From timeless rounds to daring marquises, each shape speaks its own language. We’ll walk you through the most popular diamond shapes and how they pair with different settings and styles so you can find the one that’s perfect for you.
Popular Diamond Shapes Explained
Diamonds may share the same brilliance, but their shapes bring out different sides of their personality. From timeless classics to bold, modern shapes, the one you choose can set the tone for your entire look.
Round Brilliant: Timeless Sparkle
The round brilliant diamond is the most popular shape for a reason. With 58 meticulously arranged facets, this classic shape is designed to maximize light reflection, giving it an unparalleled sparkle that captures every angle of light. Its symmetrical shape is beloved for its versatility, pairing beautifully with everything from classic solitaires to intricate halo settings.
Cushion: Soft, Romantic Glow
The cushion shape, with its softly rounded corners and larger facets, offers a unique blend of vintage allure and modern sophistication. Known for its pillow-like shape and romantic glow, this design showcases a diamond’s clarity and enhances its fire, making it a favorite for those who cherish timeless beauty with a touch of whimsy.
Pear: Graceful and Refined
The pear shape features a rounded end that tapers to a single point, creating a teardrop silhouette that naturally elongates the finger. It blends softness with elegance, offering a timeless look that’s both delicate and striking.
Marquise: Bold and Dramatic
With its pointed ends and curved sides, the marquise cut delivers a dramatic, elongated shape that commands attention. It flatters the hand with a vintage-inspired flair and brings a sense of bold sophistication to any setting.
Oval: Elegant and Eye-Catching
Oval-shaped diamonds combine the brilliance of a round diamond with a lengthening silhouette that flatters the finger. Their elongated shape offers a soft, elegant presence that feels timeless but modern.
Emerald: Refined and Architectural
With its hall-of-mirrors effect and sleek step cuts, the emerald shape is loved for its clean lines and refined sparkle.
Radiant: Bold and Brilliant
Radiant-shaped diamonds offer the fire of a round brilliant with the structure of a rectangular or square outline.
Asscher: Vintage and Glamorous
The Asscher diamond shape evokes the elegance of the Art Deco era. With deep step cuts and a square silhouette, it draws the eye inward like a hall of mirrors.
How Diamond Shape Influences Style
While diamond shape is often the first thing that catches your eye, it’s also one of the most powerful ways to express your style. Understanding how each shape pairs with different settings and styles helps you design a piece that’s as unique as you are.
Pairing Shape with Ring Settings
The right setting can elevate your diamond’s shape, highlighting its best features and reflecting your personal style. A round brilliant, for example, looks stunning in a classic solitaire setting, where its symmetrical sparkle truly shines. For a more contemporary look, an emerald diamond pairs beautifully with a sleek, modern band, adding architectural intrigue to your ring.
No matter which shape you choose, exploring different setting styles at Greenwich St. Jewelers’ Create Your Ring page opens up a world of customization options.
Diamond Shape FAQs
When it comes to choosing the perfect diamond shape, it’s natural to have questions. Below, we answer some of the most common inquiries to help you feel confident in your choice.
What Are the Most Popular Diamond Shapes?
Round brilliant remains the most popular shape, thanks to its unparalleled sparkle and timeless appeal. Other favorites include the cushion, pear shape, and marquise, each offering a unique look and personality.
What Diamond Shape Looks the Biggest?
Shapes with elongated silhouettes, like oval, marquise, and pear, often appear larger than their carat weight suggests. Their length-to-width ratio can create an illusion of size, making them a popular choice for those who want maximum presence.
How Do I Choose a Diamond Shape?
Consider your personal style, lifestyle, and how you’ll wear your piece.
What Does Diamond Shape Say About Your Style?
Your diamond shape is an expression of your individuality. Round shapes suggest timeless elegance, cushions embrace romantic charm, and marquise or pears speak to a flair for the dramatic.
