Round
 |
This shape has set the standard for all other diamond shapes,
and accounts for more than 75% of diamonds sold today. Its 58-facet cut
is calibrated through a precise formula to achieve the maximum in fire and
brilliance. |
Princess
 |
This is a square or rectangular cut with numerous sparkling
facets. It is a relatively new cut and often finds its way into solitaire
engagement rings. Flattering to a hand with long fingers, it is often embellished
with triangular stones at its sides. |
Emerald
 |
This is a rectangular shape with cut corners. It is known
as a step cut because its concentric broad, flat planes resemble stair steps. |
Oval
 |
This is an even, perfectly symmetrical design popular among
women with small hands or short fingers. Its elongated shape gives a flattering
illusion of length to the hand. |
Pear
 |
This hybrid cut, combining the best of the oval and the marquise,
is shaped most like a sparkling teardrop. It also belongs to that category
of diamond whose design most complements a hand with small or average-length
fingers. It is particularly beautiful for pendants or earrings. |
| Cushion |
The cushion-cut is a deep cut with large facets, an open bottom, and rounded corners. The depth of this cut encourages the eye to travel around the inside the stone. The facets create a high degree of returning light, making the cushion-cut one of the most brilliant and sparkling diamond cuts. |
Marquise
 |
An elongated shape with pointed ends inspired by the fetching
smile of the Marquise de Pompadour and commissioned by the Sun King, France's
Louis XIV, who wanted a diamond to match it. It is gorgeous when used as
a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller diamonds. |
Heart
 |
This ultimate symbol of romance is essentially a pear-shaped
diamond with a cleft at the top. The skill of the cutter determines the
beauty of the cut. Look for a stone with an even shape and a well-defined
outline. |
| Trillion/Trilliant |
This is a spectacular wedge of brittle fire. First developed
in Amsterdam, the exact design can vary depending on a particular diamond's
natural characteristics and the cutter's personal preferences. It is definitely
for the adventurous. |
Radiant
 |
This square or rectangular cut combines the elegance of the
emerald shape diamond with the brilliance of the round, and its facets maximize
the effect of its color refraction. |
| Cabochon |
This is a modification to the gemstone face that creates a highly polished, convex-cut, unfaceted gem that is smooth to the touch. |
