Diamonds are stones that are created in a high-pressure environment, deep inside the earth. When they are created and mined, they look like rough stones, and many don’t have any specific shape. Diamonds have a crystal structure and come in various rough forms or structures. They can be cut and shaped during their processing. Shape and cut and are two different things and not the same. When we say shape, it may mean round, square or a heart shape. When we say cut, it means the dimensions, symmetry, reflective qualities and facets. So, for example, black diamond rings may have a princess cut and be round in shape. The following are some of the most common cuts used in diamonds.
- Princess–Princess cut diamonds have been around since the 1980s and it is the most common name you would have heard. They are cut close to the square shape and are only second in popularity to the round brilliant cut. They work well in any setting and hence are quite popular as engagement rings. The advantage of this is, the yield is higher than other types of cutting. While having more yield, it offers a square outline and the same brilliance as a round cut diamond. The price is also lower than a round brilliant cut.
- Cushion – A cushion cut diamond is oblong with curved edges. This looks quite like a pillow or cushion and hence the name. The stone will have large facets without sharp corners. This cut is used in antique style jewellery and because of the resurgence in demand for vintage pieces, cushion cuts have made a comeback. Cushion cut can be customized into a more square shape or a more rectangular one. The facets can vary basedon the pavilion, unlike other cuts. It can be designed in variations and there is no one standard.
- Round brilliant – Out of all the cut diamonds in the world, round brilliant diamonds make up 75%. A diamond is cut in this way to get the best of its refraction and reflection properties. This cut has the ideal angles for producing fire and brilliance in the stone. Because it is round, it allows for maximum reflection of light. This type of cut has 58 facets. Natural diamonds are not round and a lot of the stone is lost in cutting. That is why round brilliant cuts are quite expensive. Round brilliant diamonds provide an ageless, classic look and hence are a popular option for engagement rings and other fine jewellery. Sapphire engagement rings also go well with this cut.
- Asscher – Asscher is one cut that is patented and is named after its inventor. Introduced in the 1900s, this cut was created by the Asscher brothers from the Asscher Diamond Company of Holland. In their time, the company was famous for cutting a 3,106-carat rough diamond. After the Great Depression, Asscher cuts could only be found in Vintage jewellery stores, but they have made a comeback today. An Asscher cut is quite similar to the emerald but in this case, are done on square stones. There is a high crown and large step facets producing a unique brilliance. It is often referred to as a hallway of reflective mirrors.
- Emerald – The emerald cut, designed originally to cut emeralds has been around for more than 600 years. The current cut is a descendant of the Asscher cut and the cuts are in the form of steps with 58-59 facets. The rectangular emerald cut is a popular choice for engagement rings that need bling and a bold look. It showcases the size better and hence is a well known premium choice.
- Radiant–The radiant cut is relatively new to the jewellery market compared to other cuts. It is a mix between emerald and round cut. There are numerous facets in the crown and pavilion, providing fire and brilliance. Because of the multiple facets they often look like cracked ice and can hide flaws. As such, it is a good choice for those with an active lifestyle. Also, it is very popular for wedding rings hatton garden.
- Baguette – The baguette cut has 24 facets, parallel and comes with clarity. This design includes step cuts and the stone can be center as well as a side piece. The baguette is quite clear and this is why the stone needs to be flawless.
If you want to know more about the shapes and cuts and which ones are complementary to the jewellery piece you are planning, visit a diamond market. There are multiple shops that have designers and craftsman and can guide you well. The UK has Hatton Garden with a good number of jewellers and it is also one of popular jewellery hub across the world with the best skills required.
