How To Choose The Perfect Diamond Shape For Your Engagement Ring

So you’re on the hunt for the perfect engagement ring, huh? Fun times! In this exciting journey, the diamond’s shape is one of the first decisions you’ll face—and arguably one of the most important. From the elegance of the round cut to the contemporary allure of the oval, each shape holds a story waiting to be told.

Not all diamond shapes will look the same on everyone’s hands. What dazzles on one person’s finger might not have the same effect on another’s. It’s all about how the diamond’s shape interacts with the hand’s size, length, and overall style.

Choosing the perfect diamond shape

The magic behind finding your dream engagement ring often lies in the shape of the main stone, as each shape has its unique way of catching the light and sparkling. Consider what typically draws you in when it comes to jewelry you wear daily.

If you’re leaning toward something a bit more unique and modern, engagement rings with lab-created diamonds can offer a refreshing twist. And the price tag of these trendy sparklers went from USD$4,037 in 2020 up to USD$4,383 in 2021, which is an 8.6% increase. Since they’re about 40% to 50% cheaper than traditional diamonds, you get that mix of cutting-edge style, doing right by the planet and keeping some cash in your pocket.

Still undecided? Worry not, because this guide is here to walk you through the top diamond shapes you’re likely to encounter while hunting for the perfect engagement ring. Each shape brings its own flavor and flair to the table, ensuring there’s something for every taste and preference.

• Round cut: The timeless choice

Kicking things off in this list is the good old round-cut diamond—the epitome of classic beauty and remains the most popular shape for engagement rings. Its 57 or 58 facets are engineered to maximize light reflection, resulting in unmatched brilliance and sparkle. It’s the go-to for anyone who loves a bit of tradition and elegance that stands the test of time.

The versatility of a round diamond makes it play nicely with pretty much any setting you can think of, from a simple solitaire to a dazzling halo. Its symmetrical shape means it can cozy up next to other diamonds or gems, making your ring a total showstopper.

A round cut’s enduring popularity isn’t just a passing phase, which means it’s likely to hold onto its value as the years roll by. In fact, according to a survey by The Knot in 2020, round diamonds were the top pick for engaged couples. What’s more, round diamonds make up about 60% of all engagement rings. It’s like everyone’s in on this circle of love (pun intended.)

• Princess cut: Modern and chic

Who would say no to feeling and looking like royalty every day, right? Cue in another crowd favorite—the princess cut diamond. Its sharp angles and clean lines give it a contemporary feel, while its brilliance is second only to the round cut. A big reason why people are drawn to princess cuts is their straight edges, making it a breeze to fit side stones snugly next to the main event.

This cut also often comes with a more attractive price tag than their round counterparts of similar size and quality. That’s because when crafting a princess cut, diamond cutters can save more of the original diamond, cutting down on waste.

Just a heads up, though, when picking out a princess-cut diamond, it’s wise to go for a setting that offers some protection. These diamonds have a rep for chipping in the corners or even popping out if not appropriately secured.

• Oval cut: Unique elegance

The oval cut diamond offers a distinct twist on the traditional, combining the brilliance of a round cut but with a more elongated shape. Because of its shape, you’re essentially getting a bigger bang for your buck in terms of surface area per carat—making it look like you’ve got a larger gem than you might actually have. Its gentle curves and chic outline offer up a dose of sophistication that can elevate any look, making it a versatile choice that flatters every hand.

Another bonus of choosing an oval over other fancy shapes is its rounded edges, which are less likely to chip, offering a blend of beauty and durability that’s hard to beat. When it comes to setting this gem, the oval cut is as adaptable as it comes, sliding effortlessly into everything from a simple solitaire to more elaborate arrangements.

Final words

Selecting the ideal diamond shape for your engagement ring is all about blending your style with deeper symbolism. It’s essential to remember that this decision isn’t just for now—it’s for always. Go for a diamond shape that mirrors the enduring and unique nature of your relationship, capturing the essence of your partnership in each sparkle.