Diamond Cuts and Shapes

A slight variation on the classic round stone, the oval diamond is another one that exudes elegance and timeless style.

It can seem to extend the size of a smaller finger, and the diamond itself can appear to be larger than it actually is. The Gemological Institute of America doesn't grade oval diamonds for cut, so it's especially important to have a conversation with your jeweler to discuss the stone and make sure it offers optimal brilliance for its size and shape. He or she can also assist you in identifying the bowtie effect that this shape is susceptible to. While it can be invisible to the naked eye, professional inspection of the diamond can show a dark area that stretches across the center of the stone. It's present in all oval diamonds, but the degree to which it shows varies.

Also known as pillow cut, the cushion cut diamond shape is somewhat of a variation of the princess shape.

Both have a square design, but the rounded corners of the cushion cut is what sets this shape apart from the rest. It's these rounded corners that also give it a softer romantic appeal. For exceptional dimensions, opt for a stone that's slightly more elongated, which will give you optimal brilliance and captivate the eye with its beauty. Several hundred years ago when this shape first came into existence, it was the most popular choice - much like the round stone is today. For those who value tradition, this is quite possibly the perfect shape to wear for a lifetime.

If you're having trouble deciding between the classic characteristics of an oval cut diamond and the striking style of the marquise, a pear shape might be the perfect option for you.

Much like the name implies, the stone resembles that of a pear, with one end rounded and the other coming together at a point. The most valuable pear shaped diamonds have symmetry throughout. Look for the oval end to have a perfectly rounded edge, and make sure the pointed end lines up exactly across from the center of the oval. As with the oval cut, there is a chance that the bowtie effect could be visible. Check to make sure that it's not present to the naked eye before deciding on the stone.

The marquise diamond is less common than many of the others, but it offers a rare stone the opportunity to be even more special for the woman who wears it.

A long stone with two pointed ends is characteristic of this shape, and is a beautiful choice for those with slender fingers who wish to draw more attention to them. Without a doubt, this bold shape will grab the attention of all who take a look. Much like the oval diamond, the marquise's narrow cut can cause the gem to appear larger than it truly is, which further supports its bold, striking beauty. This is the shape for those who like to steal the show and have all eyes on them. In fact, the shape was created at the order of a king who sought a diamond that best matched his self-proclaimed "perfectly shaped mouth."

The asscher stone is another less common shape that produces a very unique look.

With a step-cut, much like the emerald, the asscher cut has a large table that makes it crucial to find a high clarity stone. While the emerald is rectangular in appearance, the asscher is more of a square shaped that, because of its other angles, can sometimes look like an octagon. The shape peaked in popularity in the 1920s when the Gatsby style was in effect, and you can almost envision the stone gracing the gloved finger of a classic flapper girl. Currently, it's gaining in popularity and helps pay homage to one of the most fashionable generations of all time.