Round? Princess? Cushion? Or Oval? Which one to choose from more than 10 popular diamonds shapes outhere?
We all know that Round is the most popular shape ever (we will see why below), that’s obvious when you start searching on online stores like Whiteflash, they will start sorting shapes from Round:
James Allen as well:
And Blue Nile is not an exception:
This is not a coincedence of course, because we all know that the diamond brilliance (light reflection) is not only dependent on a very good or excellent cut, it has more to do with the diamond shape itself, because different shapes reflect lights in different angles.
People mix between diamond cut & diamond shape, in today’s article, we will cover this in details and see why BOTH cut & shape play a huge influence on diamond brilliance.
As a start, this image here will give us an idea how different cut grades in a round-shaped diamond reflects light based on its cut:
Table of Contents
Why Diamond Shape is Important Factor?
So what has the cut or shape of the diamond got to do with choosing a diamond?
There is no overlooking the facts that every woman wants the biggest, clearest, most sparkling and beautiful diamond on her finger. Are you planning to get an engagement ring & make a big surprise for that special lady in your life?
You definitely want that peice of diamond to shine, sparkle, and give a great brilliance, to make this happen you need to know the right cut and shape to make the right choice.
The image above shows how a round diamond reflects light, and by the way, round shape is considered the best shape that sparkles the most of light that goes through it, and that’s why it’s the most demanded diamond in the market.
To be clear, all diamond shapes reflects light in a way or another, and collectively: diamond shapes and cuts are the most important factor to consider when diamond shopping. After all, nobody ever wants a stone they can’t show off.
However, it is worth noting that there is nothing like the perfect diamond, ladies want a diamond for different reasons and because everyone has their unique taste, personality and style, you are always sure that you will get a diamond that will suit you.
What is The Difference Between Diamond Cut & Diamond Shape?
There is a huge & wrong mix between diamond shape & cut, while they are “somehow” related, but not to the extent that makes people doesn’t know the difference between both.
What is Diamond Cut?
Diamond Cut refers to the proportioning, symmetry, polishing, and the craftsmanship that was done on the diamond, any artisan or craftsman will attempt to cut a diamond to make the best use of light so it reflects to the best angles.
So in terms of Cut, we have four known levels, as seen in the previous image, these are:
1- Excellent Cut: The diamond was cut to a perfect proportion, it got straight A’s in all measurements related to the Cut
2- Very Good Cut: As the name implies, the diamond is a very good one, it has a perfect light reflection with almost perfect proportion. It’s worth to mention that upgrading from v.good to excellent is costy, more than upgrading a color or clarity one level up. The V.Good cut is the recommended grade that we always recommend our readers not to go under.
3- Good cut: The artisan didn’t succeed in getting the diamond to an upper level, or the diamond itself was a bit deep and couldn’t make it better, good cut diamond is “average” in terms of light reflection.
4- Fair: They shouldn’t call it fair actually, GIA should have named it “BAD” cut but maybe they left something for a lower grade, most of the light go through the diamond and get out from the bottom & sides. Sometimes people get this grade for side diamonds on the ring.
These are the most popular cut grades, but there are other grades like poor (less than Fair), and Hearts & Arrows, this type of diamonds are branded like a separate level and online vendors have their own trademarks on top of the notch excellent cuts, like Astor by Blue Nile™ which we covered in a separate article, or JamesAllen True Hearts™ diamonds (covered as well).
What is Diamond Shape?
Diamond shape refers to the appearance of the diamond, there is a lot of diamonds shapes out there, but 99% of the market is within a collection of 10-12 diamond shapes, this image shows the most popular diamond shapes:
Remember that the best way to get a diamond that will wow her and others are to know the right cut AND shape to choose.
While the brilliance of diamonds is different according to their shape and cut, the round brilliant diamond still remains the number one for diamond shoppers looking for a diamond to fulfill the 4C’s criteria of a diamond.
What are The Most Popular Diamond Shapes?
