Diamond Shapes Guide: Round, Oval, Emerald, Princess & More Explained

When people talk about diamond "shape," they're referring to the silhouette of the diamond when viewed from above. Unlike the quality of the cut (which affects brilliance), the shape is purely an aesthetic choice - and it says a lot about your personal style.

## Round Brilliant - The Classic

The round brilliant is the most popular diamond shape, accounting for about 75% of all diamond sales worldwide. With 58 facets, it's engineered for maximum light return and sparkle.

**Best for:** Traditional buyers, anyone who wants a timeless look, solitaire settings.
**Budget note:** Most expensive shape per carat - more rough diamond is wasted in cutting.

## Oval - The Elegant Choice

Oval diamonds offer the brilliance of round with an elongated silhouette. They appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight and flatter beautifully on the finger.

**Best for:** Those who want something classic but less conventional, people with shorter fingers (the elongation creates a lengthening illusion).
**Watch out:** Some ovals show a "bow-tie" effect. Always check cut quality.

## Cushion - The Vintage Romantic

Cushion-cut diamonds have larger facets and rounded corners, giving them a soft, romantic appearance reminiscent of old mine-cut diamonds. They have less brilliance than round but beautiful, warm fire.

**Best for:** Vintage lovers, Art Deco enthusiasts, anyone drawn to a softer, more romantic aesthetic.
**Note:** Cushion stones typically cost 15-25% less than round.

## Emerald - The Sophisticated Cut

The emerald cut is a step-cut shape (like a staircase viewed from above), with long, dramatic facets. It's less brilliant than round but creates stunning flashes of light called "hallows." The clean lines are deeply sophisticated.

**Best for:** Those who prioritises elegance and uniqueness over maximum sparkle, Art Deco lovers, buyers on a budget (emerald cuts are less expensive).
**Watch out:** Inclusions are very visible in emerald cuts. Stick to VS1 or higher.

## Princess - The Modern Square

The princess cut is the most popular square shape. It has sharp corners and excellent brilliance, making it a contemporary favourite.

**Best for:** Modern, geometric settings, halo settings, anyone who loves the square silhouette.
**Watch out:** Princess cut corners are vulnerable to chipping. Protect with a secure setting.

## Pear - The Unique teardrop

The pear (or teardrop) shape is a hybrid of round and marquise - one rounded end, one pointed end. It's romantic and unusual, and when worn with the pointed end toward the fingernail, it creates a flattering lengthening effect on the finger.

**Best for:** Unique personal style, vintage-inspired settings, someone who wants to stand out.
**Note:** Pear-shaped diamonds often cost 15-20% less than round.

## Marquise - The Dramatic Choice

The marquise is an elongated oval with pointed ends. It appears very large for its carat weight (the elongated shape covers more of the finger) and has a distinctly dramatic quality.

**Best for:** Dramatic, bold settings, solitaire with side stones.
**Watch out:** The pointed ends (tips) are fragile and can chip easily. A V-tip pronged setting is essential.

## Radiant - The Versatile Cut

Radiant diamonds combine the rectangular silhouette of emerald with the brilliant faceting of round. They're versatile, durable (with properly protected corners), and offer excellent sparkle.

**Best for:** Those who want a rectangular shape with more brilliance than emerald offers.
**Note:** Radiant cuts are typically priced between cushion and round.

## Compare Diamond Shapes at Diagem

Browse our full collection and filter by shape to find your perfect stone:

- [Browse All Natural Diamonds](/pages/natural-diamonds)
- [Browse Lab-Grown Diamonds](/pages/lab-grown-diamonds)
- [Need Help Choosing? Talk to Our Experts](/pages/contact-us)

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