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The Popularity of Diamond Cuts: Which Ones are Most in Demand

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A diamond cut refers to the specific shape and style of a diamond, as well as the quality of the cut. The cut of a diamond determines how well the diamond reflects light and sparkles, which is known as its “brilliance.” A well-cut diamond will have a balanced, symmetrical shape and a high degree of brightness, fire, and scintillation.

There are many different types of diamond cuts, including the round cut, princess cut, emerald cut, oval cut, pear cut, marquise cut, heart cut, and cushion cut. Each type of cut has its own unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of settings and styles.

The process of cutting a diamond involves carefully shaping and polishing the rough stone to create the desired shape and finish. Diamond cutting is a skilled art that requires a high level of precision and expertise, as even the slightest mistake can affect the overall quality and value of the finished diamond

What are GIA Cut Grades?

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) is a leading authority on diamonds and gemstones, and it has developed a system for grading the cut quality of diamonds. The GIA cut grade system assigns a letter grade to diamonds based on the overall quality of their cut. The cut grades range from Excellent to Poor, with Excellent being the highest grade and Poor being the lowest.

The GIA cut grade is based on several factors, including the diamond’s brightness, fire, and scintillation (the amount of sparkle and shine the diamond produces); the symmetry of the diamond’s facets (the flat surfaces on the diamond); and the proportions of the diamond (how the diamond’s depth, width, and angles are balanced).

It’s important to note that the GIA cut grade is just one factor to consider when choosing a diamond. It’s also important to consider the diamond’s carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade (known as the “4 C’s”), as well as personal preferences and budget.

GIA Diamond Cut Grade Chart

Diamond cut grade determines the quality of cut. Here is a chart showing the different cut grades used by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to grade the quality of diamond cuts:

Cut Grade Description
Excellent Diamonds with an Excellent cut grade have the highest level of brightness, fire, and scintillation, and they are well-proportioned with very good symmetry.
Very Good Diamonds with a Very Good cut grade have a high level of brightness, fire, and scintillation, and they are well-proportioned with good symmetry.
Good Diamonds with a Good cut grade have a good level of brightness, fire, and scintillation, and they are well-proportioned with good symmetry.
Fair Diamonds with a Fair cut grade have a fair level of brightness, fire, and scintillation, and they may have some slight symmetry or proportion issues.
Poor Diamonds with a Poor cut grade have a low level of brightness, fire, and scintillation, and they may have significant symmetry or proportion issues.

It’s important to note that the GIA cut grade is just one factor to consider when choosing a diamond. It’s also important to consider the diamond’s carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade (known as the “4 C’s”), as well as personal preferences and budget.

The Different Types of Diamond Cuts

There are many different types of diamond cuts, each with its own unique characteristics and suitable for different types of settings and styles. Here is a list of the most common types of diamond cuts:

Round Cut DiamondsThe round cut, also known as the brilliant cut, is the most popular and classic diamond cut. It has a circular shape with 58 facets (small, flat surfaces) arranged in a specific pattern to maximize the diamond’s brightness and sparkle.Discover CollectionPrincess Cut Diamonds The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond cut with pointed corners. It has a modern, geometric look and is often used in engagement rings.
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Emerald Cut DiamondsThe emerald cut is a rectangular diamond cut with step-cut facets and a longer, rectangular shape. It has a sophisticated, elegant look and is often used in vintage-style jewelry.
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Oval Cut Diamonds The oval cut is a diamond cut with an oval-shaped face and a brilliant cut. It has a elongated, oval shape and is similar to the round cut in terms of sparkle and brightness.
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Pear Cut DiamondsThe pear cut, also known as the teardrop cut, is a diamond cut with a pear-shaped face and a brilliant cut. It has a unique, asymmetrical shape and is often used in pendants and earrings.
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Marquise Cut DiamondsThe pear cut, also known as the teardrop cut, is a diamond cut with a pear-shaped face and a brilliant cut. It has a unique, asymmetrical shape and is often used in pendants and earrings.
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Heart Cut DiamondsThe pear cut, also known as the teardrop cut, is a diamond cut with a pear-shaped face and a brilliant cut. It has a unique, asymmetrical shape and is often used in pendants and earrings.
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Cushion Cut DiamondsThe cushion cut is a diamond cut with a square or rectangular shape and rounded corners. It has a vintage, antique look and is often used in engagement rings.
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4 C’s of Diamond Cuts