Let’s go through different diamonds shapes and see how each shape reflects light, we will sort shapes by brilliance & light reflection:
The Round Brilliant Shape
Among all the diamonds sold in the world today (and the most expensive one obviously), 7 out of every 10 diamond is a round shape. 
The round shape diamond remains the most sought-after diamond because of its cut and brilliance, they are also the smallest even when weighing the same as a large diamond of a different shape.
The cut of a round diamond affords it the ability to capture light at incredible angles and also reflects it too. The cut mechanism provides the round diamond with a total of 58 facets; 33 facets on the crown and 25 facets on the pavilion giving it the perfect brilliance, fire and size calibration for a wedding, engagement or that ring for that special lady in your life.
Round cuts are usually more expensive due to little pieces lost during the forming process.
Shop for Round Shape Diamonds on JamesAllen
The Marquise Shape
Shaped like a pouting lip, it has two pointy extremities at both ends; 
this shape gives it the illusion that is bigger than it actually looks. It does have the weight though. For a lady that isn’t afraid to be distinguished, the Marquise diamond shows exceptional brilliance and looks bright in all settings.
The marquise shape is very similar to the ball used in football, and it gives a great sparkle , but most importantly, if you want the diamond to LOOK larger, this shape is your choice, it has the largest area of surface, it’s not deep in its table, that’s why most of its size is visible.
Shopfor Marquise Shape Diamonds on JamesAllen
The Oval Shape
Almost mimicking the round shape diamond, the oval shape diamond has 58 facets that can be shaped into the different number of pavilions to create brilliance and fire that is very close to round diamonds.
They create an illusion of being larger than other diamond in the same weight group and a great cut for a wedding ring as they make your finger look longer and slender accentuating the size of the ring.
Shop for Oval Shape Diamonds on JamesAllen
The Pear Shape
A combination of a round and marquise diamond makes this diamond a unique find. The shape is part of the brilliant family & also a great option for earrings and pendant, but when used for rings, it is the most beautiful and elegant piece ever.
The cut comes with 58 facets, with brilliant patterns that can be cut in different numbers pavilions to create different forms. The round part of this diamond gives the ring a shine and sparkle synonymous with all-round diamonds. It is not the cheapest either, so you need a good budget to get this one.
Similar to marquise shape, the pear shape has a large area as well, so it’s more noticeable than other shapes.
Shop for Pear Shape diamonds on JamesAllen
The Heart Shape
Heart shaped diamonds are basically a pear-shaped diamond with a cleft at the top. Heart shaped diamonds are sometimes considered romantic, but they can be difficult to cut. The skill of the cutter greatly determines the beauty of heart shaped diamonds. 
In regards to its sparkle & brilliance, the Heart shape follows the brilliant family, which gives a great sparkle and light reflection, since the shape is not easily identified for small diamonds, it’s not recommended to get a heart shape with carat less than 0.5-0.6.
Shopfor Heart Shape Diamonds on JamesAllen
The Princess Shape
The princess shape is also considered from the Brilliant Shape Family, this very delicate, feminine and soft cut is stylish and more 
modern for the lady that wished to step away from the umbrella of the round shape diamond. The diamond also has 58 facets allowing it to sparkle under the right light, but also hide flaws like the round diamond.
Despite its stunning brilliance, this double inverted pyramid shape diamond has pointy edges that do have the ability to chip away; otherwise it is a shape that will sit well in any light condition.
Shop for Princess Shape Diamonds on JamesAllen
The Radiant Shape
This shape comes in different variation with 53 to 70 facets depending on the cut of the diamond. The radiant is a cross between the princess and cushion diamond with excellent brilliance and fire.
An advantage of the radiant cut is the beveled corners giving the diamond more stability and radiance, especially for those with a busy hands-on lifestyle. It is not the cheapest either.
