Choosing the right diamond shape is one of the most important steps when creating a piece of fine jewellery, especially for engagement rings, anniversary gifts, or custom designs. The shape you choose influences how the stone looks, how it sparkles, and what it says about your personal style.
This blog explores the most popular diamond shapes, what makes each one unique, and how to choose the right option based on your lifestyle, preferences, setting, and budget. Whether you love timeless classics or modern statement pieces, understanding diamond shapes will help you make a confident decision.
What Does Diamond Shape Mean
Shape vs Cut
A diamond’s shape refers to its outline when viewed from above, such as round, oval, square, or heart. The cut describes how well the diamond has been faceted, including the angles and proportions that affect how light reflects inside the stone.
In simple terms:
- Shape is what the diamond looks like
- Cut is how well it sparkles
Why Shape Matters
The shape of a diamond affects:
- Brilliance and light performance
- Overall style and visual impact
- How the stone fits into different jewellery settings
- Finger appearance, since some shapes make fingers look longer or slimmer
The Most Popular Shapes
Round diamonds are the most well-known, but they are not the only option. Fancy shapes like oval, cushion, emerald, and pear offer distinctive character and a more unique look.
Names of Diamond Shapes: The Most Popular Options Explained
Round Brilliant
Overview: The most popular and classic choice, offering maximum brilliance.
Best for: Engagement rings and timeless designs
Key features: 58 facets and exceptional sparkle
Princess Cut
Overview: A square or rectangular shape with pointed corners.
Best for: Modern and bold looks
Key features: High brilliance and flexible setting options
Cushion Cut
Overview: Rounded corners with larger facets for a softer look.
Best for: Vintage-inspired or romantic designs
Key features: Larger facets that create a beautiful glow and a classic feel
Oval Cut
Overview: An elongated, round shape that looks elegant and refined.
Best for: Making the finger appear longer
Key features: Excellent brilliance and a versatile silhouette
Emerald Cut
Overview: Rectangular shape with trimmed corners and step cut facets.
Best for: Sophisticated and classic styles
Key features: Clean, open facets that highlight clarity more than sparkle
Asscher Cut
Overview: A square version of the emerald cut with a deeper pavilion.
Best for: Vintage designs with bold symmetry
Key features: Strong geometry and best results with high clarity stones
Radiant Cut
Overview: Square or rectangular shape with trimmed corners and brilliant facets.
Best for: Maximum brilliance with a modern edge
Key features: Strong sparkle and a crisp, contemporary look
Pear Cut
Overview: A teardrop shape that combines round and marquise styles.
Best for: Eye-catching jewellery designs
Key features: Elongated appearance and a beautiful option for pendants and earrings
Marquise Cut
Overview: An oval shape with pointed ends.
Best for: Bold and vintage style rings
Key features: Makes the stone appear larger and elongates the finger
Heart Cut
Overview: A romantic and symbolic heart outline.
Best for: Meaningful and personalized pieces
Key features: Expressive shape that suits special occasions and statement designs
Other Popular Stone Shapes for Jewellery
Many diamond shapes are also used for coloured gemstones:
- Emerald cut for sapphires, rubies, and other coloured stones
- Cushion cut to enhance colour depth and softness
- Trillion cut for sharp and modern accent stones
- Baguette cut for side stones and sleek detailing
- Marquise and oval shapes to add elegance and dimension to gemstone pieces
How to Choose the Right Diamond Shape for Your Jewellery
Consider Your Style
Different shapes suit different tastes:
- Timeless: Round, oval, emerald
- Modern: Princess, radiant
- Bold: Marquise, pear
- Vintage inspired: Cushion, Asscher
For engagement rings, round, oval, and cushion are among the most popular choices. For everyday jewellery, durability and comfort in the setting are just as important as appearance.
Finger Shape and Size
Certain shapes help flatter the hand:
- Oval and marquise often make fingers look longer
- Emerald creates an elegant, elongated look
- Round offers balanced proportions on most hands
Setting Considerations
Some shapes pair especially well with certain settings:
- Round stones suit solitaire designs perfectly
- Princess cuts work well with halo and detailed settings
- Oval and emerald cuts are excellent for side stones and custom layouts
Budget and Availability
A diamond shape can influence cost and selection:
- Round diamonds often cost more because demand is high
- Many fancy shapes offer great value for carat weight
- Some shapes are easier to find in coloured gemstones than others
Where to Buy Diamonds with Confidence: Samuel Kleinberg
Choosing the right jeweller matters as much as choosing the right stone.
Why choose Samuel Kleinberg:
- Expert guidance on selecting the ideal diamond shape
- A wide selection of premium diamonds for engagement rings and custom jewellery
- A trusted destination for high-quality jewellery in Canada
- Personal service that helps match the right stone to your style and budget
The right diamond shape can turn a beautiful stone into a personal statement. From timeless round brilliants to elegant emerald cuts and expressive heart shapes, each option offers a different look and feel.
By understanding how shape affects sparkle, style, and fit, you can choose a diamond that suits your vision and your lifestyle. With expert guidance and a trusted selection, Samuel Kleinberg makes it easier to find the perfect shape for an engagement ring, a gift, or a custom jewellery piece.
FAQs
- What is the most popular diamond shape
The round brilliant shape is the most popular because it offers exceptional sparkle and a timeless look.
- What is the difference between a diamond’s shape and cut
Shape is the outline, such as round or oval. Cut is the quality of the proportions and facets that determine brilliance.
- Which diamond shape is best for an engagement ring
It depends on personal style, but round, oval, and cushion are among the most popular choices.
- How do I choose the right shape for my engagement ring
Consider your partner’s style, finger shape, preferred setting, and budget, then compare a few shapes in person to see what feels right.