Generally couples decide on the shape of the diamond as apposed to the cut or clarity first. The shape of the diamond is visually vital as it is showcases and accentuates the diamond.


The shape of the diamond should be confused with the cut of the diamond as the cut refers to the proportions of the diamond the way the cut allows the light to flow freely through and around the diamond. The shape of the diamond is the aesthetic the design of the diamond. The shape of the diamond is usually dictated by the initial earth shape of the diamond whether it is round d square or rectangular. Specific cuts are more popular than others and diamonds can be enhanced by shaping adding extra facets, accented diamonds and polishing the diamond to bring out the best in the precious stone.


There are various shapes to choose from which will ultimately depend on personal choice and budgetary considerations.

• Emerald: The Emerald shape is a rectangular one with trimmed corners for an elegant sophisticated diamond. The clarity of the shape diamond need to be of the highest as the facets are limited thus reflecting light less enabling flaws to be more visible than with other shapes.


• Marquise: This shape is regal and elegant with traditional tapered cut in an elongated oval shape with pointed ends horizontal to the finger ideal for long fingers. The carat weigh is maximized by this as the diamond looks larger than the actual size in fact and make a lesser carat diamond look a million dollars.


• The Round: the most popular diamond shape as the shape will compliment any ring finger shape or size. The multi faceted shape will reflect the light brilliantly and sparkly effortlessly. The light flows freely in and around the 58 facets of the diamond. The shape is timeless and will stand test of time in terms of Fashionability.


• The Princess: Is a square cut diamond which gives a twist to the Asscher cut diamond. This multi faceted shape is the second most popular shape with brides to be as the lustre and sparkle is evident from the first viewing and has to be seen to be believed. The clarity of the diamond is also less important as the flaws are less visible to the naked eye. The cut of the diamond is important and the additional facets can make this an expensive diamond choice is you don’t shop around. This ring with its large surface diamond is often complemented by smaller accented diamond at either side for a full feature of bling.


• The Asscher: This is an alternative to the emerald cut with dynamic defined square shape with trimmed corners. The style is reminiscent of the sophisticated Art Deco period with its very elegant sophisticated stepping design. The shape is referred to as the hall of mirrors as the shape draws you into it. The shape is bold and broad but the brilliance is stifled by the stepping cut formation. The cut on this diamond is important as a deeply cut diamond will lack brilliance and lustre.


• The Cushion: This cut is sometimes referred to as the pillow cut as the rectangular centre and rounded edged resemble the look of a cushion or pillow. The cut of the diamond is that of lustre and brilliance. A popular shape dating back centuries ago when princess was proposed to by princes on bended knee. The clarity of this diamond will be evident because of the way the light reflects through the diamond. The down side of this diamond is that a smaller diamond won’t be easily configured and the clarity and size will be significantly greater for lustre and sparkle.


• The Oval: Is an alternative for those looking to have a diamond that is different to the traditional round diamond. The elongated shape is a mix of round and marquise and like the Marquise will flatter any hand shape as it gives the illusion of length giving shorter fingers a slender look. This diamond shape is popular with women who like three stone rings or accented rings in varying colours of gem stones. This ring is versatile unique and has a wide ranging appeal.


• The Pear: This is a cross between the Marquise and the Oval as it is likened to a tear drop romantic shape. The Pear is a shape that is the kind of shape for girls who are looking for a ring that is a little different and stand out form the crowd. Popular for earrings and necklaces also this is the perfect shape diamond for an anniversary or sentimental commerative occasion. This shape can resemble a pear of a more elongated shape of the Marquise.


• Radiant: This shape embodies the elegance of the Emerald and the traditional simplicity of the Round for a square diamond with a difference. With up to 70 facets this diamond makes this a square sparkling diamond with trimmed corners for a robust looking diamond.


• The Heart: A romantic shaped diamond as it is associated with love and all things heart shaped but it is like stating the obvious and is not a very popular choice for the majority of brides to be. The shape is more often used for symbolic silver jewelry as symbols of love or friendship. This diamond shape is better used for pendants or heart shaped silver pendants with a miniature diamond encrusted. This shape is said to be a bit vulgar or overstated for and engagement ring. The clarity of this diamond is often hard to determine and in turn is difficult to observe hidden flaws or (inclusions).


Choosing a Shape
Having familiarised your self with the various shapes of diamonds you will be confidant of the kind of shape and style of diamond that is preferable to you. The importance of the shape of the diamond doesn’t just have to be aesthetically pleasing to the eye but has to suit the shape of your finger, Elongated shapes such as the Marquise, Emerald and Oval suit larger fingers and broader shapes such as the Princess Heart or Asscher will suit smaller slender fingers



The shape and the setting of the ring should show case the diamond to its fullest potential and show sparkle and shine brilliantly on your finger as if it was made specifically for you, and is one of a kind. Choosing the perfect ring is all part of the fun of getting engaged and whether you choose to buy on line or in a reputable jewelry store the choice should be a personal one which reflects your own unique sense of style and quirky personality.