Shop for Radiant Shape diamonds on JamesAllen
The Cushion Shape
The cushion shape (some calls it pillow as well, but less popular) represents an “almost square” shape diamond with rounded edges to 
give that soft and romantic look. The cushion-cut is not the most brilliant diamonds on the market due to the inability for diamond cutters to perfect the form of the stone.
This shape was popular for long time for its nice look, but with more better shapes in the market, it became much less popular. If you are short on cash but want a stone that tells a beautiful tale of love and life, then this ring will do just that.
Shopfor Cushion Shape Diamonds on JamesAllen
The Emerald Shape
The emerald shape diamond is one step above the square shape diamonds (Princess & Cushion), as a step-cut diamond, it allows for impeccable clarity, cut; color in which flaws in the cut can be clearly seen.
Although not one of those diamonds with a striking brilliance, its depth, clarity, luster and the ability to retain its look and sophistication despite the era and setting makes it stand out. Furthermore, it is a great piece for those that want a large diamond and affordability in one cut.
Shop for Emerald Shape diamonds on JamesAllen
The AsscherShape
Asscher cut diamonds were developed in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland. The Asscher cut is a stepped square cut, often called the “square emerald shape” and like an Emerald shape, the Asscher shape has cropped corners. 
Asscher shaped diamonds have gained in popularity recently although they aren’t well-known for brilliance, rather for the shape itself.
Shop for Asscher Shape Diamonds on JamesAllen
Summary for Diamond Cut Vs. Shape
While the shape and cut are used interchangeably, basic know-how of the shapes of a diamond will allow you to make the right choice for that special person in your life.
Furthermore, the personality, style, and uniqueness of the recipient should determine what shape or cut will suit that person. Remember, diamonds are forever, choose one that will last an eternity.
We always recommend that you get your diamonds from a reputable online store, JamesAllen & Blue Nile have the largest collection ever, and if you want to shop directly for a premium quality diamonds, then head to Whiteflash.
Read: Why We Recommend Whiteflash for quality diamonds shopping in our Whiteflash detailed review.
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About the Author
Alexander Knight
A distinguished expert in the diamond industry with an unwavering passion for exceptional gemstones. With a keen eye for quality and a wealth of experience, Alexander has established himself as a prominent figure in the world of diamonds.
From an early age, Alexander was captivated by the allure and brilliance of diamonds. He embarked on a journey to understand the artistry and craftsmanship behind these precious gems. Through years of hands-on experience and collaboration with renowned diamond experts, Alexander has acquired comprehensive knowledge in diamond grading, sourcing, and jewelry design.
Driven by his desire to share his expertise, Alexander has created a captivating website dedicated to diamonds. Through this website, he imparts his wisdom and provides valuable insights on diamond education, trends, and investment opportunities.
With his impeccable reputation and extensive knowledge, Alexander Knight continues to leave a lasting impact in the dynamic world of diamonds, guiding others towards the discovery of their dream gemstone.
FAQs
Most Popular Diamond Shapes (Cuts) for Great Sparkle? ›
Round Cut Diamonds Sparkle The Most
The standard round cut diamond comprises 57 facets (58 including one on the bezel). This cut heightens the diamond's sparkle and shine. Because round diamonds have the largest number of facets, they create the most sparkle.
Round Cut Diamonds Sparkle The Most
The standard round cut diamond comprises 57 facets (58 including one on the bezel). This cut heightens the diamond's sparkle and shine. Because round diamonds have the largest number of facets, they create the most sparkle.
Which diamond cut has the least sparkle? Baguette is the worst diamond shape in terms of brilliance. This shape makes a diamond sparkle less, even if it has an ideal cut.
Which diamond shape is more popular? ›1. Round- Still takes the top spot. According to GIA, more than 60% of couples choose a round diamond for their center stone. The round cut has been around since the 1800's making it by far the most popular year after year.
Does diamond cut affect sparkle? ›The short answer: light's interaction with a diamond's cut. The type and quality of the cut govern how a diamond reacts to the light around it. The angles and relative measurements of a diamond's facets, as well as its other proportions, have a dramatic effect on how light performs when it strikes a diamond.
