When it comes to capturing hearts and evoking emotion, diamonds have a special power. For centuries, they have been symbols of everlasting love, wealth, and elegance. Yet, when it comes to picking the perfect diamond, the variety of shapes can often make the decision overwhelming. While one might assume that a diamond’s appeal lies solely in its brilliance, the shape you opt for can reveal much about your character, the nature of your relationship, and even the overall look of your jewellery piece. We will traverse this beautiful landscape of diamond shapes, discussing their distinct features so you can make a choice that resonates with you and your loved ones.
A Brief Overview of Diamond Shapes
When you’re looking at the different forms diamonds can take, a simple method to classify them involves breaking them down into nine main types. Each type carries its own distinct traits and a specific look that can suit various preferences and styles.
Understanding Diamond Shapes
The Round Brilliant Cut
The Round Brilliant cut is a classic choice, representing an overwhelming majority of diamond sales around the globe. Featuring 57 or 58 meticulously crafted facets, it is revered for its perfect geometry that yields unparalleled brilliance. The cut captures and reflects light beautifully, providing a mesmerising sparkle. Suppose you’re a connoisseur of timeless elegance. In that case, this cut is the epitome of tradition and could be the perfect choice for you. Symbolically, its circular shape represents eternal love, with no beginning and no end.
The Princess Cut
Square with sharp, pointed corners, the Princess cut embodies the spirit of contemporary aesthetics. Ideal for those who have a penchant for modern designs, its angular lines add a geometric complexity that perfectly complements a contemporary style. The square shape symbolises stability and a grounded nature, making it perfect for those who value strong foundations in their relationships.
The Oval Cut
If the classic Round diamond appeals to you but you’re in search of something a bit different, the Oval cut is worth considering. Its elongated design adds a unique flair and can even create the illusion of slender fingers. From a symbolic standpoint, the absence of corners signifies continuity and unity, but the elongation adds a dash of creativity and individuality to it.
The Emerald CutCharacterised by its rectangular shape with truncated corners, the Emerald cut exudes sophistication. While this cut has fewer facets, its large, flat table creates a reflective, mirror-like effect that gives off an air of composed elegance. The cut corners and elongated shape symbolise both stability and a willingness to think out of the box, making this cut an excellent choice for those who revel in a nuanced kind of luxury.
The Asscher Cut
Resembling a square-shaped Emerald cut, the Asscher cut transports you to another era with its vintage charisma. With a higher crown and a smaller table, this cut magnifies the diamond’s clarity. It’s a favourite among those who are enamoured with antiquity. Symbolically, its unique blend of square and truncated corners encapsulates a balance of tradition and unique perspective.
The Radiant Cut
The Radiant cut diamonds are versatile, available in either square or rectangular shapes. These diamonds are specifically designed to maximise sparkle with their numerous facets. The cut corners give them a contemporary flair, making them an ideal option for those who appreciate a synthesis of classic and modern styles. The mix of square and rounded elements symbolises a balanced and harmonious relationship.
The Cushion Cut
Softly rounded corners and large facets give the Cushion cut its distinctive ‘pillowy’ appearance. This cut brings together vintage allure with modern brilliance. The rounded edges symbolise comfort and unity, making it an ideal choice for those whose relationships are a sanctuary of mutual comfort and support.
The Pear Cut
Often likened to a teardrop, it is a compelling choice for those who wish to venture beyond conventional shapes. The elongation gives an illusion of slender fingers while the numerous facets ensure optimal brilliance. In terms of symbolism, the Pear cut embodies a harmonious balance of strength and independence, making it ideal for the individualistic and the confident.
The Marquise Cut
This cut is characterised by its elongated form, resembling a small boat. Its stretched shape not only lengthens the appearance of your fingers but also adds a layer of complexity with its multi-faceted surface. The Marquise cut stands for grandeur and opulence, making it a striking choice for those who wish to make a bold statement.
The Heart Cut
For those who believe love should be worn close to one’s heart, the heart cut is the epitome of romance. This universally admired symbol encapsulates love and affection, making the heart cut diamond an ultimate choice for romantics and idealists alike.
The Old Miner Cut
This cut is a rare find that harks back to a bygone era. Its fewer facets and distinctive shape give it a vintage charm that is incomparable. In symbolic terms, the Old Miner cut represents an enduring love that has been, or will be, tested over time yet remains unbroken.
Lab-Grown Diamonds: A Modern Choice
Lab-grown diamonds can be cut into any shape, just like mined diamonds. These gems offer greater flexibility in shape and size, especially for intricate designs like heart-shaped, marquise-shaped, and pear-shaped diamonds. The possibilities are virtually limitless, giving you a wider range of options for expressing your individual style and relationship.
The Meaning Behind Each Shape
The shape of a diamond isn’t merely aesthetic; it carries with it a range of emotional and cultural connotations that can add a layer of meaning to your choice. For instance, an Emerald cut could symbolise enduring clarity in a relationship, while a Marquise cut might represent an adventurous journey filled with exciting twists and turns. Your choice can reflect your style, your relationship, and your personal story.
Finding a Trustworthy Jeweller
It’s critical to find a reputable jeweller, and in the UK, you need to look no further than Hatton Garden, particularly Smith & Green Jewellers. They can not only provide a wide variety of diamond shapes but also customised lab-grown diamonds tailored to your specifications.
Conclusion
Selecting a diamond shape is much more than a cursory choice; it’s a reflection of personal style, individual love stories, and even a particular state of mind. When you pick a diamond, you’re choosing a piece of eternity. A diamond’s shape can speak volumes, sometimes far more articulately than words ever could. Choose wisely, for in the shimmering facets of these eternal stones, you’re looking at the rest of your life.
