Understanding diamond shapes
The first step to choosing a diamond is selecting from one of the major diamond shapes available. This step of the diamond buying process is one of the easiest and it is strictly dependent upon personal preference. Round brilliant stones are the most popular and are thought to be the quintessential diamond shape. It is important not to confuse diamond shape with diamond cut. One shape is not necessarily better than another is. For each shape, the cut can range from ideal to poor, meaning that the amount of refraction and dispersion of light ranges from ideal to poor.
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Round Diamonds
Round diamonds are the most popular diamonds. The round cut was dramatically improved by Marcel Tolkowsky nearly a century ago. Using advanced mathematics, he worked out the particular facet angles and diamond proportions needed to maximize a diamond's brilliance.
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Princess Diamonds
The princess cut diamond is a relatively new cut, created about 30 years ago with the aim of combining the brilliance found in round cuts with the popular stepped lines of emerald cuts. Princess cut diamonds are now runners up in popularity to round diamonds. Square to somewhat rectangular in shape, they are popular for engagement rings.
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Cushion Diamonds
The cushion shape (also sometimes known as a pillow cut) was the most common diamond cut from the mid-19th century onwards. In today's market it's a rare cut and sought after by those seeking an unusual alternative to an oval shape. The cushion cut is available in square and more rectangular dimensions.
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Pear Diamonds
A pear shaped diamond, also known as a teardrop, is popular not only as the centre stone in a ring, but also as the focal point of a diamond pendant. An expert diamond cutter will ensure that light is reflected evenly throughout the stone.
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Asscher Diamonds
The Asscher was created by Joseph Asscher and his brother in Holland a little over 100 years ago. A classic cut, it tends towards a square shape but with corners cut diagonally. It is similar to the emerald cut but with less rectangular dimensions. |
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Emerald Diamonds
Emerald-cut diamonds are traditional classics. The shape derives from cutting in steps so that the diamond achieves a series of parallel facets which resemble delicate terraces. Emerald-cut diamonds have rectangular dimensions and blocked corners. |
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Heart Diamonds
Heart-shaped diamonds are a popular choice for the romantically inclined. This is a shape which demands an expert diamond cutter to bring out the natural brilliance of the diamond while crafting the best heart proportions. |
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Marquise Diamonds
A marquise diamond resembles an elongated oval with ends which come to a gradual point. It is a popular choice for those seeking a shape which will flatter a slim, long finger. |
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Oval Diamonds
Oval diamonds are popular for those seeking the brilliance of round diamonds but who prefer a slightly elongated shape. |
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Radiant Diamonds
Radiant diamonds combine the blocked corners and clean lines of the emerald cut with the triangular facets of the round cut. Similar to princess cut diamonds, they are usually more rectangular in their dimensions. |
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Unique Diamonds
Each rough diamond suggests a particular cut to bring out its full potential and sometimes that cut is something truly out of the ordinary. |