Diamond Shapes: The Complete Guide to Every Diamond Cut
There are so many diamond shapes and diamond cuts in the world, and every single one of them behaves differently once it's set in a ring. Some scatter light in every direction. Some hold it still, like water in a glass.
Each one creates a different aesthetic on the hand, carries its own anatomy, and comes with its own pros and cons, which means knowing about all the popular diamond shapes and cuts isn't just nice trivia. It's a genuinely thoughtful approach to buying an engagement ring.
This guide is going to teach you an entire book's worth of diamond shapes and diamond cuts in about 20 minutes. So stay with it, keep reading, and find the perfect diamond shape for your next ring purchase.
Diamond Shape Vs Cut Style
Diamond shape and cut sound like the same thing, and so much digital content makes it more confusing for you. But remember, they're not the same thing.
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A diamond's shape describes its outline, like round, oval, pear, square.
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A diamond’s cut style describes how the facets are made inside that outline to interact with light.
This is why a jeweler might describe a diamond as a "cushion cut with brilliant facets". This means the diamond has a cushion shape and it has a brilliant type of facets.
Brilliant Cut Vs Step Cut
Almost every diamond you will look at falls into only two categories of diamond faceting: a brilliant cut diamond and a step cut diamond.
A brilliant cut diamond has small, triangular and kite-like facets, which are huge in number. Because these facets are small and huge in number, light gets into the diamond and bounces back and forth until it explodes out of the stone, making it illuminate a lot. Brilliant facets are generally made in round, oval, pear, princess, heart, and marquise diamonds.
A step cut diamond has larger, staircase-like facets. Because the facets are large and arranged in parallel lines, you can see inside the stone easily, which is called a hall of mirrors effect. Diamonds with step cut facets do not sparkle as much as diamonds with brilliant cuts. Step cut facets are generally made on emerald, asscher, and baguette diamonds.
How Diamond Shape Affects Appearance
Each diamond shape drastically influences the overall appearance of the ring. Just imagine you have two diamonds of the same size, one round and one oval, and you tell your jeweler to make two engagement rings using them, in the same solitaire ring style, using the same kind of metal. You will notice that the final rings will be completely different from each other.
The round diamond ring will look traditional and classic, while the one with the oval will look a bit fancier and will make your finger look longer. A heart-shaped ring will make you feel romantic, whereas one with an emerald cut will make you feel part of history. So what this means is that each diamond shape creates a ring with a different appearance and aesthetic, but that is not all. The facet styling used in the stone of the ring has its own influence too.
How Cut Style Affects Appearance
If diamond shape is the silhouette, then cut style is the personality living inside it. If you have the same shape of two diamonds, assume they both have round shapes, but one with brilliant faceting and another with step cut faceting; now, when you have rings made using them, the ring with brilliant cut facets will obviously sparkle a lot, and the one with step cut facets will sparkle less. But apart from that, there is one secret lesson to learn as well in terms of how diamond cuts affect appearance.
Secret lesson:
Brilliant cut diamonds make color less noticeable with their sparkle, and step cut diamonds make color pop up because of less sparkle. So if you want a colorless diamond to look its best, prefer brilliant cut stones. Brilliant cuts also do not let inclusions become visible to the naked eye as easily, whereas the large facets of a step cut stone can make some inclusions appear. So if you want to buy a step cut stone, you will have to go with higher clarity.
How Diamond Shape Affects Perceived Size
One more thing which is amazing about diamond shapes is how a stone with the same weight and a different shape can look wildly different in size once it's set on a finger. You know, carat weight measures mass, not the size of the diamond. Elongated diamonds, which have an extended shape such as oval, marquise, or pear, spread their weight across a longer, narrower silhouette. This extra surface coverage makes them look bigger than their actual size.
Popular Diamond Shapes and Cut Styles
Okay, so here we are; now we're going to unfold the most popular diamond shapes right now, but before that, we want you to be clear on one thing: there is no best diamond shape out there. As we discussed, some shapes are built for sparkle, some for a vintage feel, some for a modern aesthetic, so we are not here to tell you which shape is better or best.
We will instead let you know the pros and cons and the unique characteristics of each shape, and you are the one who will eventually decide which one out of these 17 is for you. We will tell you how to choose the one for you, but before that, let's see the famous diamond shapes.
Round Brilliant Diamond

