Choosing the shape of your diamond jewelry is one of the key

elements in determining the overall appearance of your ring

or other diamond jewelry. There are many shapes and

variations from which to choose, but first off do not

confuse “shape” with “cut”. A diamond’s shape is just that:

the outward appearance of the stone, whether it is round,

oval etc.; while the cut refers to how the diamond itself is

fashioned, how many facets and so on. Below I’ll examine the

various diamond shapes and tell a little about each of them,

in order to help you make that all-important choice.

Round Brilliant Diamonds – By far the most popular,

accounting for more than 75% of diamonds purchased today,

they are also the most expensive. Most coveted as an

engagement ring, they also find their way into earrings and

pendants. Round Brilliant Diamonds are noted for their fire

and brilliance.

Oval Diamonds – A perfectly symmetrical design yields a

large surface area that gives the impression of a much

larger diamond, oval diamonds are favored by women with

smaller hands or shorter fingers, it’s shape giving an

elongated look to the hand.

Princess Cut Diamonds – Though in appearance the smallest of

diamonds, a Princess Cut Diamond is basically an inverted

pyramid which puts most of the carat weight near the bottom.

Princess cut diamonds are most often sought as solitaires,

and are a relatively recent shape.

Marquise Diamonds – Another diamond shape that looks larger

than it actually is, the Marquise diamond is elongated with

points on each end, though sometimes altered to a “French

tip” where the end point is excised. A great choice for a

solitaire.

Emerald Cut – Rectangular with corner cuts, this diamond is

also called a step cut, because of the shape that resembles

stair steps. Large, open facets on this diamond make it

imperative to choose a stone of greater clarity and higher

color, as inclusions and weak color are more noticeable in

this cut.

Pear Shape Diamond – Exactly as it says, this diamond is

pear-shaped, or sometimes reminding one of a teardrop. Most

often found on pendants and earrings.

Heart Shaped Diamonds – A brilliant cut, the heart shaped

diamond is a romantic choice that varies from jeweler to

jeweler as it’s shape can be greatly influenced by the skill

of whimsy of the gem cutter, as well as variable facet

configurations. Seek out a perfectly symmetrical stone.

Trillion Cut Diamonds – A newcomer, born in the late

seventies, this diamond is a triangle stone with equal

sides. These can make stunning earrings.

Baguette Cut Diamonds – Another step cut diamond shape that

is most frequently employed as side stones. Because it has

few facets, quality and color come into play more here as

imperfections become more visible in these uncomplicated,

though elegant diamonds.

Radiant Diamonds – A square or rectangularly shaped diamond,

the Radiant resembles the emerald shape but has 70 facets,

making it much more brilliant and dazzling than the Emerald

shape.

Asscher Cut Diamonds – A rectangular shaped diamond with high

crown step facets, this shape was patented in 1902 and is

know for it’s fire and ability to return light.

Cushion Cut Diamonds – Sometimes referred to as “pillow

cut”, this shape was popular in the 1800′s. Cut with candle

light in mind, (nothing else available at the time!) the

cushion cut is a rectangular/squarish shape, with more than

a touch of old world elegance about it.

Kite, Trapezoid & Half-Moon diamonds – Lesser know shapes

used mainly for side stones.

Choosing the right diamond shape can be more easily

accomplished with a little information and the help of a

professional jeweler. Here’s hoping you find that perfect

diamond!

Keith Thompson is very fond of diamonds, and runs http://www.engagement-ring-deals.info which can help in your search for the perfect diamond engagement ring.

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