Are bigger diamonds more sparkly? ›It's a common misconception that the larger a diamond is, the more it will sparkle. Although the bigger stone might have space for more facets, two diamonds cut the same will sparkle the same, regardless of carat size.
How many carat is Meghan Markle's ring? ›The center stone has a special meaning
The cushion-cut center diamond of Meghan's engagement ring is estimated to be roughly three carats and was sourced from Botswana — a country that is very important to Prince Harry and where the couple took their first vacation together.
Radiant are square or rectangular brilliant-cut diamonds with cut corners. They are often the most affordable diamond shapes.
What shape of diamond is the least expensive? ›The pear or marquise cut is often the least expensive diamond form. Because they are less common than round, princess, and cushion cuts, these diamond shapes are less expensive. It's crucial to remember that a diamond's price is also influenced by carat weight, color, clarity, and cut quality.
What is the lowest diamond clarity that looks good? ›If you're trying to decide on a clarity grade for your diamond, SI1 might be your best option. These diamonds usually appear flawless to the eye and sell for less than VS diamonds. Learn more about SI1 clarity diamonds and how to choose the right one for your engagement ring.
What diamond cut is most popular 2023? ›
The classic round cut diamond remains the most popular diamond shape of 2023. This classic shape is the most versatile and timeless shape, making it a great choice for any occasion.
What is the most beautiful diamond? ›The Cullinan, the largest gem quality diamond ever found, was discovered at the Premier Mine on 26th January 1905. The rough diamond was nearly flawless and named the Cullinan in honour of Sir Thomas Cullinan, the founder of the Premier Mine, who was visiting that very day.
Which diamond cut shows the most color? ›Statistically, a round diamond cut sparkles the most out of all diamond shapes. It's the diamond's ability to reflect light within exact proportions. All brilliant fancy shapes can give excellent sparkle if the round diamond isn't for you.
What setting makes diamond sparkle the best? ›The most classic among these is called the prong setting. It is also the most popular as the stone is held in place with the minimal amount of metal – usually four or six prongs – allowing more light to pass through the diamond resulting in added brilliance.
What makes a diamond more sparkly? ›The way each of a diamond's tiny facets are cut and polished determines how much sparkle the diamond will have, which means the style and quality of cutting and polishing are equally important. More facets create more sparkle, and to achieve maximum sparkle, each facet must be cut and polished properly.
What cut of diamond is most expensive? ›The most expensive diamond cut is the round brilliant
And it's not just because it's the most in-demand: The round brilliant has the most facets of any shape, which require more precision work, and cutters have to discard more of the rough diamond, so you essentially pay for a larger stone than you end up with.
Light produced by LEDs casts a crisp, clean and clear beam that bring out the brilliance in stones. You see, diamonds and other stones reflect light and when light is reflected from them, their colors and cuts shine with utmost clarity.
What sparkles more diamond or cubic zirconia? ›The dispersion rate is a measure of the fire of a jewel and cubic zirconia outperforms diamonds significantly. Cubic zirconia's higher degree of sparkle is the reason why so many buyers prefer the overall aesthetic of a cubic zirconia rather than a diamond, particularly for engagement rings and statement rings.
How many carats is Melania Trump's ring? ›President Donald Trump has long claimed he didn't pay full price for First Lady Melania Trump's 15-carat diamond engagement ring.
How many carats is Princess Kate's ring? ›Kate Middleton's engagement ring is an oval Ceylon sapphire ring set in 18-karat white gold. The 12-carat sapphire is surrounded by an impressive 14 solitaire diamonds. It has astonishing history, and it was once given to Princess Diana by Prince Charles.
How many carats is Princess Diana's ring? ›
Known as one of the most famous and recognized pieces of jewelry in history, the ring is a 12-carat, oval Ceylon blue sapphire, framed by a halo of 14 diamonds, and set in 18-carat white gold.