If you've ever pictured a diamond engagement ring in your mind, chances are you imagined a round brilliant diamond. It's the shape that has dominated engagement rings for generations and is often used as the benchmark for comparing every other diamond shape. There is one more interesting thing about it. The round brilliant is the only diamond shape that the GIA officially grades for cut quality, from Excellent to Poor. That's because its proportions have been studied and refined for decades to produce as much sparkle as possible.
Pros
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Performs exceptionally well under almost every type of lighting, from daylight to candlelight.
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Masks fingerprints, dust, and everyday grime better than most fancy shapes because of its intense sparkle.
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Has no weak corners or pointed tips, making it one of the most durable center stones for daily wear.
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The standardized cut makes it easier to compare diamonds across different retailers.
Cons
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Since it's the most common shape, it may feel less distinctive to buyers looking for something unique.
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Small differences in cut precision can noticeably affect brilliance, even when two diamonds share the same grading report.
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Its perfectly symmetrical outline leaves little room to visually disguise poor proportions.
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Because demand is consistently high, you often pay a premium compared to fancy shapes of similar quality.
Oval Shape Diamond

Oval diamonds have become one of the fastest-growing engagement ring trends in recent years. They offer almost the same brilliance as a round diamond but with a longer silhouette that makes the stone appear larger. If you want a diamond that feels timeless yet modern, the oval is one of the easiest shapes to fall in love with.
Pros
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The elongated outline naturally draws attention away from wider knuckles, making hands appear more balanced.
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A slight bow-tie effect can actually add depth and character rather than reducing beauty when it's subtle.
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Looks noticeably larger in bezel settings than many other diamond shapes because more of its outline remains visible.
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Offers a softer, more organic appearance than geometric shapes while maintaining impressive brilliance.
Cons
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Two oval diamonds with identical grading reports can look dramatically different because proportions vary widely.
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Rotating the ring slightly on the finger is more noticeable than with round diamonds due to its elongated shape.
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An overly elongated oval may appear narrow instead of elegant, especially on shorter fingers.
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Poorly cut ovals can show uneven brightness, with one side appearing darker than the other.
Pear Shaped Diamond

The pear-shaped diamond combines a rounded end with a pointed tip, creating an elegant teardrop silhouette. It has the brilliance of a round diamond but with a personality of its own. Whether worn with the point facing up or down, a pear diamond stands out immediately and gives an engagement ring a unique appearance.
Pros
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Can be worn in two different orientations, allowing the ring to have a completely different visual personality.
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The rounded end makes the diamond appear softer and more elegant than other pointed shapes.
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Creates excellent finger coverage without requiring a large carat weight.
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Works beautifully in asymmetrical and contemporary engagement ring designs.
Cons
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Even slight asymmetry becomes obvious because the human eye naturally compares both sides of the teardrop.
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The pointed tip can collect dust more easily, making regular cleaning especially important.
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If the point is too long or too short, the diamond may lose its graceful teardrop appearance.
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Matching pear-shaped side stones for custom designs can be more challenging than with round diamonds.
Marquise Cut Diamond