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The 4 C’s of diamond cuts refer to the four key factors that determine the quality and value of a diamond: cut, carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade. Here is a brief overview of each of the 4 C’s:

  1. Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to the shape and style of the diamond, as well as the quality of the cut. A well-cut diamond will have a balanced, symmetrical shape and a high degree of brightness, fire, and scintillation. The cut grade is assigned by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and ranges from Excellent to Poor, with Excellent being the highest grade and Poor being the lowest.
  2. Carat Weight: The carat weight of a diamond refers to its size, or how much the diamond weighs. One carat is equal to 0.2 grams. The carat weight of a diamond is an important factor in determining its value, as larger diamonds are generally more expensive. However, the cut, color, and clarity of the diamond can also affect its value.
  3. Color Grade: The color grade of a diamond refers to the amount of color that is present in the diamond. Diamonds are graded on a scale from D (no color) to Z (yellow or brown color). The higher the color grade, the more valuable the diamond is. Colorless diamonds (D-F grade) are the most valuable and rare, while diamonds with a yellow or brown hue (G-Z grade) are less valuable.
  4. Clarity Grade: The clarity grade of a diamond refers to the presence of inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface flaws) in the diamond. Diamonds are graded on a scale from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes) to Included (noticeable inclusions). The higher the clarity grade, the more valuable the diamond is. Flawless and Internally Flawless (IF) diamonds are the most valuable and rare, while diamonds with visible inclusions are less valuable.

Prices for Different Diamond Cuts


The price of a diamond can vary significantly depending on the cut, carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade of the diamond. Here is a general overview of the price range for different types of diamond cuts:

  1. Round Cut: The round cut is the most popular and classic diamond cut, and it tends to be the most expensive due to its high demand. Prices for round cut diamonds can range from $2,000 to $50,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.
  2. Princess Cut: The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond cut with a modern, geometric look. Prices for princess cut diamonds can range from $1,500 to $20,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.
  3. Emerald Cut: The emerald cut is a rectangular diamond cut with a sophisticated, elegant look. Prices for emerald cut diamonds can range from $1,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.
  4. Oval Cut: The oval cut is a diamond cut with an oval-shaped face and a brilliant cut. Prices for oval cut diamonds can range from $1,500 to $20,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.
  5. Pear Cut: The pear cut, also known as the teardrop cut, is a diamond cut with a unique, asymmetrical shape. Prices for pear cut diamonds can range from $1,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.
  6. Marquise Cut: The marquise cut is a diamond cut with a pointed oval shape and a brilliant cut. Prices for marquise cut diamonds can range from $1,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.
  7. Heart Cut: The heart cut is a diamond cut with a heart-shaped face and a brilliant cut. Prices for heart cut diamonds can range from $1,000 to $15,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.
  8. Cushion Cut: The cushion cut is a diamond cut with a square or rectangular shape and rounded corners. Prices for cushion cut diamonds can range from $1,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the other 4 C’s.

It’s important to note that these price ranges are just estimates and may vary based on the specific characteristics of the diamond and the market conditions at the time of purchase. It’s a good idea to do your research and shop around to find the best deal on a diamond that meets your needs and budget.

Choosing the Right Diamond Cut for You

Diamonds can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several hundred thousand dollars or more, depending on the cut, carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade. Determine your budget before shopping for a diamond to help narrow down your options and avoid overspending.
Determine your budget

Diamonds can range in price from a few hundred dollars to several hundred thousand dollars or more, depending on the cut, carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade. Determine your budget before shopping for a diamond to help narrow down your options and avoid overspending.

