Choosing Your Diamond Shape
By
Keith
ThompsonChoosing the shape of your diamond jewelry
is one of the key elements in determining the overall appearance
of your ring or other diamond jewelry. There are many shapes and
variations from which to choose, but first off do not confuse
"shape" with "cut". A diamond's shape is just that: the outward
appearance of the stone, whether it is round, oval etc.; while
the cut refers to how the diamond itself is fashioned, how many
facets and so on. Below I'll examine the various diamond shapes
and tell a little about each of them, in order to help you make
that all-important choice.
Round Brilliant Diamonds - By far the most popular,
accounting for more than 75% of diamonds purchased today, they
are also the most expensive. Most coveted as an engagement ring,
they also find their way into earrings and pendants. Round
Brilliant Diamonds are noted for their fire and brilliance.
Oval Diamonds - A perfectly symmetrical design yields
a large surface area that gives the impression of a much larger
diamond, oval diamonds are favored by women with smaller hands
or shorter fingers, it's shape giving an elongated look to the
hand.
Princess Cut Diamonds - Though in appearance the
smallest of diamonds, a Princess Cut Diamond is basically an
inverted pyramid which puts most of the carat weight near the
bottom. Princess cut diamonds are most often sought as
solitaires, and are a relatively recent shape.
Marquise Diamonds - Another diamond shape that looks
larger than it actually is, the Marquise diamond is elongated
with points on each end, though sometimes altered to a "French
tip" where the end point is excised. A great choice for a
solitaire.
Emerald Cut - Rectangular with corner cuts, this
diamond is also called a step cut, because of the shape that
resembles stair steps. Large, open facets on this diamond make
it imperative to choose a stone of greater clarity and higher
color, as inclusions and weak color are more noticeable in this
cut.
Pear Shape Diamond - Exactly as it says, this diamond
is pear-shaped, or sometimes reminding one of a teardrop. Most
often found on pendants and earrings.
Heart Shaped Diamonds - A brilliant cut, the heart
shaped diamond is a romantic choice that varies from jeweler to
jeweler as it's shape can be greatly influenced by the skill of
whimsy of the gem cutter, as well as variable facet
configurations. Seek out a perfectly symmetrical stone.
Trillion Cut Diamonds - A newcomer, born in the late
seventies, this diamond is a triangle stone with equal sides.
These can make stunning earrings.
Baguette Cut Diamonds - Another step cut diamond shape
that is most frequently employed as side stones. Because it has
few facets, quality and color come into play more here as
imperfections become more visible in these uncomplicated, though
elegant diamonds.
Radiant Diamonds - A square or rectangularly shaped
diamond, the Radiant resembles the emerald shape but has 70
facets, making it much more brilliant and dazzling than the
Emerald shape.
Asscher Cut Diamonds - A rectangular shaped diamond
with high crown step facets, this shape was patented in 1902 and
is know for it's fire and ability to return light.
Cushion Cut Diamonds - Sometimes referred to as
"pillow cut", this shape was popular in the 1800's. Cut with
candle light in mind, (nothing else available at the time!) the
cushion cut is a rectangular/squarish shape, with more than a
touch of old world elegance about it.
Kite, Trapezoid & Half-Moon diamonds - Lesser know
shapes used mainly for side stones.
Choosing the right diamond shape can be more easily
accomplished with a little information and the help of a
professional jeweler. Here's hoping you find that perfect
diamond!
Keith Thompson is very fond of diamonds, and runs
http://www.engagement-ring-deals.info which can help in your
search for the perfect
diamond engagement ring.
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