Which diamond cut holds its value? ›Since a round diamond is thought to hold the most value when compared to the other shapes, it will almost always be given a higher price than any other shape with similar clarity, color, and carat weight.
What looks like a diamond but is more expensive? ›Moissanite is an interesting gemstone, because it is both synthetic, and a diamond simulant. It is not, however, a synthetic diamond. It is a diamond simulant because it is made to look like a diamond.
What is more better than diamond? ›Scientists have found a mineral stronger than diamond. They say lonsdaleite could be used to fortify industrial tools like drill bits and saw blades - AND teach us about the evolution of earth.
Which diamond shape is brightest? ›The most brilliant, or sparkliest, diamond cut is the round brilliant cut. Round brilliant diamonds are cut to have 58 facets (including the culet), allowing light to enter the diamond and reflect off of every facet to create a beautiful sparkle.
What color diamond is the cheapest? ›Because they are less rare, yellow diamonds can cost much less per carat than other colored diamonds. Some light yellow diamonds can even cost less than a colorless diamond of similar size.
Is VS1 or VS2 better? ›A VS1 diamond has slightly fewer and smaller inclusions than a VS2 diamond. In other words, a VS1 diamond is slightly better than a VS2 diamond.
What is a good diamond carat size? ›Tip #1: Standard & Average Sizes
The 1.0 carat center stone used to be the most desired size chosen for engagement rings, however, more recently we are seeing this shift towards a slightly larger stone, with couples choosing diamonds averaging 1.25 to 1.50 carats.
0.70 Carats
A sweet spot in the compromise between size and price, diamonds around the 0.70-ct mark make great engagement ring stones. A diamond budget of about $2,000 can get you a fine diamond at this weight.
Princess-Cut Diamonds
The square-shaped princess cut diamond comes second in popularity. Although square-shaped diamonds have roots going back centuries, the princess cut itself is a relative newcomer to the engagement ring market.
Are Marquise diamonds out of style? ›
Marquise Diamond is Out of Style
Way back when, King Louis XV decided he needed a diamond shaped like the lips of his mistress, and thus the marquise was born. Historical precedent aside, however, the marquise diamond has hung back from the popular diamond shape crowd.
Round Cut. Brides everywhere flock to round-cut diamonds. Considering that its shape maximizes the fire of the diamond at the proper reflection of light, it's no surprise that this is the reigning stone (we're all guilty of falling for a good sparkle).
Which is the No 1 diamond? ›The Cullinan Diamond is the largest gem-quality rough diamond ever found, weighing 3,106 carats (621.20 g), discovered at the Premier No. 2 mine in Cullinan, South Africa, on 26 January 1905. It was named after Thomas Cullinan, the owner of the mine.
Which diamond is sparkliest? ›The most brilliant, or sparkliest, diamond cut is the round brilliant cut. Round brilliant stones are cut to have 58 facets (including the culet), allowing light to enter the diamond and reflect off of every facet to create a beautiful sparkle.
What looks most like a real diamond? ›Currently, lab-made cubic zirconia (CZ) is the most popular diamond lookalike. At a fraction of the price, it can rival diamond in brilliance (the light it reflects) and dispersion or fire (the colorful flashes that seem to come from within the stone).
What is the best cut to get in a diamond? ›1. ROUND BRILLIANT DIAMOND. By far the most popular cut is the Round Brilliant, with it's fifty-seven perfectly aligned facets it's brilliance really does out-shine the others. Total internal reflection is the key here; light travels through the stone giving optimum sparkle and scintillation.
What ring setting gives the most sparkle? ›Halo Ring Settings
This is one of the many reasons why this ring setting is so popular. Not only does it add to the overall sparkle of the engagement ring, but a halo also works with just about any fancy-shaped diamond.
The number one setting for the round cut diamond ring is the classic round solitaire, or 4 prong setting. As well as being simple and elegant, the solitaire setting allows the most light possible to enter the stone, which allows it to sparkle to the maximum of its potential.
