Diamond Cut Types

ryan-frank | Aug 19, 2009 |

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Diamond cut and diamond shape, though used interchangeably, do not mean the same thing. Diamond cut refers to the type of incisions that a diamond cutter makes in the process of shaping the diamond, and does not (technically) refer to the shape itself. The two general kinds of diamond cut are the step cut and the brilliant cut.

The step cut involves making small, gradual incisions that result in steps along the rock's surface. The shape that results from this kind of cut is a rectangle. Step cuts, while not as sparkling, have a long elegant shape reminiscent of antique jewelry.

The brilliant cut diamond is made using incisions at an angle designed to maximize internal refraction. The shape created by this type of cut is the famous round shaped diamond, commonly used in diamond rings in San Diego, CA and most diamond jewelry.

By modifying and/or mixing these two cuts, diamond cutters can create different diamond shapes. Here are some of the most popular ones.

Radiant Diamonds
Radiant cut diamonds combined the shape of the step cut with the brilliance of the brilliant cut, producing a rectangular shaped stone with more sparkle and slightly rounded edges. It's 70 facets maximize refraction.

Marquise Diamonds
Supposedly designed after the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour and commissioned by King Louis XIV of France, marquise diamonds have an elongated shape with pointed ends. Used often as a solitaire diamond.

Princess Diamonds
The most popular of the mixed-cut diamonds, the princess diamond has a rigid square oblong shape. Using a modified version of the brilliant cut, the Princess diamond retains a good part of the round diamond's sparkle in a shape usually associated with the step cut.

Cushion Diamonds
Also called "pillow diamonds", the cushion diamonds were very popular a few decades ago, and are just now making a comeback. Cushion diamonds are rectangular in shape, with very rounded corners and an open culet at the bottom. They have lots of depth and a decent sparkle to them.

Heart Shaped Diamonds
Basically a pear shaped diamond with a cleft in the middle of the wider side, the heart shaped diamond is a romantic alternative to the other kinds of diamond shapes. It is very difficult to cut, and its brilliance depends greatly on the skill of the cutter.