Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most significant moments within a couple’s journey; symbolising their commitment and love. With an array of options available, the shape of the diamond or gemstone is a crucial element that defines the ring’s overall aesthetic and personal significance. From the classic round cut to the distinctive marquise, each shape carries its own unique charm. In this ultimate guide to engagement ring shapes, we will delve into the characteristics of each shape; helping you find the perfect ring that embodies your personal style. So keep reading to learn more!
The Ultimate Guide to Engagement Ring Shapes
Offering a taste of Art-Deco style, the Asscher diamond has an octagonal shape. It is cut in a similar way to emerald diamonds but with more brilliance. The Asscher shape highlights any inclusions, so picking a good clarity is of the utmost importance. An enchanting and unique shape, the distinctive Asscher style is a great choice for those who like something different; but still beautifully classic. If you want to truly enhance the unique design of the Asscher cut, a solitaire, shoulder or halo are your best choices; they complement the understated classic beauty of the cut perfectly.
Also known as the ‘pillow cut’, the cushion diamond brings a vintage feel with a romantic and classic shape. The shape itself is somewhere between round and square, and cushion-cut diamonds tend to have more sparkle than other shapes. For this reason and many more, they are one of the most popular choices for engagement rings. Cushion-shaped engagement rings are also one of the more affordable options, so if you’re conscious about your budget, this beautiful shape is a great choice.
The oval shape is perfect for those who adore the brilliance and classic style of a round cut, but seek something a little different. This is cut with the same number of facets as the round cut, however, the difference in shape lends the oval cut a more contemporary feel. Due to its elongated shape, oval looks at home in solitaire, shoulder and halo-style engagement rings. It’s important to note that because of this shape, the oval helps achieve the look of a longer slender finger. So if you already have longer fingers, it may be best to stay clear of this style. But if you have more petite fingers, this could be the most flattering shape for you!
Adored for its simplicity and timelessness, the round diamond is the most popular engagement ring shape; it will never go out of style. Cut with the optimal number of symmetrical facets, 58 to be exact, round diamond engagement rings ooze more fire and brilliance than any shape. As well as this, they have an incomparable sparkle. If this is at the top of your ‘must-have’ list, a round-cut engagement ring meets said requirement perfectly. The simple elegance of a round-cut diamond needs no fancy setting, so a solitaire setting works best; highlighting the traditional nature of the ring shape as it does so.
Princess cut diamonds are a square shape, cut with a brilliant facet structure to produce lots of sparkle. The unusual sharp-lined, angular shape is a popular choice for engagement rings, providing a contemporary look whilst offering exceptional brilliance. First crafted in the 1970s, the princess cut is perfectly suited to minimalist, refined ring designs. While a solitaire setting is the one that immediately comes to mind, why not go for something different and opt for a three-stone style? Just as elegant, but even more eye-catching, it makes a modern statement on the finger.
The emerald-cut diamond has a rectangular shape with rounded corners and long rectangular facets; each of which sits parallel to the edge of the diamond or other gemstone. This shape is designed to highlight a gem’s shine, but as it has a large open table, clarity imperfections are more obvious. Therefore, we advise considering a higher class of clarity such as VS1 or above. The emerald shape is very much on trend, so if you’re into fashion, and want something unusual, this type of engagement ring may be the one for you.
Feminine and bold, contemporary and edgy, Marquise cut engagement rings are seeing a growth in popularity; their elongated shape and sharp ends appeal to many. Legend has it that this diamond was first created at the behest of French monarch, King Louis XIV, so the shape has a somewhat regal feel to it. Due to an increased spread, Marquise diamonds appear larger than other shapes of the same carat weight, such as round or oval cut ones. As well as this, they tend to have an attractive price point. So if you’re looking to stretch your budget a little further, a Marquise-shaped engagement ring is a pretty and practical choice.
A symbol of love, this engagement ring shape is one for the hopeless romantics. The heart diamond shape is one of the hardest to come across. It can also be one of the most difficult to master, but its unmistakable shape catches the eye more readily. A stunning alternative to a traditional round cut ring, the heart-shaped diamond’s design radiates with fiery brilliance. It’s a great choice for those who want to remember their proposal; especially if it was a romantic Valentine’s Day one. However, due to the beautifully unique design of the ring, it is important to be one hundred per cent certain that it is something your bride-to-be would wear.
Also known as the ‘teardrop’, a pear-shaped engagement ring is a mix of oval and Marquise shapes. The rounded base and pointed tip of pear-shaped engagement rings give them a unique charm and stylish edge. While they look undeniably beautiful on the finger, there is a deeper, and even more beautiful, meaning to their shape. They symbolise tears of joy and also represent the idea of two people coming together to form one. So a pear-shaped engagement ring is a romantic choice for many couples. It’s of great importance to note the delicate nature of the shape; a halo or bezel-style setting works best as it protects the diamond from damage.
Much like the emerald, the radiant cut has a square shape and rounded corners. Radiant cuts, however, are a lesser-known shape. So they remain a unique choice that appeals to modern and contemporary tastes. Radiant cut diamonds are chosen for possessing both a geometric form and the lustrous, intense sparkle of a brilliant cut. Beautifully catching the light, this shape is incredibly timeless. Furthermore, radiant diamonds have cropped corners, so there are no vulnerable tips exposed to breakage. This, therefore, makes a radiant-shaped engagement ring a practical choice for those who are always on the go.
Choosing an engagement ring is one of the biggest life commitments, so it’s important to browse a wide selection. We stock a wide range on our website, but if you want a more personalised experience, come and visit us in-store at James Moore & Co (9 Warwick Road, Kenilworth, CV8 1HD).
What are your thoughts on our ultimate guide to engagement ring shapes? Would you buy an engagement ring from our Kenilworth store for yourself or your partner? Let us know in the comments below!
