Size matters, but so does shape. As much as we all love a huge diamond rock set in polished platinum, choosing the right shape for a diamond can greatly affect the diamond’s shine, color, and clarity. Diamonds that have a little less luster can be jazzed up with the right scintillating round or oval cut. If you have a particularly clear diamond with no visible inclusions, that’s a prime target for a step-cut shape in order to show off that natural clarity. Most importantly, playing with diamond shapes is the perfect avenue for curating a collection of creative jewelry and fashion choices. A simple design can become a wearable piece of art when there is the right attention to shape.
Shape vs. Cut
Terminology can be a little confusing when it comes to the diamond world. A lot of the time, diamond buyers, sellers, and designers will refer to the diamond shape and cut interchangeably. If we get really technical, they do have different definitions. The shape of the diamond is going to be the outline that the diamond makes. If you were to draw a 2D version of the face of your diamond, viola, you have determined the shape of your diamond. The cut of the diamond, however, has more to do with the diamond's dimensions, facets, and proportions that determine its shine. Don’t worry too much about it, because colloquially, it’s totally okay to refer to a diamond shape as a diamond cut. We’re taking a deep dive into three common shapes of diamonds: round diamonds, princess-cut diamonds, and marquis-shaped diamonds.
Round Diamonds
Round-cut diamonds are the most popular diamond shape and their multiple facets facilitate a brilliant shine, earning them the alternate name “brilliant round diamonds.” Round diamonds tend to reflect more light, which can vastly improve the diamond color. Even clear, white diamonds have a tint of color to them, that can come off to the naked eye as grayish or slightly yellow. Adding a round shape to a diamond adds more shine, which can mask any color that might occur. Round diamonds are often placed in clusters to maximize their shine, or used as a delicate pavé accent.
A perfect example of a set of brilliant round white diamonds, the Norman Silverman Round Cut Diamond Studs boasts a lovely halo of round diamonds that encases the prominent center round diamond. The light has a million different directions to bounce, and the result is a veritable bouquet of sparkles.
Princess-Cut Diamond
Coming in a close second in the diamond popularity contest is the elegant and opulent princess-cut diamond. The square cut with beveled edges is an iconic engagement ring look and it captures light with over 70 facets, making it sparkle and shine from every angle. While princess-cut diamonds are known for being the archetypal engagement ring diamond, they are always a good choice for a dramatic, bold look that will catch every eye.
For Exhibit A, B, and C for a perfect princess-cut diamond, turn your gaze to the Deutsch Signature Prong Princess Halo Semi Mount. This lovingly crafted princess-cut diamond engagement ring boasts a magnificent princess-cut diamond lined in a delicate round diamond halo and a round diamond pavé around the circumference of the band. It is available in yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and platinum, and comes in 14kt and 18kt options.
Marquis-Cut Diamond
Vintage vixens, listen up! This sweet diamond shape was originally crafted in the 1800’s and was a cornerstone of Victorian jewelry at the time. The marquis-cut diamond can be a clever way to create the illusion of a much larger diamond with its long and pointed shape. If placed on an engagement ring, a marquis-cut diamond can elongate the fingers for an elegant, feminine look.
Speaking of elegant, feminine looks, look no further than the Marquis Drop Earrings by the Deutsch Signature Collection. Hosting 14k of white gold and diamonds, this earring set adds sophistication to every outfit. The marquis diamonds hang gracefully from the airy round diamond chain. Both the diamond chain and the marquis diamonds are suspended by two stately round diamond studs. Dazzling.
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