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What is diamond shape?


Diamond shape refers to the geometric outline of a diamond when viewed from above. Diamonds can be cut into a wide variety of unique shapes, each with their own set of characteristics.

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While not technically apart of the "4Cs", shape is generally one of the top considerations when shopping for diamond jewelry or engagement rings.

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The round diamond shape is the most popular and iconic diamond cut, while the other diamond shapes are referred to as the "fancy shapes". The fancy shapes or cuts include princess, oval, pear, marquise, emerald, radiant, heart, and asscher.

Learn more about diamond shapes


Let's take a look at each diamond shape and what makes them each unique.

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Round diamonds


Round diamonds, also known as round brilliants, are the most popular diamond shape and are known for their classic and timeless appeal. They have a circular shape with 58 facets, or small flat surfaces, that are precisely cut to optimize the diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation.

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Round diamonds have the most potential to reflect light because of their numerous facets, which are placed in a way that allows for optimal light performance.

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Round diamonds are versatile and can be set in a variety of settings, from solitaire to halo to three-stone settings. They also tend to have a higher price per carat compared to other diamond shapes, as they require a larger amount of the rough diamond to be cut away in order to achieve the perfect proportions and symmetry.

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Princess diamonds


Princess cut diamonds are a square-shaped diamond cut that is known for its sharp corners and brilliant sparkle. This diamond cut was first introduced in the 1960s, and quickly became popular due to its modern and elegant appearance.

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Princess cut diamonds have a square or rectangular shape, and are typically cut with 57 or 76 facets. The facets are arranged in a way that maximizes the diamond's brilliance and fire, and makes it a popular choice for engagement rings and other diamond jewelry.

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One of the advantages of the princess cut is that it tends to have a larger face-up appearance than other diamond cuts of the same carat weight, due to its shape and the way the facets are arranged. This makes it a popular choice for those who want a larger looking diamond without having to pay for a higher carat weight.

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Oval diamonds


Oval diamonds are a popular diamond shape that has an elongated, oval shape and a brilliant sparkle. Oval diamonds typically have 56 to 58 facets, which are arranged in a way that maximizes the diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation. The elongated shape of the oval diamond makes it appear larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight, making it a popular choice for those who want a larger looking diamond without having to pay for a higher carat weight.

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One of the advantages of oval diamonds is that they can make the finger appear longer and more slender, due to the elongated shape of the diamond. However, it is important to choose a well-proportioned oval diamond, as an improperly cut diamond can appear to have a "bow-tie" effect, which is a dark area in the center of the diamond.

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Pear diamonds


Pear shaped diamonds, also known as teardrop diamonds, are a unique and elegant diamond shape that combines the classic round brilliant cut with the elegant and elongated shape of a marquise cut. The pear shape is a hybrid cut that creates a diamond with a rounded end on one side and a pointed end on the other side.

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Pear shaped diamonds typically have 58 to 71 facets, which are arranged in a way that maximizes the diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation. The elongated shape of the pear diamond makes it appear larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight, making it a popular choice for those who want a larger looking diamond without having to pay for a higher carat weight.

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One of the advantages of pear shaped diamonds is their versatility. They can be set in a variety of settings, including solitaire, halo, and three-stone settings. They are also a popular choice for vintage-inspired and romantic styles, as the teardrop shape of the diamond has a soft and romantic appeal.

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Cushion diamonds


Cushion shaped diamonds, also known as pillow cut diamonds, are a vintage-inspired diamond shape that combines the classic appeal of the round brilliant cut with the soft, rounded edges of a square or rectangular shape. This diamond shape has been around for over 200 years and has recently regained popularity as a unique and elegant choice for engagement rings and other diamond jewelry.

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Cushion shaped diamonds typically have 58 facets, which are arranged in a way that maximizes the diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation. The soft, rounded edges of the diamond give it a vintage and romantic appeal, while the numerous facets enhance the diamond's sparkle and brilliance.

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Marquise diamonds


Marquise shaped diamonds are a classic and elegant diamond shape with a distinctive elongated, boat-shaped design that tapers to a point on both ends. This diamond shape has been around for over 300 years and is known for its striking and regal appearance.

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Marquise shaped diamonds typically have 56 to 58 facets, which are arranged in a way that maximizes the diamond's brilliance, fire, and scintillation. The elongated shape of the diamond makes it appear larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight, making it a popular choice for those who want a larger looking diamond without having to pay for a higher carat weight.

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Emerald diamonds


Emerald shaped diamonds, also known as step cut diamonds, are a classic diamond shape with a unique, elongated rectangular design that features a large, open table and stepped facets that run parallel to the girdle of the diamond. This diamond shape has been around for centuries and is known for its clean lines and understated elegance.

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Emerald shaped diamonds typically have 50 to 58 facets, which are arranged in a way that emphasizes the diamond's clarity and color rather than its sparkle and brilliance. The large, open table and stepped facets of the diamond make it appear larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight, making it a popular choice for those who want a larger looking diamond without having to pay for a higher carat weight.

Our most asked questions about diamond shapes