What setting makes a diamond look smaller? ›One of the designs that won't flatter the center stone is a multistone or 3-stone design with big sized sidestones. Personally, I think the sidestones make the center diamond appear smaller due to their blended look. This takes the limelight away from the main diamond.
Which C makes a diamond sparkle? ›Cut. Cut is the most visible because it's what makes each diamond sparkle, and influences your diamond's shape. Cut refers to a diamond's proportions, finish, symmetry and polish.
Is ideal cut better than excellent? ›
A diamond considered by GIA to have an Excellent Cut could, by AGS' standards, have an Ideal, Excellent, Very Good, or even Good grade. Basically, 'Excellent' is the highest grade according to GIA, and 'Ideal' is the highest according to AGS.
What is the most difficult diamond cut? ›Being one of the most difficult diamond shapes to cut, the eye-catching Heart shaped diamond is made up of between 56 to 58 facets and is beautiful to see. Nothing says “I love you” like a romantic heart shaped diamond with a brilliant cut.
Do Pear shaped diamonds sparkle? ›Yes! Pear diamonds are “brilliant” cut diamonds, meaning they have triangular and kite shaped facets all over the place. That means they sparkle like crazy! Because the bottom of a Pear is designed like a Round (the shape with the most sparkle) Pears get a huge boost of brilliance sparkle.
Why is Princess Cut more expensive? ›Diamond cutters lose more of the rough diamond when they create square-shaped princess cuts, so these diamonds are more expensive than rectangular princess cuts.
Do oval diamonds sparkle as much as round? ›Oval diamonds are typically cut with 57-58 facets, so have the potential to deliver just as much sparkle as a round diamond. To caption this concept of brilliance, diamond laboratories such as the GIA have come up with a grading scale to rate the brilliance of a diamond.
Which property of diamond makes it sparkle? ›The refractive index of diamonds is extremely high which is responsible for the sparkling of diamonds.
Do pear shaped diamonds sparkle? ›Yes! Pear diamonds are “brilliant” cut diamonds, meaning they have triangular and kite shaped facets all over the place. That means they sparkle like crazy! Because the bottom of a Pear is designed like a Round (the shape with the most sparkle) Pears get a huge boost of brilliance sparkle.
Why are oval diamonds so popular right now? ›Oval diamonds create an illusion of larger carat size, particularly for those considering budget. They are a fancy cut that looks so beautiful and immediately captures attention. Hence, for so many reasons, this ring is gaining popularity and has become the topmost favourite choice of celebrities in recent years.
Is a 3 carat oval diamond too big? ›According to most diamond experts, anything over 2 carats is considered significantly big. So yes, 3-carat diamonds fit into the category of 'huge' diamonds.
What makes a diamond very shiny? ›Refraction and dispersion are the reasons why the light ray travels through the diamond. Diamond acts like a tiny complicated prism through which the light ray travels at different angles and gives a shiny appearance.
What makes a diamond sparkle rainbow? ›
Real diamonds sparkle rainbow colors when their light is deflected to other surfaces. In other words, colors shoot from the diamond when the direct light hits the stone. This flash of colors from a diamond is called “fire.” Of course, brilliant multicolor sparks are appealing to most jewelry lovers.
Why not to buy a pear shaped diamond? ›Next to the cushion cut, pear shaped diamonds are consistently inconsistent. They're short and stubby, too stretched out with flat sides, their supposed-to-be-smooth curves are lumpy and bumpy, or they're rocking the world's cheesiest bow tie.
What color in a diamond gives the most sparkle? ›Color also has a big impact on the sparkle produced by a diamond. Because diamonds reflect white light, colorless diamonds produce the best sparkle and fire. In fact, the more color a diamond has, the less likely it is to reflect white light.
How many carats should an engagement ring be? ›One of the decisions to be made when considering the purchase of an engagement ring is how many carats should the ring be? The average according to The Knot (a research company and website for all things wedding) is 1 to 2 carats. There is no rule. Developing a budget is always a good place to start.