Searching for an engagement ring can feel like stepping into a new world of terminology. One of the most important things you’ll hear about is a diamond’s “cut.” When we talk about diamond cuts, we’re actually referring to two different things: the diamond’s shape, and the grade of its craftsmanship. Understanding the difference is the first step to choosing a ring with a sparkle that will last a lifetime.
The Cut that Matters: Grade versus Shape
First, let's demystify the difference. A diamond’s shape is its outward appearance, such as a round, oval, or cushion. The cut grade, on the other hand, is a measure of how well a diamond has been cut and polished. This is the most important of the 4Cs because it’s what gives a diamond its fire, brilliance, and scintillation (that breathtaking sparkle). A beautifully shaped diamond with a poor cut grade will appear dull and lifeless.
To make this choice simple for you, we only select Ideal to Excellent cut diamonds, ensuring that no matter which shape you fall in love with, the quality is guaranteed to shine.
The Classics: A History of Timeless Shapes
Diamond cuts have a rich history that has evolved over centuries. The Round Brilliant cut is the most famous and popular shape of all time. Developed in the early 20th century, its precise 58 facets were engineered to maximise a diamond’s brilliance, creating a fiery and timeless sparkle that has endured for generations. It is a classic for a reason.
While the Round Brilliant remains a perennial favourite, modern trends have led to a revival and reinvention of other unique and beautiful shapes.
The Modern Era: Celebrity-Inspired Cuts
Today's most sought-after engagement rings are often inspired by the unique choices of cultural icons. These stars have brought a fresh, modern perspective to classic shapes.
Hailey Bieber's Oval Cut
The oval cut has quickly become one of the most popular choices for modern brides. Favoured by style icon Hailey Bieber, this elegant cut is an elongated version of the Round Brilliant. Its shape not only maximises the carat weight, making the diamond appear larger, but it also creates a flattering illusion of longer, more slender fingers.
Zendaya's Elongated Cushion Cut
With its soft, rounded corners and large facets, the elongated cushion cut has a romantic and vintage feel. Zendaya’s show-stopping east-west set engagement ring brought this beautiful shape into the spotlight. It perfectly blends the antique appeal of the cushion cut with the contemporary elegance of an elongated shape, creating a look that is both classic and unique.
Selena Gomez's Marquise Cut
Selena Gomez's marquise cut ring has helped to re-popularise this dramatic and elegant shape. The wide table of a marquise cut gives the clever illusion of a larger carat weight. The marquise cut has a regal, vintage flair and is a fantastic choice for those who want a diamond engagement ring that is both unique and striking.
Dua Lipa's Modern Round Brilliant
Dua Lipa’s engagement ring shows that a classic can always be made modern. While her ring features the timeless Round Brilliant cut, it’s set in a bold, wide cigar band, giving the traditional shape a fresh, contemporary edge. It’s a perfect example of how a unique setting can completely transform a diamond’s style.
A Quick Guide to Popular Diamond Cuts
To help you explore your options, here is a list of some of the most popular diamond cuts for engagement rings:
-
Round Brilliant: The most popular cut, it's famous for its timeless sparkle and incredible fire.
-
Oval: An elegant, modern choice with an elongated shape that can make fingers appear longer and the diamond look larger.
-
Emerald: A sophisticated, rectangular "step-cut" known for its unique "hall of mirrors" effect, which shows off a diamond’s clarity beautifully.
-
Radiant: A vibrant cut that combines the brilliant sparkle of a round diamond with the elegant, straight edges of an emerald cut.
-
Princess: A modern, square cut with a stunning brilliant sparkle, offering a sleek and contemporary look.
-
Marquise: A long, dramatic cut with pointed ends that creates a unique vintage flair and a flattering, slenderising effect.
-
Asscher: A classic, geometric "step-cut" with a square shape and clipped corners, renowned for its hypnotic, art deco style.
-
Cushion: A romantic cut with a soft, pillow-like shape and a beautiful sparkle, combining vintage charm with modern brilliance.
-
Elongated Cushion: A longer, more rectangular version of the cushion cut, providing a graceful and modern twist on the classic.
-
Pear: Also known as a teardrop, this cut is a stunning hybrid of a round and a marquise, creating a feminine and elegant shape.
Ultimately, the choice of your ring's shape is a personal one. While a diamond's cut grade ensures its incredible sparkle, its shape is the expression of your unique style. Learn more about jewellery styles, from classic solitaires to modern multi-stone rings.
Explore our collection of ethical and sustainable lab grown diamond engagement rings to find the shape that tells your story.
