When searching for the perfect diamond, one of the most important things to consider is the diamond shape, or cut. While many use the terms "shape" and "cut" interchangeably, they actually refer to different things. Cut refers to how well the diamond is proportioned and faceted, which affects its sparkle and brilliance. Shape, on the other hand, refers to the diamond's outline and silhouette.
The Classic Shapes
Round Brilliant. The most popular and timeless choice, the round brilliant diamond is known for its exceptional sparkle and light reflection. Its 58 facets are engineered to maximize brilliance, making it the most forgiving shape for slight imperfections.
Oval. An elegant elongated version of the round brilliant, oval diamonds appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight. They're sophisticated and work beautifully in both classic and contemporary settings.
Pear. The romantic pear shape combines the best of round and marquise, offering a unique silhouette. It's flattering on the hand and creates an elongated, elegant appearance.
Cushion. With its soft, rounded corners and larger facets, the cushion cut offers a romantic, vintage appeal while still providing excellent sparkle. This shape has been a favorite for over a century.
Princess. A square-cut diamond with sharp corners and brilliant faceting, the princess cut offers a modern, geometric look while maintaining exceptional sparkle and brightness. It's a popular choice for contemporary engagement rings.
Modern & Contemporary Shapes
Emerald. With its step facets and rectangular shape, the emerald cut emphasizes clarity and offers a sophisticated, art deco aesthetic. It shows inclusions more readily, so clarity is important with this shape.
Marquise. The marquise shape is elongated and pointed at both ends, creating a flattering silhouette that makes the diamond appear larger. This regal cut has a vintage charm and offers excellent sparkle.
Radiant. Combining the elegance of emerald with the sparkle of round brilliant, the radiant cut is a versatile choice that works beautifully in any setting and is very forgiving on clarity.
Asscher. The Asscher cut is a square-shaped diamond with larger step facets, similar to an emerald cut but more compact. Known for its vintage Art Deco appeal, it emphasizes clarity and offers a unique geometric sparkle pattern. This sophisticated shape is perfect for those who appreciate classic, architectural designs.
Baguette. The baguette is a small, rectangular diamond often used as accent stones. With its clean lines and subtle sparkle, it complements larger center stones beautifully and adds elegance to halo and three-stone designs.
Heart. A symbol of love, the heart-shaped diamond is romantic and distinctive. It's a bold choice that requires excellent clarity and symmetry to truly shine, making it perfect for those who want to express deep emotion.
Finding Your Perfect Shape
The best diamond shape is the one that speaks to you personally. Consider your lifestyle, personal style, and how the diamond will look on your hand. At LUCCÈ, we're here to help you explore different shapes and find the one that feels right.
Ready to see these shapes in person? Browse our collection or schedule a consultation with our diamond experts.