The marquise diamond has a romantic history behind it. It is said that a French king ordered his diamond cutter to create a diamond shape that imitated the shape of his queen's lips. This almond-like diamond shape is one of the longest among the popular diamond shapes and covers the widest finger area for the same carat weight. The marquise is also an especially cool shape for an east-west engagement ring.
Pros
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Offers one of the highest face-up sizes per carat, helping buyers maximize visual impact without increasing budget.
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Naturally directs the eye along the finger, creating one of the strongest slimming effects of any diamond shape.
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Its pointed silhouette gives even simple solitaire rings a dramatic, high-fashion appearance.
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Can be set north-south or east-west for two completely different design aesthetics.
Cons
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Because the tips are narrow, the diamond may appear visually unbalanced if the setting isn't perfectly centered.
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Slight twisting of the ring on the finger is more noticeable due to its long, pointed shape.
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The elongated outline can catch on clothing more often than rounded diamond shapes if the setting sits high.
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Poor symmetry is immediately noticeable, even to someone with no gemological knowledge.
Cushion Cut Diamond

The cushion cut diamond, as the name suggests, has a pillow-like silhouette, where all four sides are slightly curved, and the four corners are rounded. It is often considered a hybrid shape that combines the softness of a round diamond with the overall outline of a princess cut. A standard cushion cut diamond usually has a 1:1 length-to-width ratio, giving it a perfectly square appearance. But there's another popular variation as well. It has a length-to-width ratio of around 1.30:1 or more, giving it a longer rectangular shape. This version is known as the elongated cushion cut diamond and has become a favorite choice among many celebrities.
Pros
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Creates a clean, sophisticated look without overpowering the center stone.
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Long straight lines make rings appear sleek and elegant.
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Ideal for minimalist engagement ring designs.
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Pairs beautifully with emerald and Asscher cuts.
Cons
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Minimal brilliance compared to brilliant-cut diamonds.
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Color mismatches are more noticeable.
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Limited use as a center stone.
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Chips along the corners can affect appearance quickly.
Princess Cut Diamond

This is the first diamond shape on the list with a perfectly square outline. Until now, all the diamond shapes we've discussed have had curved edges, but this one is flat on all four sides. Though princess cut diamonds don't make the most traditional engagement rings, they are definitely popular for wedding bands, eternity rings, and half-eternity rings because their square shape allows the diamonds to sit next to each other without leaving gaps.
Pros
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Retains more rough diamond during cutting, often making it better value than a round diamond.
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Sharp corners create a bold, contemporary appearance that suits minimalist designs.
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Delivers impressive brilliance without the premium price of a round brilliant.
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Looks especially striking in square halos and geometric settings.
Cons
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Corner chipping is the biggest durability concern.
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Dust tends to collect around the pointed corners more easily.
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Can appear smaller than elongated shapes of the same carat weight.
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Uneven corner protection can make the diamond look slightly off-center.
Emerald Cut Diamond

The emerald cut was originally not created for diamonds. It was first developed for green emerald gemstones to improve their appearance and brilliance under candlelight. Today, however, it is widely used for diamonds as well. The emerald cut features step-cut faceting, so it doesn't sparkle as much as brilliant-cut diamonds. But when paired with a halo setting, it creates one of the most gorgeous engagement ring combinations available.
Pros
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Large open facets showcase exceptional diamond clarity like no other shape.
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Creates elegant flashes of light instead of constant sparkle, giving it a refined appearance.
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A long rectangular outline makes fingers appear slimmer.
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Ages gracefully because its clean lines rarely go out of style.
Cons
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Every inclusion and body color is easier to see.
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Doesn't hide fingerprints or dirt as well as brilliant-cut diamonds.
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Requires careful cutting to avoid a dull or "glassy" appearance.
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Can seem less lively under dim lighting.
Radiant Cut Diamond

The radiant cut was created for people who couldn't decide between a brilliant-cut diamond and a step-cut diamond because it combines the best of both. It features the rectangular outline of a step-cut diamond with the brilliant faceting of a round diamond. As a result, you get the sparkle of a brilliant cut along with the elegant, vintage-inspired aesthetic of a step-cut diamond.
Pros
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Combines the clean outline of an emerald cut with the sparkle of a brilliant cut.
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Trimmed corners make it more durable than princess or cushion cuts with sharper edges.
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Hides inclusions better than most rectangular shapes.
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Performs well in both modern and vintage-inspired designs.
Cons
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Facet patterns vary significantly between cutters.
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Some stones can show a crushed-ice appearance that not everyone prefers.
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Elongated versions may display a slight bow-tie effect.
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Less standardized than round diamonds, making comparisons harder.
Asscher Cut Diamond

