Learn About
Diamond Shapes

Diamond shape refers to the outline of the diamond when looking from above. It is usually the first characteristic couples consider when shopping for a diamond. While round shape diamonds are the most popular choice because of their brilliance, fancy shape diamonds attract many couples because of their distinctive appearance. Fancy shape diamonds include cushion, oval, princess, marquise, pear, radiant, asscher and heart shape diamonds.

Most diamonds are cut with precise symmetry and proportions to capture and reflect the maximum amount of light. The round brilliant cut diamond does this to the greatest effect. Variations of the brilliant cut include radiant, princess, cushion, pear, marquise, oval and heart shapes, all of which display intense brilliance. Other diamond shapes are cut with larger and fewer facets creating a more subtle radiance with emphasis placed on clarity over sparkle. These are also called ‘step cuts’ and include the emerald and asscher shape diamonds.

Perhaps because a diamond must be cut to create its shape, the terms ‘diamond cut’ and ‘diamond shape’ are often confused. While a diamond’s shape refers to its physical outline, the cut of the diamond measures its ability to return light to the eye as a result of its facet arrangement. Cut is one of the 4C’s (Cut, Colour, Clarity and Carat) and is regarded by many as the most important diamond characteristic being responsible for its brilliance, fire and scintillation.

At Diamond Exchange we recommend a cut grading of Excellent or above for round diamonds and Very Good and above for fancy shapes.