement of enduring style and individuality.
Oval
The oval shape diamond blends the brilliance of the round brilliant cut with an elongated, elegant silhouette. Its soft curves and dazzling sparkle make it a popular choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry, especially among those looking for a timeless yet slightly unconventional style. Loved for its finger-flattering effect and larger visual appearance, the oval diamond continues to grow in popularity among modern buyers. The modern oval diamond was introduced in the 1960s by master diamond cutter Lazare Kaplan, who adapted the principles of the round brilliant cut into an elongated form. Since then, the oval shape has become a stylish alternative that maintains classic brilliance while offering a more distinctive look.
The oval cut typically features 56 to 58 facets, similar to a round brilliant. It is classified as a brilliant cut, meaning it's designed for maximum sparkle and fire.The shape is symmetrical, with gently rounded ends and an elongated body.
Cushion
The cushion shape diamond, often described as a blend between a rectangle and an oval, features a square or rectangular outline with rounded corners, resembling a soft pillow—hence the name. Known for its romantic and vintage appeal, the cushion cut has become a favorite among those who admire antique elegance fused with modern brilliance. The cushion cut dates back over 200 years, making it one of the oldest diamond shapes still in demand today. Originally called the “old mine cut,” it was the standard in the 18th and 19th centuries. Over time, refinements in faceting led to the modern cushion cut we see today, which combines historic charm with enhanced light performance.
Cushion cuts typically have 58 facets, but modern versions can have up to 64 or more, especially in modified brilliant cuts.
Cushion cuts come in two primary styles: Standard cushion brilliant – traditional, with larger facets for a classic look. Cushion modified brilliant – includes additional facets for more fire and a “crushed ice” appearance.
Princess
The princess shape diamond is a modern favorite known for its sharp angles, square silhouette, and exceptional sparkle. Second only to the round brilliant in popularity, the princess cut offers a perfect blend of contemporary aesthetics and brilliant faceting—making it a top choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry that make a bold yet elegant statement.
Developed in the 1970s, the princess cut is a relatively new diamond shape. It was designed to maximize brilliance in a square form, offering a modern alternative to the traditional round diamond. Originally called the “Profile Cut,” it evolved into what is now known as the princess cut—quickly becoming a go-to choice for those seeking a sleek, edgy, and sparkling diamond.
A typical princess cut diamond has 57 or 76 facets, depending on the cut style. It is a brilliant-style cut, like the round diamond, meaning it is optimized for light reflection and brilliance. The cut features sharp 90° corners and a pyramidal profile when viewed from the side.
Marquise
The marquise shape diamond is an elongated, boat-shaped cut distinguished by its pointed ends and graceful curves. Known for its royal heritage, finger-flattering silhouette, and unique brilliance, the marquise cut delivers a bold, vintage-inspired elegance. With its elongated body, the marquise offers maximum spread and visual size, making it a favorite for those who want their diamond to appear larger and more dramatic.
The marquise diamond dates back to the 18th century, when King Louis XV of France commissioned a diamond cut to mimic the shape of the lips of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. This aristocratic association gave rise to the diamond's name and its enduring appeal as a symbol of romance, sophistication, and luxury.
A standard marquise cut has 56 to 58 facets, similar to the round brilliant cut. It is part of the brilliant-cut family, meaning it is crafted to maximize sparkle. The shape features pointed ends and a curved, elongated center, creating a striking, elegant outline.
Radiant
The radiant shape diamond is a stunning fusion of brilliant sparkle and modern structure, combining the fire of a round brilliant with the clean, angular lines of an emerald or princess cut. Known for its vibrant light performance, beveled corners, and versatility, the radiant cut is ideal for those who seek bold elegance with maximum brilliance.
The radiant cut was invented in 1977 by master diamond cutter Henry Grossbard, who aimed to merge the dazzling brilliance of the round cut with the sleek lines of step-cut diamonds. It was the first square or rectangular cut to feature a full brilliant-cut facet pattern on both the crown and pavilion, resulting in unmatched sparkle in a geometric shape.
Radiant cut diamonds typically have 70 facets, making them one of the most brilliant fancy shapes available. The cut includes beveled corners, enhancing durability and style. They can be square or rectangular, depending on the length-to-width ratio.
Heart
The heart shape diamond is the most romantic and emotionally expressive of all diamond cuts. Universally recognized as a symbol of love, passion, and devotion, this unique shape features a clearly defined cleft and symmetrical lobes, forming a perfectly shaped heart. Whether for an engagement ring, pendant, or anniversary gift, heart diamonds speak directly to the heart.
The heart-shaped diamond dates back to the 16th century and was often exchanged between royalty as a gesture of goodwill and affection. One of the earliest documented examples was a heart diamond sent from Mary Queen of Scots to Queen Elizabeth I. Over the centuries, it has become an enduring emblem of romance and has evolved into a dazzling expression of personal emotion and celebration.
A heart diamond typically features 56 to 58 facets, with a brilliant-style faceting to maximize sparkle. The cleft at the top (between the lobes) and the pointed bottom tip are defining features. Precise symmetry is key—both lobes should be evenly curved and balanced.
Pear
The pear shape diamond, also known as a teardrop diamond, combines the brilliance of the round brilliant cut with the elongated elegance of a marquise. Featuring a rounded end that tapers to a sharp point, this shape is both romantic and eye-catching. Loved for its graceful silhouette and sparkling light performance, the pear cut is a favorite among those who desire a unique yet timeless diamond.
The pear cut diamond was first introduced in 1475 by Flemish polisher Lodewyk van Berquem, a pioneer in faceting techniques. His invention of the polishing wheel allowed for precise facet symmetry, leading to the development of new shapes like the pear. Originally favored in royal courts, pear diamonds continue to symbolize elegance, creativity, and personal style.
Typically features 56 to 58 facets using the brilliant cut style to enhance sparkle and fire. The shape combines a rounded end (the head) and a pointed tip, creating a fluid and tapered outline. Pear cuts may vary in body shape from narrow and elongated to fuller and rounder—style preference plays a key role.
Asscher
The Asscher cut diamond is a striking, vintage-inspired shape known for its geometric elegance and hall-of-mirrors effect. It features a square outline with deep cropped corners, combining the clean lines of the emerald cut with a more square silhouette. With its unique step-cut facets and unmistakable brilliance, the Asscher cut is ideal for those drawn to sophisticated, timeless beauty with a modern edge.
The Asscher cut was developed in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland, founders of the Royal Asscher Diamond Company. It gained fame during the Art Deco era of the 1920s, with its bold symmetry and architectural style fitting perfectly with the design trends of the time. A modified version—known as the Royal Asscher Cut—was later patented, offering even more brilliance with additional facets.
The traditional Asscher cut has 58 facets, arranged in a step-cut fashion similar to emerald cuts. Features a square shape with deeply trimmed corners, often appearing as an octagon when set. The pavilion (bottom) is typically high and deep, creating a mesmerizing "hall-of-mirrors" look with layered reflections.
