What Shapes Do Diamonds Come In?
Although the two are often confused, a diamond's shape is not the same thing as the cut of the diamond. The cut refers to the placement of the facets and the proportions of those facets. The shape, on the other hand, refers to the overall form of the diamond. Diamond shape in engagement rings is often used to reflect the personality of the woman who will be wearing it, according to Wedding Channel.
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Round
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The classic engagement ring uses a round diamond, and it is the most popular shape for diamonds used. The cut used with round diamonds creates stunning sparkle. The round diamond shape is considered timeless.
Asscher
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Jewelers in Holland originally created the Asscher shape. It is a dramatic square shape with clipped corners that was popular during the art deco period in the 1920s and 1930s. Currently, this shape is enjoying renewed popularity because of current trends towards vintage items.
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Oval
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Oval-shaped diamonds are not as popular as round diamonds, but offer a similar level of brilliance when well cut. Oval diamonds are a favorite among women with shorter fingers because the shape creates the illusion of longer fingers.
Princess
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The princess diamond shape is similar to the Asscher in that it is also square. However, the princess shape is truly square, rather than having clipped corners. This shape is the second most popular shape of diamond.
Emerald
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The emerald shape diamond was first created in the art deco period. The shape shows off a diamond's clarity, though it is not as brilliant as round diamonds.
Radiant
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The radiant diamond shape is not very common; it was popular before the princess shape became available. It is square with trimmed corners and can be cut to contain a number of extra facets.
Pear
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Shaped like a teardrop, the pear-shaped diamond is common in earrings and pendants, but not as common in engagement rings. When used in a ring, side stones are generally incorporated to balance the design.
Heart
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Like radiant shaped diamonds, heart-shaped diamonds are not very common. This is a shape for the sentimental and romantic at heart.
Marquise
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A marquise-shaped diamond is a long oval with points on the end. This shape is dramatic and very popular. Like oval-shaped diamonds, it has the advantage of elongating fingers. This shape of diamond also makes the most of a diamond's carat weight.
Cushion
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The cushion-shaped diamond is a rectangle with rounded corners. It is a classically romantic diamond shape that shows clarity and brilliance at the same time.
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References
- Photo Credit diamonds black 1 image by Renato Francia from Fotolia.com
