Different Diamond Shapes and Cuts

You’re shopping for a special diamond—something eye-catching and brilliant, but still tasteful and within budget. With so many options available, where do you begin? Understanding diamond cuts is one of the best places to start.

Diamond Cut vs. Diamond Shape: What’s the Difference?

These two terms are often used interchangeably, but they’re not the same thing.

• Shape refers to the outline of the diamond—round, oval, square, heart, and so on.

• Cut refers to how the diamond is faceted by the cutter to maximize sparkle, brilliance, and light performance.

A diamond’s cut has a major impact on how much it shines. Even a beautifully shaped stone can appear dull if it’s poorly cut.

Why Cut Matters So Much

Diamonds are graded based on how closely they follow ideal cutting standards—most notably those of the round brilliant cut, the most precisely defined and researched diamond cut. When executed well, this cut reflects light internally in a way that maximizes brilliance and fire.

Even though “round” is a shape, the round brilliant cut has strict proportions that determine how well it performs. Diamonds that deviate from these standards may still be round in shape, but they won’t sparkle as intensely.

One advantage of the round brilliant cut is that it disguises flaws better than many other cuts.

Diamond Cut Style Classifications

Diamond cuts generally fall into three main style categories:

Brilliant Cuts

These cuts are designed to maximize sparkle using triangular and kite-shaped facets.

• Round Brilliant

• Princess

• Oval

• Marquise

• Pear

• Heart

The round brilliant is the most popular and sparkly diamond cut of all.

Step Cuts

Step cuts feature long, rectangular facets arranged parallel to the stone’s edges. They produce a sleek, elegant look rather than intense sparkle.

• Emerald Cut

• Asscher Cut

Because step cuts have large, open facets, inclusions and imperfections are more visible.

Mixed Cuts

Mixed cuts combine elements of both brilliant and step cuts.

• Radiant Cut

• Cushion Cut

These offer a balance of sparkle and structure.

Common Diamond Cut Shapes

Here are some of the most popular diamond cuts you’ll encounter:

• Round – Maximum brilliance and sparkle

• Princess – Square shape with strong brilliance

• Emerald – Clean lines and understated elegance

• Asscher – Square emerald cut with a vintage feel

• Cushion – Soft, pillow-like shape with rounded corners

• Radiant – Bright, fiery cut with trimmed corners

• Oval – Elongated brilliant cut that appears larger

• Marquise – Pointed ends that enhance perceived size

• Pear – Teardrop shape combining round and marquise

• Heart – Symbolic shape requiring precise symmetry

• Trilliant (Trillion) – Triangular shape with bold presence

Diamonds with pointed edges—such as marquise, pear, heart, and trillion cuts—should always be set securely to protect those vulnerable points.

Choosing the Right Cut for You

Every diamond cut offers a unique personality, from maximum brilliance to refined elegance. Your choice depends on your personal style, budget, and how much sparkle you want.

With a better understanding of diamond cuts and classifications, you’ll shop with confidence—and speak the language of a true diamond jeweler!