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Discover how the interplay of facets in each diamond shape influences its brilliance and sparkle, with GOODSTONES guide. Learn about the different diamond shapes, and the role ratio plays on forming their unique silhouette to make an informed choice for your perfect diamond.
The term "diamond shape" refers to a diamond’s physical form and visual attributes. It is the distinct geometric appearance of the stone that influences its brilliance and visual appeal. When searching for an engagement ring, diamond shape is the primary attribute considered. Some of the more traditional diamond shapes include round and emerald, however today we see an increasing number of individuals are attracted to fancy-shaped diamonds like the pear, asscher, and oval.
Round diamonds, the most traditional shape, boast uniform symmetry with precisely cut brilliant facets, totaling over 56, for unparalleled sparkle.
Radiant diamonds, a captivating hybrid of emerald and round shapes, offer a modern allure with trimmed corners and a dazzling play of light.
A captivating twist on the classic round brilliant, this elongated shape can create the illusion of larger size while exhibiting a similar fire and brilliance. Oval diamonds are highly versatile and remarkably elegant.
Cushion diamonds, distinguished by soft, rounded edges, carry a timeless, romantic charm rooted in centuries of refinement. Available in elongated and square silhouettes.
Emerald diamonds, cherished for their elegance, emphasize the stone's clarity with a shallow pavilion and rectangular facets, offering a refined reflective shimmer.
Asscher diamonds, similar to emeralds, feature a square shape with cut corners, blending chic contemporary style with vintage appeal.
Pear diamonds, tapering to a point like a teardrop, flatter fingers and showcase their distinctive sparkle akin to oval shaped stones.
Marquise diamonds, with dramatic pointed ends and a curved middle, maximize perceived size while offering timeless, regal elegance.
Princess diamonds, featuring four-pointed corners and more than 70 facets, exude a contemporary yet classic sparkle, perfect for a touch of brilliance.
The diamond's shape pertains to its silhouette, defining the external outline of the stone – it's what you see when you look at it. Diamond cut is a more intricate aspect, referring to the precise balance of proportion, symmetry, and polish achieved during the diamond cutting process. It's important to understand the difference between diamond shape and diamond cut, even though many jewelers use these terms interchangeably.
While it's easy to spot the shape just by looking at the diamond's outline, recognizing a well-cut diamond takes a trained eye. The cut is crucial because it affects how the diamond reflects light and sparkles. Gem experts evaluate the cut using seven factors: brightness, sparkle, overall appearance, size in relation to weight, durability, smoothness, and symmetry. These factors combine to determine how the diamond looks when light hits it. Learn more about these intricacies in our Diamond Cut Guide.
The length-to-width ratio of a diamond is essential because it directly impacts how the diamond appears and the overall look of your ring. A ratio of 1 indicates a perfectly symmetrical diamond, while ratios above 1 create elongated diamonds that cover more of your finger. Longer ratios can create an illusion of slender fingers and complement larger hands, while shorter ratios may be more suitable for petite fingers.
Nevertheless, there's no specific ratio you must adhere to; it's a matter of personal preference and how you want your diamonds to appear in your jewelry. Ultimately, you can choose the ratio that best suits your individual style and aesthetic preferences.