The type of diamond cut you choose should complement the setting of the diamond, whether it's an engagement ring, necklace, or pair of earrings. For example, a round cut diamond may be a good choice for a solitaire engagement ring, while a princess cut diamond may be better suited for a halo setting.
Consider the setting

The type of diamond cut you choose should complement the setting of the diamond, whether it’s an engagement ring, necklace, or pair of earrings. For example, a round cut diamond may be a good choice for a solitaire engagement ring, while a princess cut diamond may be better suited for a halo setting.

Diamond cuts come in a variety of shapes and styles, so it's important to choose a cut that reflects your personal style and tastes. If you prefer a classic, timeless look, a round cut diamond may be a good choice. If you prefer a more modern, geometric look, a princess cut diamond may be a better fit.
Think about your personal style

Diamond cuts come in a variety of shapes and styles, so it’s important to choose a cut that reflects your personal style and tastes. If you prefer a classic, timeless look, a round cut diamond may be a good choice. If you prefer a more modern, geometric look, a princess cut diamond may be a better fit.

The 4 C's (cut, carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade) are important factors to consider when choosing a diamond. Look for a diamond that has a good cut grade, a carat weight that is appropriate for the setting and your budget, a color grade that is appropriate for your preferences and the setting, and a clarity grade that meets your standards.
Consider the 4 C’s


The 4 C’s (cut, carat weight, color grade, and clarity grade) are important factors to consider when choosing a diamond. Look for a diamond that has a good cut grade, a carat weight that is appropriate for the setting and your budget, a color grade that is appropriate for your preferences and the setting, and a clarity grade that meets your standards.

It's a good idea to shop around and compare prices and quality from different jewelers before making a purchase. Don't be afraid to negotiate or ask for a better deal, as prices can vary significantly depending on the seller and market conditions.
Shop around


It’s a good idea to shop around and compare prices and quality from different jewelers before making a purchase. Don’t be afraid to negotiate or ask for a better deal, as prices can vary significantly depending on the seller and market conditions.



Factors that Affect a Diamond’s Cut

There are several factors that can affect a diamond’s cut, including the following:

The Factors That Afect The Cut Of A Diamond 1

  1. The rough diamond: The quality of the rough diamond (the uncut, raw diamond) is an important factor that can affect the finished diamond’s cut. A rough diamond with a high quality, homogenous structure will be easier to cut and result in a higher quality finished diamond.
  2. The cutter’s skill: The skill of the cutter is also a crucial factor in the quality of the diamond cut. A skilled cutter will be able to create a balanced, symmetrical shape and optimize the diamond’s brightness and sparkle.
  3. The cutting equipment: The equipment used to cut the diamond can also affect the quality of the cut. Modern cutting equipment, such as lasers, can create precise, intricate cuts that were not possible with older equipment.
  4. The cutting style: The cutting style, or the specific pattern of facets (small, flat surfaces) on the diamond, can also affect the diamond’s cut. Different cutting styles can create different effects, such as greater or lesser brightness, fire, and scintillation.
  5. The diamond shape: The shape of the rough diamond can also affect the finished diamond’s cut. Some shapes, such as round and oval, are easier to cut and result in a higher quality finished diamond, while other shapes, such as pear and marquise, are more challenging to cut and may result in a lower quality finished diamond.

Diamond Cut Proportions

Diamond cut proportions refer to the specific measurements and angles of a diamond that determine its overall appearance and quality. The ideal proportions for a diamond vary depending on the type of cut, but in general, diamonds with good proportions will have a balanced, symmetrical shape and a high degree of brightness, fire, and scintillation.

Here are some specific factors that can affect diamond cut proportions:

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Table size: The table is the large, flat facet on the top of the diamond. A diamond with a table that is too large may look bulky or disproportionate, while a diamond with a table that is too small may lack brightness and sparkle.

