Shapes / Cuts of a Diamond
Round
Round is the most popular shape in diamonds and also the most expensive one. It is almost 30-40% more expensive than the rest of the fancy shapes. Intrigued as to, why? When we procure a round shape from the rough diamond, the wastage is maximum. Secondly, a standard round brilliant diamond has 58 facets.
Every facet of a round brilliant diamond contributes to its interaction with light.
If the cut is ideal, It’s that interaction with light that gives a diamond its dazzling face-up appearance. All the other shapes are, in fact, just modified from the round shape.
Ideal depth of this shape is 58%-63% and ideal ratio is 1:1.
Princess
Princess cut diamond feature a square to slightly rectangular outline. The 4 corners are pointed. The princess cut looks like a round diamond with four corners. Hence the sparkle is very similar to round cut. This is a modern shape. It has 76 facets which add to its brilliance and fire. It is 20-25% cheaper than rounds. It’s ideal depth is 65% to 75% and with the ideal ratio is 1.00-1.03.
Emerald
Emerald cut diamonds vary from nearly square to a narrow rectangle step-cut with cropped corners. It is similar to the Asscher cut, but this is a more rectangular shape. Emerald cut shape look larger due to greater surface area. These shapes are less expensive than most of the other fancy shapes. Its ideal ratio is 1.50 with ideal depth being taken as 61% to 67%.
Oval
Oval cut is an elliptical shaped cut. Oval diamonds are like an elongated version of the round brilliant cut. It is popular because of its similarity in appearance to round but is economical as compared to above but the brilliance of round is unmatched. It comprises of 58 facets. Ideal depth of oval cut is 58-62%. And the ideal ratio is 1.
Pear
Pear cuts are known for their brilliance and timeless elegance. Pears can give an elongated look to the finger when set in a ring. It goes well with pendants as well as earrings. This shape combines the round bottom of Round Brilliant shape & tapered point of Marquise. An ideal cut depth is 58-62%. Ideal ratio of pear is 1.40-1.70.
Marquise
A Marquise cut can maximise carat weight making it appear larger than other stones of the same size. A perfectly symmetrical shape of marquise cut is rare and hence very greatly sought for. It is generally comprised of 57 facets. It has the largest diamond crown. Ideal ratio of marquise is 1.74-2.25 & and depth being 58% to 62% respectively.
Heart
A brilliant cut, heart diamond is able to provide similar levels of sparkle as the round and is even more eye-catching because of their shape. It is a unique shape and taken as a symbol of love. This shape is very popular as solitaire pendants as well as in rings. It has 56 to 58 facets, The ideal depth is 58% to 62% and ratio is 1.00:1.00.
Cushion
Cushion cut diamonds are four sided deep square or rectangle cut with rounded edges and bigger facets. Featuring 58 facets, they are larger and more open than other cuts. The light reflection and look of a cushion cut is bulkier than other diamonds. A cushion cut may also be described as a cross between the old mine cut and modern oval shape. It’s ideal depth is 61% to 67%.
Baguette
Baguette Cut is narrow rectangular cut with sharp corners. This shape usually have 14 facets and come in smaller carat weights than other cuts.These are cheaper than the round or emerald cuts. These have less sparkle so flaws in these diamonds are easily visible. It’s usually set to enhance some bigger diamond. It’s ideal ratio is 1.5-1.
Trillion
A trilliant is a triangular cut gemstone. It has 25 facets on the crown and 19 facets on the pavilion. A well-cut Trillion with great fire and brilliance can also hide the inclusions and blemishes. Compared with other cuts of the same carat, this cut gives a wider look. Most common colours used in trillion are F, G, H with purity SI1, SI2. The ideal depth of this cut is 32% -48%.It’s ideally of 1:1 ratio.
Asscher
Asscher cut is a four sided diamond cut similar to square emerald cut. It is usually with longer step facets, a higher crown and a smaller table. The number of main facets is usually 58. This cut allows tremendous lustre and creates a fascinating optical illusion. It’s ideal depth is 61- 67% with a ratio of 1:00.
