About Diamond Shapes

If you thought all diamond shapes were the same, you might be surprised. There are actually quiate a few that are readily available, in addition to custom cuts. Most jewelers offer at least nine of the most common diamond shapes, including:

• Round diamonds
• Emerald diamonds
• Heart diamonds
• Princess diamonds
• Pear diamonds
• Radiant diamonds
• Asscher diamonds
• Marquis diamonds
• Oval diamonds

Two diamonds that are the same shape will look very different if the size, size, clarity, color, cut, and weight (diamond carats) of the diamond varies. Naturally the different shapes allow for a greater variety of settings. Round diamonds are perfect for earrings, for example, while pear shaped one might look dazzling when allowed to dangle.

Many people mistakenly use the terms “diamond shapes” and “diamond cuts” interchangeably, but there is a huge difference between them. The cut of a diamond refers to how the artisan maximizes the features of the gemstone by creating angles and details, making the light go into the diamond and bounce back in the most brilliant way possible.

The quality of a diamond's cut contributes greatly to the overall value of the gemstone, where as the shape of a diamond does not increase or decrease a diamond's value. When discussing diamond shapes, you are referring to the actual geometric shape of the diamond, whether it is round or oval, emerald or heart shaped. More here on diamond shapes

For example, a perfectly cut round diamond will burn with a dazzling inner light. A lesser cut will make it appear far more ordinary and a bad cut will ruin it. But all three cuts are still "round."

With all the different diamond shapes, and setting, and colors, how do you go about choosing one? If you are buying yourself a diamond, it's just a matter of looking at all the different varieties and finding one that is most pleasing to your eyes, and the ones that look best when you put them on your finger, or wear in your necklace.

When choosing a diamond shape for someone else, it becomes a bit more difficult. For an engagement ring, many women prefer the traditional round shaped diamond, while others may enjoy having something more unique. A young woman or one who is considered a hopeless romantic may prefer to have a heart shaped diamond.