  1. Depth: The depth of a diamond refers to the distance from the top of the diamond to the bottom. A diamond with a depth that is too shallow may lack sparkle and brightness, while a diamond with a depth that is too deep may look disproportionate and have less sparkle.
  2. Girdle thickness: The girdle is the narrow band around the edge of the diamond. A diamond with a thin girdle may be fragile and prone to chipping, while a diamond with a thick girdle may look disproportionate.
  3. Crown angle: The crown angle is the angle between the top of the diamond and the girdle. A diamond with a crown angle that is too steep may lack sparkle and brightness, while a diamond with a crown angle that is too shallow may look disproportionate.
  4. Pavilion angle: The pavilion is the lower part of the diamond below the girdle. The pavilion angle is the angle between the pavilion and the girdle. A diamond with a pavilion angle that is too steep may lack sparkle and brightness, while a diamond with a pavilion angle that is too shallow may look disproportionate.

What is the best Diamond Cut?

Each of these cuts has its own unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of settings and styles.

The round cut, also known as the brilliant cut, is the most popular and classic diamond cut. It has a circular shape with 58 facets arranged in a specific pattern to maximize the diamond’s brightness and sparkle.

The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond cut with pointed corners. It has a modern, geometric look and is often used in engagement rings.

The emerald cut is a rectangular diamond cut with step-cut facets and a longer, rectangular shape. It has a sophisticated, elegant look and is often used in vintage-style jewelry.

The oval cut is a diamond cut with an oval-shaped face and a brilliant cut. It has a elongated, oval shape and is similar to the round cut in terms of sparkle and brightness.

The pear cut, also known as the teardrop cut, is a diamond cut with a pear-shaped face and a brilliant cut. It has a unique, asymmetrical shape and is often used in pendants and earrings.

How to Determine Diamond Cut Quality

There are several factors to consider when determining the quality of a diamond cut, including the following:

  1. Cut grade: The cut grade is assigned by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and ranges from Excellent to Poor. Diamonds with an Excellent cut grade have the highest level of brightness, fire, and scintillation and are well-proportioned with very good symmetry. Diamonds with a Poor cut grade have a low level of brightness, fire, and scintillation and may have significant symmetry or proportion issues.
  2. Proportions: The proportions of a diamond refer to the specific measurements and angles of the diamond, including the table size, depth, girdle thickness, crown angle, and pavilion angle. Diamonds with good proportions will have a balanced, symmetrical shape and a high degree of brightness, fire, and scintillation.
  3. Polish and symmetry: The polish and symmetry of a diamond refer to the finish and alignment of the facets (small, flat surfaces) on the diamond. Diamonds with a good polish will have a smooth, even finish, while diamonds with good symmetry will have a balanced, symmetrical shape.
  4. Brightness, fire, and scintillation: The brightness, fire, and scintillation of a diamond refer to the amount of light that is reflected and refracted by the diamond. Diamonds with a high degree of brightness, fire, and scintillation will have a sparkling, radiant appearance.

What’s the difference between Diamond Cut and Diamond Shape?

Diamond cut refers to the quality of the cut, or the specific pattern of facets (small, flat surfaces) on the diamond and how well they are aligned and finished to maximize the diamond’s brightness, fire, and scintillation. The cut grade is assigned by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and ranges from Excellent to Poor, with Excellent being the highest grade and Poor being the lowest.

Diamond shape refers to the overall appearance of the diamond, or the specific form of the diamond. There are many different diamond shapes, including round, princess, emerald, oval, pear, marquise, heart, and cushion. Each diamond shape has its own unique characteristics and is suitable for different types of settings and styles.

It’s important to note that the diamond cut and shape are two separate factors that can affect the appearance and value of a diamond. A well-cut diamond may have a high cut grade and a high degree of brightness, fire, and scintillation, while a diamond with a unique, attractive shape may be more desirable to some buyers.