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When selecting a diamond for your engagement ring, deciding on its shape is the key to starting the process. Round, princess or marquise, they all have their sparkle. So how does one choose one diamond shape over the other? If you are yet to lean towards one shape in particular, it may be helpful to understand what makes them different and how those differences may impact your purchase decision.
Let's take a look at our comprehensive glossary, listing some, if not all, of the most popular diamond shapes for 2023.
The Asscher-cut diamond has a vintage Art Deco look. Its square step-cut shape is framed by deep, trimmed edges resembling cropped corners. With its parallel facets, it creates a distinct, geometric look. While it generally comes in three styles: royal, classic and modern, the royal cut tends to be wider, allowing for a squarer skew.
If the Asscher-cut diamond shape is your preferred choice, it might be worth noting that it can sometimes show inclusions more clearly because of its distinct facets. So to ensure its brilliance, pay particular attention to the clarity, cut and grade rather than carat size and colour when choosing your Asscher diamond.
As the name suggests, the baguette diamond shape is formed by a thin elongated rectangle and is generally available in either a straight or tapered style. The straight baguette diamond shape is perfectly rectangular, while the tapered diamond shape is surrounded by edges that angle inwards. They are usually small and often selected as side stones for an engagement ring setting.
The cushion-cut diamond shape can be either square or rectangular, with soft rounded corners that offer a brilliant amount of sparkle while being structured and romantic. The shape consists of approximately four to eight facets in its pavilion––the v-shape base underneath the face of the stone––creating a heart pattern similar to that of a round brilliant-cut diamond shape.
With its clean, straight lines and stylish hall of mirrors effect, the emerald-cut diamond shape makes for one of the most timeless engagement ring styles. This particular diamond shape is a step-cut diamond that draws and reflects an abundance of light through its forty-nine rectangular facets that ascend outward and descend downward.
Emerald-cut diamond shapes may appear larger than their actual carat weight when compared to other diamond shapes. Its elongated shape takes up more surface area and is exaggerated by its shallow depth. If size matters, then this is your go-to diamond shape.
As the name suggests, the heart diamond shape is a showstopping literal symbol of all things love, thanks to its unique heart cut. This particular diamond shape is rarer than your usual round or princess-cut diamond and is often priced at a premium. Because of its unique fancy-cut shape, you'll want to make sure that you purchase an expertly cut stone that's symmetrical––so be prepared to spend a little extra.
Created in the 18th century, the marquise-cut diamond shape has a rich history reflective of the antique style. King Louis XV of France commissioned a jeweller to craft a diamond in the form of his mistress's lips––this became known as the marquise cut and, over time, has evolved to become the diamond we recognise today.
With its pointed edges and rounded centres, the marquise diamond shape closely resembles that of a football. Its style, however, reflects a vintage, regal vibe.
Another diamond shape for lovers of size––the marquise diamond shape encompasses fifty-eight facets: thirty-three on the crown, and twenty-five on the pavilion, giving it a large surface area that shows its carat weight well.
Thanks to A-list wearers such as Hailey Bieber and Blake Lively, the popularity of the oval diamond shape has increased in recent years. Add to the fact that they show their carat weight well and encompass an elongated feminine form that is flattering on any hand, and you're on a winner.
The pear-cut diamond shape, also called a teardrop shape, has a pointed top that extends to a full, rounded bottom, resembling, as the name suggests, a pear. The diamond shape is shallower than many of its counterparts and thus looks more significant from the top down, giving the finger a long look and a perfect choice for those looking for a diamond that wears its carat weight well.
At face, the princess-cut diamond shape is traditionally square. Its technical name––a square modified brilliant. With strong, angular lines, its underside is not that dissimilar to an inverted pyramid.
Princess-cut diamonds are slightly less expensive than round diamonds due to the octahedral shape of a rough diamond. Gem cutters can cut two princess diamonds with minimal waste when a rough diamond is split in half. Conversely, round-cut diamonds waste more rough, hence making them more expensive.
If the appearance of size is an important consideration when choosing your diamond shape, you'll want to remember the following. Although a princess cut and a round diamond may have the same carat weight, the round will always have a slightly larger face-up surface area when held alongside a princess cut. However, depending on your chosen setting, a princess cut can also appear prominent due to its large diagonal measurements.
If this is the shape you desire, it may be worth noting that the pointed corners of a princess-cut diamond are sharp and, if unprotected, may potentially snare and chip. Well-designed settings will always have the corners of this particular stone protected with prongs to reduce the risk of damage. Conversely, round diamonds are less likely to chip, given that there are no weak points.
The brilliant round-cut diamond shape is a classic and popular centre stone that is versatile and timeless thanks to its perfect balance of proportion and symmetry. Add to the fact that they sparkle beyond compare and carry their carat weight well, and you've got a stone on the wishlist of many dreaming of becoming engaged one day soon.
The round diamond shape is available in various sizes and at several price points, making it easy to source within a budget. It is also a stone that is easily customisable with plentiful settings, halos, and side stone designs to complement its simplicity.
Choosing a diamond shape that resonates with you is a unique way to add a special touch to your engagement ring, so it makes sense the insurance you choose to protect your investment is just as specialised.
Taking out a standalone engagement ring insurance policy will protect your beautiful diamond, no matter which shape you have chosen and keep you covered if it becomes damaged.
In need of engagement ring insurance? With Q Report, you can feel safe knowing that your valuable jewellery is protected. Click here to get an instant quote, or give us a call on 1300 882 018. We are always happy to help.
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This has not taken cut, colour, clarity or carat, your financial situation or your partners taste into account. There are many factors that can reduce or increase the value of an engagement ring.
Speak with one of our Q Certified Jewellers to find out what you can afford, what your partner is looking for and what will financially work best for you.
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