Unveiling the Beauty Beyond the Round – Which Natural Diamond Shape is Right for You?
The natural diamond center stone is the most important factor when picking out an engagement ring. The shape of the diamond sets the tone for the overall design aspect of the ring. Often when a client walks into our store looking for an engagement ring, one of the first questions we ask is “What diamond shape are you most interested in?” Having a general idea of which shape or shapes you like best is a great starting point.
Before we delve into the different shapes, let’s define what a diamond shape is. A natural diamond shape refers to the geometric outline of the diamond. The term “cut” can also be used interchangeably when describing a diamond’s shape. For example, we have “emerald cut” and “cushion shape” natural diamonds. In this blog post, we will be going over two categories of shapes – round diamonds, and “fancy shapes” which are oval, pear, cushion, marquise, and emerald natural diamonds.
Now, let’s figure out which shape is right for you.
Round
When picturing a diamond ring, the first shape you normally think of is a round diamond. Round diamonds are the most iconic and timeless shape for an engagement ring. In 1919, Marcel Tolkowsky revolutionized the round cut by designing a diamond with 58 facets, a groundbreaking innovation that unleashed a mesmerizing dance of light, never witnessed before from this classic shape. Round brilliant-cut natural diamonds are favored for their versatility, making them a perfect choice for numerous reasons; their elegance complements simple settings, while also serving as an ideal foundation for crafting more intricate and imaginative artistic designs.
Oval
The oval diamond is considered the artistic cousin of the round brilliant due to its elongating quality. It features 58 facets and elegantly reaches up the finger creating a more dramatic effect and illusion of longer fingers. Ovals gained popularity during the early 20th century as gem-cutting techniques advanced, allowing lapidaries to enhance the graceful curves of the gems. Oval natural diamonds cater to both minimalistic and artistic designs which makes them a great choice.
Pear
Pear-shaped, also known as teardrop, natural diamonds have been a part of jewelry history since the 15th century. Its tapered point and rounded end create a distinctive look. Though modern pears with 57 facets have a rich history of appearing in engagement rings, their contemporary usage is vastly different. We are seeing more engagement rings with setting the pear-shaped east to west or slightly offset. They are traditionally set with the tapered point up, but we are also seeing this flipped so that the point is facing down. Pear-shaped natural diamonds strike a balance between the classic and the unconventional, offering a happy medium for those seeking a unique yet timeless shape.
Cushion
The cushion-cut diamond showcases a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, reminiscent of a cushion or pillow. The curves on the natural diamond help reflect light and enhance the brilliance of the diamond. Cushion-cut diamonds are a vintage-inspired shape that was a popular choice throughout history, dating back to the eighteenth century. These natural diamonds are an excellent choice for individuals seeking a vintage-inspired look and feel, allowing them to customize their rings with timeless elegance.
Marquise
The marquise natural diamond features an elongated shape with pointed ends, resembling a boat or an eye. Legend has it that this shape was created during the 18th-century reign of Louis XV, when he was so enamored by his mistress’ lips that he commissioned a royal jeweler to create a design and shape that mirrored her lips. Referred to as navette shapes, these natural diamonds are now commonly set horizontally, spanning across the hand rather than vertically up the finger, resulting in a contemporary appearance that deviates from their traditional vintage charm. Whether you have an heirloom marquise diamond or simply adore this shape, restyling it in this modern look offers a fantastic way to breathe new life into its allure.
Emerald
Historically once the most popular shape for emeralds, emerald-cut diamonds are generally rectangular but can also come in square shapes. This shape emphasizes clarity over brilliance, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate a sleek and sophisticated appearance. Due to its elongated shape, the emerald cut can create the illusion of longer, slender fingers, making it a popular choice for those who want a ring that complements their hand's natural features. This diamond shape is versatile and pairs beautifully with various settings, from classic solitaires to elaborate vintage-inspired designs.
Choosing the perfect diamond shape for an engagement ring goes beyond aesthetics; it is an expression of emotions, individuality, and the profound love shared between two people. Whether you are drawn to the classic allure of a round natural diamond, the captivating charm of a marquise, or the sleek refinement of an emerald cut, your chosen natural diamond will embody the everlasting commitment between you and your partner.
Your engagement ring should be a unique reflection of your personality and style, making the selection process more special. With a plethora of options to explore, the journey to finding the ideal diamond shape will be filled with wonder and excitement. Each shape holds its own story and symbolism, waiting for you to discover the one that resonates most deeply with your heart.
At the bottom of this blog post, we've prepared an interactive diamond quiz to guide you in discovering the diamond shape that aligns best with your preferences and style. So, let's embark on this journey together, and may your chosen diamond shape become a cherished token of eternal love.
