Diamond shapes

One of the key elements of your diamond that will be assessed is the cut of the stone. It is key that this is recorded correctly as the cut of your stone could significantly affect the value of it.

Whilst some cuts can look similar to the untrained eye, the Diamond Gemological Certificate can ensure your diamond is correctly, and precisely, classified. This will be advantageous when it comes to auctioning / handing down your precious stone, as personal taste and popular trends can sometimes dictate which stones are in the highest demand at different times.

To give you an idea of what diamond shapes we analyse, below is a simple guide to come of the most popular cuts:

Round brilliant diamonds

The classic and elegant round diamond has been one of the most coveted diamonds for generations and makes up roughly 75% of all diamonds sold. Symmetrical and beautiful, the round diamond is adored for its ability to bounce light in every direction, making it appear far brighter and more brilliant than some other cuts available.

Princess cut diamonds

This now iconic cut was thrust into the public wish list by a long list of celebrity engagement rings. The princess cut diamond is relatively new (created in 1980) and is now the second most-popular diamond sold in America. The princess cut diamond’s inverted shape lend itself incredibly well to almost any style of ring, making it a beautiful choice when used on its own or among other stones.

Oval diamonds

In most occasions, an oval diamond is modified from a brilliant-cut diamond. Like the round brilliant style, the oval diamond is incredibly adept at reflection and shine, making it a fine choice for someone who admires the classic elements of the round brilliant but wants something more stylish and unique. The slender shape of the oval diamond can look incredibly elegant on the finger and also gives the illusions of being bigger.

Marquise cut diamonds

Symmetry is key when it comes to the coveted marquise cut diamond, with the point of the tip needing to align perfectly with the point at the bottom. Like the oval diamond, they are long and narrow but have the sharper edge. This stone is widely desired as it has one of the largest crown surfaces, making it look bigger than it is. FACT: This stone is named after the Marquise of Pompadour, after King Louis XIV had a stone modelled to resemble the shape of her mouth.

Pear shape diamonds

The tear drop-shaped pear diamond makes it truly unique. The cut expertly combines the shapes of the popular oval and marquise diamonds, with the result being an incredibly grand, beautiful shape. For maximum effect, the point should be worn facing the hand of the wearer.

Emerald diamonds

The emerald cut diamond is the third most popular cut in America. The long step-cut facets truly bring out the clarity of the diamond, giving it a more subtle appearance than all of the above stones, which are tailored from brilliant cut diamonds. Instead of the rainbow shine you get with these brilliant cut diamonds, the emerald diamond emanates almost a hall of mirrors effect, which is sure to catch the eye of everyone in the room.

Cushion cut diamonds

The vintage-looking cushion cut diamond has become a much sought-after shape as jewellery with an antique feel has become incredibly popular. Cushion cut diamonds have a square cut yet with rounded corners.

Heart shaped diamonds

The heart shaped diamond is the ultimate declaration of love. Totally unique, this diamond cut is just as popular on necklaces as it is in rings. As the heart shape is difficult to cut, heart shape diamonds tend to be big, loud and proud.

Asscher cut diamonds

This cut of diamond was driven into popularity after nice boy Aiden proposed to Carrie Bradshaw with a beautiful asscher cut diamond ring. It is incredibly similar to the emerald cut, but is far more brilliant, due to the higher crown and larger step facets.