Shape is always a significant consideration when shopping for any diamond. While the 4C's are extremely important, the shape of the stone will have a major impact on a diamond's appearance.
People often confuse a diamond's shape with its cut as the two characteristics are frequently listed side-by-side. For example, a "Round Brilliant" diamond is one with a Round shaped diamond with a Brilliant cut style.
Shape refers to the physical form and contour of the diamond.
The quality of a diamond's cut dictates overall proportion and how it reacts to light. The cut is what makes a diamond sparkly.
In addition to Round diamonds, there are a variety of other shapes that appeal to any taste and preference. Ultimately, the attractiveness of the stone depends on the personal preference of the wearer. It is always a good idea to get a sense of preferred diamond shape before buying a stone for that special someone.
Knowing what shape you're interested in makes searching for diamonds much easier. Here's a list of the different shapes to get you started:
Round - Round diamonds are the most popular shape. Round brilliant-cut diamonds, with their 58 facets and 360-degree symmetrical shape, are the most optically brilliant diamonds.
Princess - Also very popular, Princess diamonds are a great choice if you're looking for a square or rectangular stone, but still want the brilliance of a Round diamond. If you prefer a square-shaped Princess diamond, choose a length-to-width ratio between 1 and 1.05. For a quality rectangular shaped Princess diamond, look for a length-to-width ratio greater than 1.10.
Marquise - The elongated diamond gives the illusion of greater size while accentuating long, slender fingers. Classic Marquise shape usually have a length-to-width ratio between 1.75 and 2.25.
Emerald - Emerald diamonds have long facets, layered corners that resemble stairs and a cut that highlights clarity better than any other shape of diamond. If you prefer an Emerald cut with a square outline, look for an Asscher-cut diamond. For a classical Emerald shape, look for a length-to-width ratio between 1.30 and 1.50.
Asscher - A variation of the classic Emerald shape, Asscher diamonds have deeply trimmed corners and a thick profile within a square frame. A classical Asscher shape has a length-to-width ratio close to 1.00. If you prefer an Asscher-cut style with a more rectangular outline, look for an Emerald-cut stone.
Cushion - Cushion shaped stones have a square-rectangular cut with rounded corners and large facets that enhance brilliance. Those seeking a square shaped Cushion diamond should look for length-to-width ratio between 1 and 1.05. For a rectangular shaped Cushion, try a length-to-width ratio between 1.10 and 1.20.
Radiant - Blocked corners are the signature trait of Radiant shape diamonds. They combine the shape of a classic Emerald stone with the brilliance and fire of a Round-cut diamond. If you prefer a square shaped Radiant diamond, look for a length-to-width ratio between 1 and 1.05. If you prefer a rectangular shape, the length-to-width ratio should be greater than 1.10.
Pear - Pear diamonds are a combination of Round and Marquise shaped stones (think tear drop). A classical Pear shaped diamond has a length-to-width ratio between 1.45 and 1.75.
Oval - Oval diamonds offer the sparkle of round stone in an elongated silhouette. They are the ideal choice for those who want a unique shaped diamond that accentuates long, slender fingers. Classical oval shape diamonds have a length-to-width ratio between 1.33 and 1.66.
Heart - Heart diamonds offer brilliance and symmetry, but have a unique shape. The lobes of a Heart stone should be rounded, not pointed, and clearly defined. A wider Heart shape will have a length-to-width ratio between 0.85 and 1.00. For a longer, tapered design, try a length-to-width ratio between 1.00 and 1.10.
