Diamond Shapes


Brilliant Cut

The classic brilliant cut diamond has been mathematically developed over the last century to optimise the refraction of light around the diamond, in order to achieve  maximum fire and brilliance.  By far the most popular and versatile diamond shape, the brilliant cut diamond has a total of 57 facets.  The most important factor to consider when buying a brilliant cut diamond is the cut. The better the diamond cut, the more fire and brilliance it will have.

Princess Cut

Developed in the 1970’s the princess cut is traditionally square with pointed corners. With more facets and light dispersion than any other square diamond it is the most popular of the fancy shaped diamonds.  When choosing a princess cut diamond find the proportions that are right for you. A length to width ratio for a square princess cut is between 1 and 1.05.  For a more rectangular shape pick a diamond with greater length to width ratio than 1.10. It is sometimes referred to by its technical name: the square or rectangular modified brilliant cut.

Emerald Cut

The emerald cut is often referred to as a step cut due to its linear facets.  When viewed from above they resemble stairs. The emerald cut is rectangular in shape with cropped corners.  This cut was designed for a more understated elegance and to accentuate its lustre.  Its large open table highlights the clarity; so when choosing your emerald cut, consider the higher clarity grades with characteristics not visible to the naked eye.  The emerald cut diamond was highly favoured in the art deco period and is still a popular choice for engagement rings.

Asscher Cut

The asscher cut also has step cut facets and is sometimes referred to as the ‘square emerald cut’. It is square in shape with cropped corners and was first introduced in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland.  This diamond cut tends to have more lustre than other octagon shaped diamonds and is favoured for its clean lines.  Like the emerald cut it has an open table, so when buying your asscher cut we recommend you choose a stone with one of the higher clarity grades to ensure that your diamond is eye-clean.

Marquise Cut

The marquise cut is believed to have been commissioned by Louis XIV to resemble the lips of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour.  Also known as the Navette cut it has an elongated oval shape with pointed ends. Its shape can maximise carat weight, making the stone appear larger than it actually is. This diamond cut is flattering to the finger when worn lengthways.  Proportion is key when buying a marquise cut.


The oval is a modern take on the classic brilliant cut. It is cut in a similar fashion to captivate maximum fire and brilliance.  Its rounded elongated shape optimises the carat weight, creating the illusion of being larger than it actually is. This diamond shape was developed in the 1960’s by Lazare Kaplan and is commonly paired with brilliant cuts, pear shapes and marquise cut diamonds. When choosing your oval focus on the diamonds proportions to ensure you purchase a stone with life and sparkle. This cut is extremely flattering to your hand when set lengthways down your finger.

Pear Shape



The pear shape has a feminine charm with one end rounded and the other finishing in a point. Also from the same family as the brilliant cut, it offers bewitching brilliance. It is sometimes referred to as a teardrop and particularly suits being worn as a ring or pendant.  It is personal preference whether to have the point facing towards or away from you, making the pear shape an interesting and versatile stone to wear.  As with the oval and marquise cut diamonds, the proportions of the diamond are significant in achieving maximum brilliance.

Radiant Cut

The radiant cut combines the fire of a princess cut and the shape of an emerald cut, and can be square or rectangular in shape.  Its technical name is a cut cornered rectangular or square modified brilliant cut, and was created in the 1970’s by World War II veteran, Henry Gosbard.  A Radiant cut diamond carries a lot of weight in its depth to achieve the optimum brilliance. It looks stunning worn as an engagement ring. Due to its dazzling fire the radiant cut hides impurities efficiently, so when looking for your stone you can focus on finding a diamond with a higher colour and a larger carat weight.

Cushion Cut

The cushion cut acquired its name by being square or rectangular in shape with rounded corners thus resembling the shape of a pillow. The cushion cut is known for its deep cut and large facets which maximise its brilliance and reveal its true beauty.  It was first developed in the 19th century and is often found in antique pieces of jewellery.  The cushion cut diamond has evolved alongside cutting techniques, and variations now include the modern cushion cut with its extra row of facets.  This contemporary cut is sometimes referred to as a cushion cut modified brilliant cut.  If you are looking for a rare old cut cushion then a high clarity is recommended. If you are searching for a modern cushion cut, then colour and proportion is important.

Heart Shape


The rare heart shape diamond is an extremely complex cut which requires great skill.  It is effectively cut the same as the pear shape but with a cleft cut into its top.  It is the ultimate symbol of love and romance.  This distinctive cut stands out from the crowd with its unique shape and enchanting brilliance. It looks particularly stunning worn as a pendant or in an engagement ring. When purchasing a heart shape diamond pay attention to the cut and proportion of the stone for maximum impact.