Stone Shapes
How shape affects sparkle, size, and overall look
A Practical Guide to Diamond Shapes
A diamond’s shape affects how large it appears, how it sparkles, and how color or inclusions show. Understanding shape is one of the most important parts of choosing a diamond.
Cut Types
Each shape falls into one of these two styles and creates a different visual effect
Brilliant Cuts
Many small facets that scatter light and maximize sparkle
Step Cuts
Broad, mirror like facets that highlight clarity and create clean flashes
Popular Diamond Shapes
Below are nine of the most popular diamond shapes, with key points to help you compare how they look and wear.
Round
Maximum sparkle and a timeless look that works in any setting
Balanced outline with matching diameters keeps the shape perfectly round
Oval
Appears larger per carat and elongates the finger
Best proportions range from 1.35 to 1.50 length to width
Cushion
Soft corners with a blend of classic and modern brilliance
Square or slightly rectangular depending on proportion
Emerald
Clean, elegant flashes with a focus on clarity
Longer shapes feel more elongated and refined
Radiant
Combines trimmed corners with strong sparkle
Available in both square and elongated looks
Princess
Modern square shape with bright sparkle
Slight variations create either square or subtle rectangle appearance
Asscher
Vintage inspired with step cut facets and strong symmetry
Best when close to perfectly square
Pear
Teardrop shape that blends round and marquise
Can look fuller or more slender depending on proportion
Marquise
Maximizes size appearance and finger coverage
Long, narrow shapes create a bold look
How to Choose a Shape
If you want maximum sparkle, round and other brilliant shapes are great choices.
If you prefer clean lines and a more understated look, step cut shapes like emerald or asscher stand out.
If finger coverage and size appearance matter most, oval, pear, and marquise can appear larger for their weight.
See Them Side by Side
The best way to choose a shape is to see how each one looks in person. We will walk you through proportions, sparkle, and how each shape feels on your hand so you can find the one that fits you best.