The Most Popular Diamond Cuts: Which One Suits You Best?

Diamonds, diamonds, diamonds! They sparkle loudly and are the perfect representation of luxury. Choosing the right diamond ring according to your style is very important.

The cut of that diamond ring is an important factor to look for when shopping for a ring because it determines how the light reflects on its surface, which ultimately leads to influencing its overall look! Every cut is beautiful on its own, but did you know? The round brilliant cut accounts for approximately 75% of all diamonds sold worldwide. They are popular in engagement rings.

In this article, we will help you determine which is the best cut of diamond for your next purchase!

Popular Diamond Cuts: A Breakdown

There are a lot of diamond cuts to choose from, and here we present you with the most popular cuts and their features that will help you make the best decision for yourself. 

1. Round Brilliant Cut

• Popularity: The round brilliant cut rules the diamond market, accounting for 75% of diamond sales globally.
• Features: This cut features 57 or 58 expertly aligned facets intended to capture maximum light reflection, inducing unparalleled radiance.
• Best For: Traditional individuals who like a more ageless sophistication and adaptability
• Tips: Pair round brilliant diamonds with a halo setting to enhance their sparkle, or with a solitaire setting to highlight their classic beauty. Employ a higher clarity grade to ensure maximum brilliance. Explore our collection of round cut diamond rings .

2. Emerald Cut

• Popularity: Emerald cuts sell about 3% of the diamonds sold.
• Features: Described as rectangular with stepped cuts that make the "hall of mirrors" illusion.
• Best For: The minimalists, those who desire discreet sparkle and a clean lines aesthetic.
• Tips: Go for clarity grades of high clarity (VS2 or above) because then the inclusions here will be seen more easily. Think of supporting emerald-cut diamonds with an easy prong setting to focus the attention on their step cut. Shop our collection of emerald cut diamond rings.

3. Oval Cut

• Popularity: Oval diamonds have become 20% more popular over the last five years.
• Features: The elongated shape is similar to the round diamond but with softer edges, providing brilliance similar to the round cut.
• Best For: For individuals who want to make their fingers look longer without compromising on sparkle.
• Tips: Oval diamonds appear beautifully in halo settings, which highlight their sparkle and make them appear larger. Use a four-prong setting to hold the diamond in place and highlight its elongated form. Explore our collection of oval cut diamond rings.

4. Marquise Cut

• Popularity: The marquise cut is popular for its dramatic appeal and is the choice of bold personalities.
• Features: It has a narrow and elongated shape with pointed terminals, providing the largest surface area per carat among all diamond shapes. 
• Best For: People who enjoy making a statement through striking and unique designs.
• Tips: Match marquise diamonds with a solitaire setting to highlight their distinctive shape. Opt for a setting with guard prongs to protect the pointed tips. Checkout our collection of marquise cut diamond rings.

5. Princess Cut

• Popularity: The princess cut is the second most popular shape next to the round brilliant.
• Features: This square or rectangular cut has sharp corners and lots of sparkle as a result of its brilliant faceting style.
• Best For: Modern romantics who desire something flashy but unique.
• Tips: Princess cuts look amazing in halo or three-stone settings, which add fire and brilliance. Choose a setting with corner prongs to shield the sharp corners.

6. Cushion Cut

• Popularity: Cushion cuts represent about 8% of engagement ring sales.
• Features: Rounded corners and larger facets enhance brilliance while giving this cut a vintage charm.
• Best For: Vintage lovers who adore soft edges and romantic designs.
• Tips: Cushion cuts are versatile and pair beautifully with both modern and antique settings. Consider a setting with a delicate filigree detail to enhance their vintage appeal.

7. Pear Cut

• Popularity: Pear-shaped diamonds combine elements of round and marquise cuts into a teardrop design.
• Features: This unique shape creates an elegant silhouette that elongates fingers and offers excellent brilliance.
• Best For: engagement rings and toi et moi diamond ring.
• Tips: Pear-shaped diamonds look stunning in solitaire settings, which emphasize their unique shape. Consider orienting the pear shape vertically for a dramatic effect or horizontally (East-West setting) for a more subtle look.

Comparison Table

How to Choose the Right Diamond Cut

Selecting the perfect diamond cut depends on various factors:

1. Finger Shape and Size

Certain cuts like oval and marquise elongate fingers, while round cuts suit all finger types. For those with shorter fingers, a pear or oval shape can create a slimming effect.

2. Style Preferences

Minimalists might lean toward emerald cuts, while romantics may prefer cushion or pear shapes. If you're a fan of vintage styles, consider a cushion cut diamond ring.

3. Occasion

For engagement rings, classic shapes like round brilliant or princess are ideal. However, for a more unique look, consider an oval or marquise diamond ring.

4. Budget

While budget isn't everything, it can influence your choice. For those looking for affordable options, consider moissanite diamonds or smaller carat weights. For those who are on a budget, they can also look into some alternatives, such as moissanite, which is a lot cheaper while being an equally quality option.

Diamond Cuts and Finger Shape: A Guide

Here’s how different diamond cuts complement various finger shapes:

Diamond Cuts and Settings: A Perfect Match

The setting you choose can enhance or detract from your diamond's beauty. Here are some popular settings and how they complement different diamond cuts:

1. Solitaire Setting

• Best For: Round brilliant, marquise, and pear shapes.
• Why: Highlights the diamond's shape and sparkle.

2. Halo Setting

• Best For: Oval, cushion, and emerald cuts.
• Why: Adds extra sparkle and emphasizes the diamond's size.

3. Three-Stone Setting

• Best For: Princess and round brilliant cuts.
• Why: Symbolizes past, present, and future, making it perfect for engagement rings.

For more elaborate knowledge of the right setting for your diamond, check out our article Diamond Ring Settings Explained: How to Choose the Perfect One

Conclusion

Choosing the right diamond cut is about finding one that resonates with your personality, style, and occasion. Whether you're drawn to the timeless beauty of an emerald cut diamond ring or the bold appeal of a marquise diamond ring, there's a perfect match out there for everyone.

FAQ's

1. What diamond cut looks the best?

Ans: The round brilliant cut is one of the most popular designs. It is not about what is the best; it is about what will suit you the best. It's all about your style and personal preference. 

2. How do you know which diamond shape suits you?

Ans: To figure out which diamond shape is most flattering for you, think about your finger shape, your personal style, and the occasion. Oval and pear shapes, for instance, can stretch out fingers, and cushion cuts provide a retro appeal.

3. What is the most popular kind of diamond step cut?

Ans: Emerald cut is the most popular type of diamond step cut. It is rectangular in shape and has stepped facets that create a sophisticated "hall of mirrors" effect.

4. What is the ideal cut in a diamond?

Ans: The ideal cut in a diamond is one that maximizes light performance and brilliance. The round brilliant cut is often considered ideal due to its precise faceting, which enhances sparkle.

5. Which diamond cut is best for elongating fingers?

Ans: Oval, marquise, and pear-shaped diamonds are ideal for elongating fingers as their elongated shapes create a slimming effect.