The Asscher cut diamond may look like an emerald cut at first sight, but when you look closer, you'll notice its facets are arranged in a way that seems to converge at the center of the stone. This unique faceting creates a beautiful hall-of-mirrors effect and gives the diamond a distinctive geometric appearance. It's a shape that is mostly admired for vintage-inspired and Art Deco engagement ring designs.
Pros
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The deep pavilion creates remarkable visual depth.
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Symmetrical design gives the diamond a luxurious architectural appearance.
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Highly sought after by vintage and Art Deco enthusiasts.
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Looks exceptional in understated solitaire settings.
Cons
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Appears smaller face-up than most diamonds of equal carat weight.
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Large step facets reveal imperfections immediately.
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Limited sparkle compared to brilliant-cut diamonds.
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Requires excellent cutting precision to maintain symmetry.
Baguette Cut Diamond

The baguette diamond shape is rarely used as a center stone, but don't underestimate it because it's one of the most commonly used side stones in jewelry. These side stones decorate the band and act as decorative elements that can transform a simple solitaire into something much more elegant and eye-catching. One of the most amazing things about the baguette is its uneven sides; it has one longer side and one shorter side. When paired laterally in a continuous row, they create a beautiful geometric effect that is commonly seen in wedding bands and eternity rings.
Pros
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Creates a clean, sophisticated look without overpowering the center stone.
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Long straight lines make rings appear sleek and elegant.
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Ideal for minimalist engagement ring designs.
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Pairs beautifully with emerald and Asscher cuts.
Cons
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Minimal brilliance compared to brilliant-cut diamonds.
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Color mismatches are more noticeable.
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Limited use as a center stone.
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Chips along the corners can affect appearance quickly.
Heart Shaped Diamond

Now comes the most romantic and lovely diamond shape of them all, the heart shape. It hardly needs an introduction because it's exactly what it looks like: a heart made of sparkle. People don't choose it just because of its shape. Along with its romantic silhouette, it sparkles almost like a round brilliant diamond. Just imagine a heart-shaped diamond glittering beautifully in a yellow gold engagement ring, and you'll instantly understand its charm. If it's a pink diamond or another pink gemstone, it becomes one of the most romantic center stones you can have in an engagement ring.
Pros
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Soft glow creates a romantic candlelight appearance.
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Low profile makes the ring comfortable for everyday wear.
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Larger spread than many modern cuts of equal weight.
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Perfect for antique-inspired jewelry.
Cons
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Produces less sparkle than modern brilliant cuts.
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Can appear flat compared to contemporary diamonds.
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Fewer jewelers specialize in sourcing high-quality rose cuts.
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Limited availability increases search time.
Rose Cut Diamond

Long before modern brilliant cuts became popular, jewelers were crafting rose-cut diamonds. Instead of dazzling sparkle, these diamonds produce a soft glow that feels warm and romantic, especially under candlelight. Their antique appearance has made them increasingly popular among buyers who appreciate vintage jewelry.
Pros
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Soft glow creates a romantic candlelight appearance.
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Low profile makes the ring comfortable for everyday wear.
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Larger spread than many modern cuts of equal weight.
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Perfect for antique-inspired jewelry.
Cons
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Produces less sparkle than modern brilliant cuts.
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Can appear flat compared to contemporary diamonds.
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Fewer jewelers specialize in sourcing high-quality rose cuts.
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Limited availability increases search time.
Old Mine Cut Diamond

