14 Types of Diamond Cuts Every Jewelry Lover Needs to Know

Diamonds are a girl’s best friend – and with its unmatched brilliance and the luxurious image that it has had in the last centuries, it remains to be one of the most loved gemstones all over the world. As one of the most luxurious gems, it comes as no surprise that it has retained its place as the all-time favorite for engagement rings, wedding rings, and even casual jewelry. This is also one of the reasons why diamonds have been an all-time favorite for engagement rings, wedding rings, and even casual jewelry. But did you know that diamonds come in all types of cuts and shapes? In fact, the shape and cut can and will affect the value of your jewelry.

In this article, we’ll talk about the different types of diamond cuts to help you decide which one is the best choice for your jewelry needs.

What are the Different Types of Diamond Cuts for Rings and Jewelry?

There are many types of diamond cuts and shapes aside from the well-known round cut. This photo shows different kinds of diamond cuts that most jewelry in the market has. For a more in-depth explanation, here are some of the most well-known cuts that you can find on engagement rings, earrings, and other pieces of jewelry.

• The Round Diamond Cut – This type of diamond cut is traditionally used for engagement rings to symbolize commitment. They have a classic uniform and symmetrical shape. Because of the quality of round diamond cuts, pieces of jewelry that feature this shape also fetch high prices.

• The Cushion Diamond Cut – This diamond cut shape combines a more modern and rounder brilliant cut. This Cushion Diamond is typically shaped into a square with curved edges. In some instances, however, jewelers may also offer a cushion diamond cut with a more elongated shape  – so instead of a square, you get a rectangle with rounded corners.

• The Radiant Diamond Cut – This type of diamond cut possesses a silhouette shape that’s very similar to an emerald shape. The only difference is that its facets are cut in a similar way to round diamonds.

• The Princess Diamond Cut – The princess cut is a diamond shape that’s a bit more modern than other types. From above, you’re greeted with a square shape with facets that are usually divided into four quadrants. From the side, princess-cut diamonds are shaped in an inverted pyramid. This cut is second in popularity to round-cut diamonds.

• The Asscher Diamond Cut – Similar to the princess diamond, Asscher is a diamond cut that takes on a square shape but with cut corners. This lends it its distinct octagonal shape. Originally produced by the Asscher Brothers of the Asscher Diamond Company, this diamond shape is typically found in vintage jewelry, but they’re now being produced again by more modern jewelers.

• The Trilliant Diamond Cut – This type of diamond cut comes in a triangular shape. A typical trillion cut will have three sides of equal length, with a flat table at its surface.

• Heart-shaped Diamond Cut – A more elusive type of diamond cut for rings, the hear-shaped diamond is a modified brilliant cut that’s cut into a heart-like shape. Because of the sharp corner and the rounded sides, this diamond cut may be one of the most challenging shapes to be executed by jewelers.

• The Oval Diamond Cut – This oval diamond shape features an elongated round shape that’s almost oblong. It has similar brilliance to the round shape and is considered a well-known diamond cut used in engagement rings.

• The Baguette Diamond Cut – This diamond cut type features a rectangular shape with sharp edges. Because they’re considered a bit plainer than other cuts, Baguette diamonds are usually used as accent stones or accompaniments for bigger pieces of jewelry with various gemstones.

• The Lozenge Diamond Cut – This diamond type is also referred to as a shield cut or kite-shaped diamond because of its distinct shape.  If you’re looking for a bolder take on engagement rings, lozenge diamonds may be the perfect option for a sharper and more daring look.

• The Emerald Diamond Cut – Typically used in cutting emeralds (another precious gemstone), the emerald type of diamond cut features an elongated and rectangular shape. But instead of leaving the sharp edges, each corner is chiseled. Emerald facets are also straight and linear, lending it a more uniform brilliance.

• The Tapered Baguette Diamond Cut – This diamond cut is a relatively small, elongated diamond where the two long sides are tapered inward to form a long trapezoidal shape.

• The Marquise Diamond Cut – This diamond cut features a shape that’s akin to a football, thanks to its identical and symmetrical tapered ends and the rounded middle.

• The Pear-Shaped Diamond Cut – Also commonly called a tear-drop diamond, this type of diamond cut features an elongated shape where one end is rounded, and the other end is pointed – like the marquise cut. This diamond cut is typically found in diamond necklaces, wherein the gemstone serves as the main focal point.

How Are Diamonds Cut?

We are always fascinated by how beautiful and sparkly diamonds are, but have you ever wondered how these precious stones are formed and who exactly takes on the reins in gem cutting? Today, the process of gem cutting is led by gem cutters or lapidaries. The term “gem cutters” is used as the more common term to describe the person who cuts precious stones, while “lapidary” is a more technical wording that may describe the person doing the gem cutting or the process in itself. 

But how do the lapidaries cut gemstones – especially since diamonds are hailed as one of the hardest materials in the world? Lapidary or gem cutters use specialized equipment to cut, grind and polish diamonds. In some cases, gem cutters use automatic machines to grind gemstones into their desired diamond shapes and cuts. Other times, lapidary may opt for a more hands-on technique of manually cutting diamonds using specific hand tools.

Lastly, you may wonder how long lapidaries cut a single piece of diamond. A single carat of diamond can take up to 4 to 8 hours. This includes the process of chipping the imperfections in a diamond, shaping it down to the diamond cut, and polishing it. However, in some cases, gem cutters may even take longer depending on the complexity of the type of diamond cut.

Make Diamond Images Shine With Jewelry Retouchers

Getting the right type of diamond shape is one thing, making it look good on camera is another. If you’re in the trade of jewelry manufacturing and sales, you’re probably well aware that diamonds can look different in pictures compared to when you’re handling them in person. Various factors can make them look duller and underwhelming, including dust, lighting, and discolorations. If you’d like your diamonds to look their best, you can contact us at Jewelry Retouchers. Reach out to us, and we’ll get in touch right away. You can email us at hello@paperboatcreative.com to find out more.