Shape

ADVANTAGES

This is a more contemporary choice with a sharp geometric square shape and pyramidal effect. It has a smaller face-up size (what you see when a diamond is mounted in a setting) but its long diagonal measurements creates the illusion of a larger diamond.

DOWNSIDES

It is important to note that the sharp corners of this shape can snag and chip, unless protected by prongs. Inclusions around the edges can also make this more fragile so it’s important to have someone check this before purchasing.

ADVANTAGES

An oval cut diamond is essentially an elongated round brilliant cut. They have all the brilliance of a round diamond but a more unique shape that is a stylish update on the classic. When well cut, it can also look larger than a round diamond because of a bigger face-up area.

DOWNSIDES

All oval cut diamonds have a distinct bowtie pattern at the centre, some more noticeable than others so it depends if this is for you or not. Whilst it can hide inclusions well, it also tends to show colour.

ADVANTAGES

Cushion cut diamonds are shaped like a square, except with cut corners (a cushion). Its unique angles are known for excellent fire. This is actually one of the oldest diamond cuts and so is often thought of as a ‘vintage style’ but it has recently seen a spike in popularity.

DOWNSIDES

The face-up of a cushion-cut diamond is around 8% smaller than that of a round cut. They are also not very forgiving when it comes to colour, so you will need to pay more for a higher colour grade. They do, however, hide inclusions well.

ADVANTAGES

An emerald cut features a rectangular shape and a series of parallel straight facets on each side and corner. They have a different kind of sparkle than the brilliance you would see in a round diamond, reflecting light in a ‘hall of mirrors’ effect. They are also slimming for the finger due to the rectangular shape.

DOWNSIDES

You will easily be able to see any inclusions, they have a face-up size around 5% smaller than rounds and their lack of brilliance may make them appear smaller.

ADVANTAGES

The pear cut diamond is also known as a teardrop and is a classic, vintage cut. They have a larger face-up than round diamonds, which along with their elongated shape makes them appear bigger.

DOWNSIDES

This shape can snag and chip if it doesn’t include prongs, so we recommend always checking first – it’s also important to find out if there are any inclusions at the tip that can weaken the stone. As well as this, pear cut diamonds include a bowtie effect to look out for.

ADVANTAGES

A marquise cut is a low pointed oval with multiple facets (usually 58). Its elongated shape and the fact it has the largest face-up area of all the shapes creates the illusion of a bigger diamond and slimmer finger. They also hide inclusions well.

DOWNSIDES

Its tapered points are vulnerable and need to be protected to avoid snagging or chipping. You also need to look out for a bowtie effect and lack of symmetry.

ADVANTAGES

Asscher cuts are similar to the emerald cut, except with a square shape, it features large step facets and a high crown. The windmill pattern creates an art deco feel that is perfect for those wanting something more classic.

DOWNSIDES

It has the smallest face-up area of all the fancy cuts and doesn’t hide inclusions well.

ADVANTAGES

Heart-shaped diamonds have long since been a symbol of eternal love and have remained popular since the 1500s. They were often exchanged between royal families as a sign of goodwill.

DOWNSIDES

The tip is prone to snagging and chipping so you need to make sure it is protected by a prong.

ADVANTAGES

A radiant cut is typically a rectangular-shaped diamond with a brilliant facet pattern on the crown and pavilion. It is one of the most sparkling cuts possible and with an elongated shape that can seem larger than a round diamond. It also can hide inclusions well.

DOWNSIDES

It has a small face-up size, compared to other shapes.

ADVANTAGES

This is a diamond that's cut into a triangular shape, with three sides of equal length and a flat table at its surface. Its face-up is around 12% larger than rounds, meaning it works as a bold centre stone, although popularly used as side stones.

DOWNSIDES

Large sizes are difficult to find and their corners can snag and chip.