Before the cushion cut diamond became what it is today, there was the Old Mine cut. These diamonds were cut completely by hand, long before modern technology and precision cutting existed. That's why no two Old Mine cut diamonds look the same. Their slightly uneven shape and chunky facets give them a charm that modern diamonds simply can't copy, making them a favorite among vintage jewelry lovers and antique collectors.
Pros
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Rich antique character that's impossible to replicate exactly.
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Chunky facet pattern creates bold flashes instead of tiny sparkles.
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Excellent choice for heirloom-style rings.
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Slight asymmetry gives every diamond its own personality.
Cons
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Face-up appearance is usually smaller than modern cuts.
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Limited availability in larger sizes.
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May require custom settings.
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Not ideal for buyers seeking perfect symmetry.
Portuguese Cut Diamond

If sparkle is all you care about, then the Portuguese cut diamond deserves your attention. It is famous for having an unusually high number of facets, allowing light to bounce around the stone before bursting back out. The result is an incredible amount of brilliance from almost every angle. It isn't a diamond cut you'll come across every day, which makes it an exciting choice for buyers who want something truly different.
Pros
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Extremely high facet count creates extraordinary light performance.
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Looks mesmerizing as the stone moves.
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Rare enough to stand out from conventional diamond cuts.
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Excellent choice for collectors seeking something different.
Cons
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Intricate faceting can make the center appear visually busy.
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Less commonly available in jewelry stores.
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Requires highly skilled cutting, increasing cost.
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Can be difficult to pair with standard side stones.
Dutch Marquise Diamond

The Dutch Marquise may remind you of the traditional marquise at first glance, but it has its own antique character and personality. It's a much rarer variation that isn't commonly found in modern jewelry stores, making it a special choice for custom engagement rings. If you're someone who enjoys wearing jewelry that very few people have ever seen, the Dutch Marquise is definitely worth considering.
Pros
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Distinctive antique silhouette rarely seen in modern jewelry.
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Excellent option for bespoke engagement rings.
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Creates impressive finger coverage.
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Appeals to collectors who appreciate historic diamond cuts.
Cons
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Extremely limited availability.
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Usually requires a custom-made setting.
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Repairs and replacements can be more complicated.
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Finding matching accent stones is often difficult.
Choose The Best Diamond Shape For Your Engagement Ring
So, after looking at all these diamond shapes, you might be wondering, which one is actually the best?
Well, the truth is, there isn't one.
The best diamond shape is simply the one that matches your personality, your lifestyle, and the kind of engagement ring you dream of wearing every day. One thing we always recommend is not choosing a diamond shape just because it's trending on social media. Trends come and go, but your engagement ring is something you'll hopefully wear for a lifetime. Choose the shape that still makes you smile every time you look at your hand, even ten years from now.
You should also think about your ring setting. Some diamond shapes look incredible in a solitaire, while others truly come alive in a halo or three-stone design. The same diamond can look completely different depending on the setting around it, so don't make your decision by looking at the diamond alone.
Finally, don't rush the process. Visit a jewelry store, try on different diamond shapes, and see how each one looks on your own finger. Sometimes the shape you thought you wanted ends up feeling completely different once you wear it. Trust your eyes, trust your instincts, and choose the diamond that feels like your diamond, not someone else's favorite.
One more thing you can consider if you believe that is what the diamond shape says about you.
Each Diamond Shapes Something About You
People often say your choice of clothes says something about your personality. The same is true for diamond shapes. There isn't any science behind it, of course, but over the years, certain shapes have become associated with different personalities and styles. Want to know what your diamond shape says about you? Read our detailed guide to discover the personality and symbolism behind each diamond shape.
At Last
Whatever diamond shape you fall in love with, we've got you covered. Take your time, explore the different shapes, and choose the one that truly feels like yours. Once you've made your choice, browse our collection featuring that diamond shape. Whether you're looking for an engagement ring, wedding band, anniversary ring, necklace, bracelet, or any other fine jewelry, you'll find hundreds of beautiful designs waiting for you at Diagaa.
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