The Shopper's Guide to Diamond Shapes

For centuries, radiant diamonds have stood as the premier choice for engagement rings, captivating with their brilliance and durability. Different diamond cuts unveil the stone's beauty in varied and mesmerizing ways, each designed to maximize its sparkle and allure and produce a unique aesthetic effect. Whether you prefer the timeless elegance of a round cut or the bold modernity of an emerald cut, finding the right shape is crucial. It ensures that your engagement ring not only reflects your personal style but also showcases the gem's stunning beauty. At Heller Jewelers, our selection is curated to help you discover the perfect cut that captures the essence of your everlasting love.

The Classic Round

Renowned for its symmetry and balance, the timeless round cut features 58 facets that maximize light return, creating unmatched brilliance and sparkle. As the most popular choice for engagement rings, this cut has a rich history of being celebrated for its ability to enhance a stone's natural beauty.

The Elegant Oval

With its elongated shape and unique aesthetic, the oval cut offers a distinct alternative to traditional round stones. Featuring 56 to 58 facets, this cut not only enhances the stone's brilliance but also creates an illusion of greater size. Ideal for those seeking a sophisticated yet distinctive look, it flatters the hand by elongating the fingers.

The Modern Princess

Introduced in the 1980s, the princess cut quickly gained popularity for its sharp, modern lines and brilliant facets. Characterized by its square shape and approximately 76 facets, this cut offers exceptional sparkle and a contemporary aesthetic. Those who appreciate a blend of traditional sparkle with a modern edge often gravitate towards this dynamic and elegant choice for their engagement rings.

The Bold Cushion

Tracing back to the 19th century, the cushion cut was once known as the "mine cut." Its rounded corners and large facets highlight its unique pillow-like shape, enhancing the stone’s natural luster. With a romantic, soft appearance, the cushion cut appeals to those who adore vintage aesthetics combined with the allure of old-world charm in their jewelry.

The Dazzling Radiant

Developed in the 1970s, the radiant cut masterfully combines the elegant emerald shape with the brilliant facets typical of round cuts. Known for its trimmed corners and 70 facets, it maximizes light reflection, creating intense sparkle and fire. This unique blend makes it an excellent choice for those seeking a vibrant and eye-catching look in their engagement ring.

The Rare Emerald

Distinguished by its rectangular shape with cut corners, the emerald cut features long, lean facets arranged in parallel lines, known as a "step cut." Originating from stone-cutting techniques developed centuries ago, its clarity-focused design offers a unique, understated elegance. Those who value sophistication and a vintage flair might find the emerald cut perfectly aligns with their refined tastes for an engagement ring.

The Distinctive Marquise

Originating in the 18th century and named after the Marquise of Pompadour, the marquise cut is celebrated for its boat-like shape and elongated body. With typically 56 to 58 facets, it maximizes carat weight, making stones appear larger. Ideal for those looking to make a bold statement, the marquise cut flatters the finger by creating an illusion of length and elegance.

The Feminine Pear

Inspired by a teardrop, the pear shape combines the best elements of round and marquise cuts with its rounded bottom and pointed top. With around 58 facets, it offers exceptional brilliance and a soft, delicate appearance. This cut dates back to the 1400s and creates a striking visual interest, making it perfect for those desiring a unique and eye-catching engagement ring.

Explore Beautiful Diamonds at Heller Jewelers

Visit Heller Jewelers’ San Ramon jewelry store in California to explore an exceptional selection of designer engagement rings and a vast inventory of precisely cut loose diamonds. Our custom design services allow you to create a truly unique piece. To experience our personalized service firsthand, request an appointment for a consultation with one of our knowledgeable team members.