Once upon a time the choice of diamond shapes was relatively limited. Not all that long ago the Round Brilliant Cut diamond, the most popular choice amongst modern women, did not exist! Take a look back in history and you will see that old world cuts, such as the Rose Cut were the choice for many. Fast-forward into the future and we now have a wonderful array of different shaped diamonds to choose from, all thanks to the advancement of technology.
If you have your heart set on a unique style of engagement ring you can be thankful that you are living in the 21st century. Like most products, your choices are abundant; you are certainly not limited to the popular Round Brilliant Cut diamond.
This, of course, does not mean that a Round Brilliant Cut diamond is not a fantastic choice. For many women, their brilliance is hard to pass up. Some designs naturally lend themselves to alternative shapes and for some women fancy cut diamonds are more appealing.
For those who are after something with a bit of an edge, an alternative to the Round Brilliant Cut, we have put together a guide to some alternative shapes:
The Asscher Cut
‘Zen’ featuring a 1.00ct Asscher Cut diamond complemented by two Trapezoid cut diamonds and six Carre diamonds available at Larsen Jewellery
One of our favourite cuts, the Asscher Cut is also one of the more recent. Created in 1902 by Joseph Asscher they are the perfect choice for Art Deco inspired pieces. With strong lines and cropped corners the Asscher Cut looks great as a focal point for designs with geometric and symmetrical patterns. Such a stunning cut, the Asscher also looks wonderful on its own.
The Radiant Cut
The Radiant Cut, either square or rectangular in shape, features cropped corners similar to the Asscher Cut. If you love the brilliance of a Round Brilliant Cut diamond but prefer symmetrical shapes then the Radiant Cut might just be for you! Featuring 70 facets and the same crown and pavilion design as a Round Brilliant Cut, they are designed to sparkle!
The Emerald Cut
‘SOIREE’ featuring a 1.80ct Emerald Cut Sapphire and complemented by two Trapezoid cut diamonds available at Larsen Jewellery.
Initially designed to enhance the beauty of green Emeralds it did not take long for diamond cutters to adapt this style of cut to diamonds. The Emerald Cut, one of the first cuts featuring cropped corners, is an elegant and stylish choice. Also referred to as a Step Cut, lovers of Emerald Cuts should be warned that they are the least forgiving when it comes to disguising inclusions – enlist the help of an expert before making your final choice.
The Cushion Cut
The Cushion Cut has been around since the 19th Century and has maintained its popularity throughout the years. A beautiful cut with rounded corners; the Cushion comes in both square and rectangular shapes. available at Larsen Jewellery.
The Pear Cut
‘ROSETTA’ featuring a Pear cut Topaz and surrounded by 3pt Round Brilliant cut diamonds available at Larsen Jewellery.
The Pear shape, also referred to as a Teardrop, is strikingly beautiful. Every Pear Cut diamond will vary depending on its proportions. They are also an excellent choice for ladies with smaller fingers who are looking for something to elongate their hands.
The Oval Cut
‘PEONY’ featuring a 1.10ct Oval cut diamond surrounded by 18 x 1pt Australian Blue Sapphires available at Larsen Jewellery.
For those that like the fluidness and fire of a Round Brilliant Cut; the Oval Cut diamond is a great alternative. They also fit into the category of diamonds suitable for small hands. One of our favourite celebrity engagement rings is Blake Lively’s beautiful, Oval Pink Diamond, a beautiful example of how elegant an Oval Cut diamond can be.
The Marquise Cut
‘AURA’ featuring a 0.65ct Marquise diamond and surrounded by 44 x 3/4pt Round Brilliant diamonds available at Larsen Jewellery.
Similar to the Pear and Oval Cuts, the Marquise Cut is one of the forgotten shapes. The shape of a Marquise is perfect for those that are after a large diamond but can’t afford the expensive price tag of a Round Brilliant Cut. Marquises create the illusion of being larger than their carat weight and are a fantastic choice for more obscure designs.
The Heart Cut
One of the older styles of cuts, the Heart is the perfect choice for the true romantic. You may not want it set into your engagement ring, but present a Heart diamond to your loved one and you will be sure to win her over!
That Extra Touch:
Solitaire engagement rings are not for all. If you are after a touch more sparkle you may consider accentuating your central diamond with uniquely shaped, smaller diamonds such as Tapered Baguettes, Trilliant, Trapezoid or Carre Cuts.
Special thanks to Larsen Jewellery for advising on this Guide to Alternative Shaped Diamonds. See more of their beautiful work + look into how you can create your ring yourself in a special one day workshop for you and your love at www.larsenjewellery.com.au and for more ‘ringspiration’ follow @LarsenJewellery on Instagram.
Which is your idea of a to die for diamond shape?
MW x