6 Engagement Ring Diamond Shapes to Know

Choosing the right engagement ring can be thrilling and nerve-wracking, especially when you want everything to be just right for that big moment. With so many diamond shapes out there, how do you know which one is the perfect fit?

Each cut has its own unique charm, blending sparkle, elegance, and personality in different ways. Just like when you know your partner is “the one,” knowing the differences between diamond shapes will help you pick the ring that feels like it’s “the” ring, too. In this guide, we’ll walk you through some of the most popular diamond cuts of engagement rings, making it easier to choose the ring that will make the moment unforgettable.

The round-cut diamond is a true classic and is the most popular choice for engagement rings. With 58 facets, this cut is designed to reflect the most light, giving it unparalleled brilliance and fire. The round-cut diamond is hard to beat if you're looking for a ring that sparkles from every angle. But why is it so popular?

The answer lies in its versatility. Round-cut diamonds look stunning in any setting, from simple solitaires to intricate halos. They also do a great job of hiding inclusions, which are tiny imperfections or flaws within the diamond.

The oval-cut diamond has surged in popularity in recent years and it's easy to see why. This shape offers the brilliance of a round-cut but with a unique, elongated form that can make your finger look longer and slimmer. Oval diamonds are also known for their "spread," which means they often appear larger than other diamonds of the same carat weight.

Oval diamonds are a great choice if you’re looking for something that’s both classic and modern. They have a way of standing out without being too flashy. One thing to watch out for, though, is the "bow tie effect," a dark area that can appear across the center of the diamond. It’s important to view an oval diamond in person to ensure it has minimal bow tie.

If you’re after something truly unique, the pear-cut diamond might be the one for you. Also known as a teardrop diamond, this shape combines the best of both worlds. You’ll have the brilliance of a round-cut with the elegant, elongated shape of a marquise, which tapers to a point at one end. The result is a diamond that’s both eye-catching and elegant.

Pear-cut diamonds, like oval and marquise cuts, have a slimming effect on the finger. However, their pointed tip can make them more susceptible to chipping, so it’s essential to find a setting that protects this delicate point.

For those who prefer clean lines and understated elegance, the emerald-cut diamond is an excellent choice. Emerald-cut diamond engagement rings feature step cuts that create a hall-of-mirrors effect. This cut gives the diamond a unique depth and a sophisticated, vintage feel.

The emerald cut is known for its large, open table, which can make inclusions and color more noticeable. Because of this, it’s important to choose a diamond with a higher clarity grade. But what the emerald cut lacks in sparkle, it makes up for in its striking appearance. This shape is often associated with a sleek, minimalist aesthetic, making it a favorite for modern and vintage-inspired engagement rings.

Cushion-cut diamonds have been around for centuries, but they’re anything but outdated. With their soft, rounded edges and pillow-like shape, cushion cuts have a romantic, vintage appeal that’s hard to resist. This shape is also incredibly versatile, working well with both classic and contemporary settings.

Cushion-cut diamonds are known for their brilliant facets, which help hide inclusions and enhance the stone’s sparkle. They come in both square and rectangular shapes, making it easier to decide.

6. Marquise Diamond

When it comes to selecting custom engagement rings, clarity is an essential factor to consider. Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external flaws, known as inclusions and blemishes. While most inclusions are invisible to the naked eye, they can impact the diamond's overall brilliance and value.

Understanding how to choose the best clarity grade for your diamond will help you strike the right balance between beauty and budget. Here are a few tips to help you select the best clarity for your engagement ring:

• Setting: Certain settings, like halo or pave, can help hide inclusions, allowing you to buy a lower clarity grade without sacrificing appearance.
• Size: Larger diamonds tend to show inclusions more than smaller ones. If you're opting for a bigger stone, consider choosing a higher clarity grade.
• Cut: A well-cut diamond can mask minor inclusions. So, it's possible to select a lower clarity grade while still achieving a stunning sparkle.
• Clarity Grade: Familiarize yourself with the GIA clarity scale, which ranges from Flawless (FL) to Included (I). Most eye-clean diamonds, meaning you can't see any inclusions or flaws with your eye, fall within the Very Slightly Included (VS1) to Slightly Included (SI2) range. These grades indicate that while there are minor imperfections, they aren't noticeable without magnification and don't affect the diamond's beauty.

Choosing the right clarity grade is about finding what works best for your needs and budget. At Valerie Madison, we recommend selecting a diamond that is eye-clean while also considering the overall design and setting of your engagement ring. Our team is here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring you find a ring that meets your expectations for beauty and brilliance.

Which shape is the best? The truth is, there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. The best diamond shape is the one that resonates with you and fits your fiancée's hand. What matters most is choosing a shape that reflects your personal love story. At Valerie Madison, we specialize in helping you find the perfect women's or men's engagement ring that fits your vision.

When it comes to choosing the right diamond shape for your engagement ring, it’s all about finding what feels right for you. Each shape offers something unique, whether it’s a round diamond’s timeless sparkle or an emerald cut’s elegant lines.

At Valerie Madison, we’re here to guide you through the process, helping you select a ring that’s as special as your love story. Explore our collection of engagement rings and find the one that’s perfect for you. Ready to make your choice? Let Valerie Madison help you shine.