diamond education
SHAPE UNDERSTANDING
In order to select your perfect diamond engagement ring, it
The cut of a diamond is one of the 4Cs of diamond quality,
can be helpful to understand the difference between diamond
along with clarity, color, and carat. It does not refer to the
shape and diamond cut: two properties which are often confused.
diamond’s shape but rather, its proportions, symmetry and
The diamond shape refers to the outline shape of the
how well it has been cut and polished. In turn, these affect
diamond as you look at it from the top down. Round, oval,
how much light the diamond emits, which will determine
princess, emerald, marquise, pear, cushion, asscher, and radient
the degree to which it sparkles. The different types of light
are all shapes. When selecting the perfect shape for your
reflection are referred to as brilliance, fire (flashes of color), and
diamond engagement ring several factors can guide you: The
scintillation (how light reflects with movement).
ring style you covet, your partner’s finger shape, or simply the
For now, let’s look at some of the most popular diamond
design that captures your heart.
shapes from which you may choose.
ROUND The round diamond is the most popular diamond shape, representing approximately 75 percent of all diamonds sold. Due to the mechanics of its shape, the round diamond is generally superior to fancy shapes at the proper reflection of light, maximizing potential brightness. OVAL Because the oval diamond is a modified brilliant shape (like virtually all round diamonds), it possess a fire and brilliance similar to round diamonds. PRINCESS The princess diamond is the most popular fancy diamond shape, especially for engagement rings. Like round diamonds, princess diamonds are a good choice for their flexibility in working in almost any style of ring. EMERALD The unique look of the emerald diamond is due to the step cuts of its pavilion and its large, open table. Instead of the sparkle of a brilliant, emerald diamonds produce a hall-of-mirrors effect, with the interplay of light and dark planes.
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Christopher Designs 14k Rose Gold 1.09 Carat Crisscut L’Amour Center Diamond, Surrounded by .64 Carat tw Round Diamonds, $11,429. A L B E R T ’ S
D I A M O N D
J E W E L E R S
M A G A Z I N E
