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Stone Shape
What is Stone Shape?
A diamond's shape is arguably the most important aspect of an engagement ring. The shape defines the ring’s style and has a significant impact on the cost of the ring.
Stone shape refers to the geometrical dimensions of a diamond. There are various diamond shapes ranging from traditional round diamonds to fancy shape styles. Essentially, any diamond shape that isn’t round is considered fancy.
Is Shape the same as Cut?
While diamond cut and shape are not the same, the two can influence one another. Since cut refers to a diamond's facets and dimensions, certain diamond shapes are only worth buying in an Excellent or Very Good cut, both of which AURONIA offers.
What are the Most Popular Stone Shapes?
While there are many diamond shapes, some are more popular than others. AURONIA only sells the most popular stone shapes for engagement rings.
- Round (Brilliant)
- A round diamond is the most popular shape for engagement rings. A very-good to excellent round brilliant diamond cut will feature many facets to catch and disperse light. Round brilliant diamonds often create the most sparkle and are incredibly eye-catching; however, this also makes them one of the most expensive shapes.
- Princess
- A princess diamond is a modern square-shaped stone. This fancy shape offers great brilliance and fire, creating sparkle and colourful light. Best of all, you don’t need to choose the biggest carat to make an impression; the diamond’s diagonal measurements can make the stone’s face appear larger.
- Oval
- While oval stones are similar to round stones, they fall into the fancy shape category, making them a more affordable alternative to fully round brilliants. Oval stones create an extremely elegant-looking engagement ring that can make the wearer’s finger appear longer.
- Emerald
- Emerald-shaped diamonds get their name from the technique used to cut emeralds. They traditionally come in a rectangular shape and have a large table, which creates the appearance of a large stone. Emerald shapes are an excellent option for people looking for a glamorous engagement ring without a high price tag.
- Pear
- Pear shapes are similar to oval stones, aside from the unique single point at the end of the diamond. Also known as teardrop diamonds, pear shapes are an excellent option for people who want an individualistic-looking engagement ring. Best of all, by wearing the ring with the pointed tip facing the top of the finger, you can create the illusion of a slimmer finger.
- Cushion
- Cushion-shaped diamonds offer a softer-looking alternative to other rectangular-shaped stones like emerald and princess. With rounded edges, cushion stones look like pillows, which is where their name comes from. Cushion shapes also usually come with large facets to create a more dramatic sparkle.
Did you know?
The largest clear cut diamond in the world weighs a whopping 530 carats. This diamond, known as “Cullinan I” or the “Great Star of Africa” is a pear-shaped stone and is currently owned by Queen Elizabeth II.
Diamond Shape and the 4Cs
The 4Cs (cut, carat, colour, and clarity) can affect the appearance of different diamond shapes. For example, the cut encompasses features which determine how the stone catches the light and reflects it. Since round brilliant stones have more facets than other shapes, these are more sparkly.
On the other hand, pear shapes are harder to cut, meaning it is harder to find a pear shaped diamond with strong brilliance and fire, the two factors that affect how a stone reflects light.
Carat refers to a diamond’s weight, and some shapes can naturally appear larger than others. A larger-looking diamond shape could have the same carat as a smaller stone; this means you can get a bigger stone at a reasonable price.
Some shapes can also enhance the appearance of colour, such as princess cuts. When opting for these shapes you’ll likely want a white diamond to prevent yellow tones from peaking through.
Clarity is also an important factor since it indicates the absence of inclusions and flaws. For example, stones with large faces, such as cushion or emerald shapes, can highlight the clearness of a stone more easily. Therefore, clarity is essential if you opt for a diamond with few facets.
What to Consider when Choosing a Stone Shape
Many factors need to be taken into account when selecting a specific shape. The most crucial factor to consider is the wearer’s style. If you’re buying an engagement ring without your significant other’s input, try to choose a shape that matches their style. For timeless elegance, opt for a round brilliant engagement ring. If you want something more unique, an oval shape is a great option.
Diamond Shape Tips
If you’re looking for a beautiful engagement ring that won’t break the bank, then a princess or emerald stone is an affordable alternative to a round brilliant diamond. Princess and emerald-shaped stones create stylish and classic-looking engagement rings without the high price tag.
When choosing a shape that will impress your significant other, try to find something that suits their style. Take a look at your other half’s jewellery pieces, or ask friends and family for advice when choosing a diamond shape. All diamond shapes possess distinctive qualities that make them unique; it’s up to you to decide which shape is the best style for your partner.
On a budget? Then you should opt for a diamond shape that makes the stone appear larger without sacrificing carat. Alternatively, you can choose a shape that doesn’t highlight flaws or colour meaning you can compromise on diamond quality.
Aside from personal taste, there are other things to keep in mind when shopping for an engagement ring. For example, the stone shape often determines the cost of the engagement ring, with round brilliant diamonds being the most expensive.
Some diamond shapes are more likely to highlight inclusions and incisions, such as emerald shapes, since the large face allows flaws to be more easily seen. Therefore, if you opt for this shape, make sure to pick a higher-grade cut for a better-looking diamond.
As well as cut, the other Cs, clarity, carat, and colour also need to be taken into account. For example, pear shapes tend to show colour in the tip of the stone, so a better colour grade is advisable if you choose this style. Clarity is important in rings with a large table such as princess or round brilliant cuts since these shapes can expose flaws more easily.
Find Your Perfect Ring
If you want a high-quality diamond ring, browse our selection of exquisite wedding rings and engagement rings.
AURONIA allows you to create your individual diamond ring and add a touch of sparkle to your hands.
You can choose the shape, colour, and size of your diamonds, as well as the clarity grade.
