The terms "cut" and "shape" seem to be interchangeable, but this can lead to confusion for customers.  Technically, a cut refers to how well a diamond's facets are proportioned and finished which can affect the radiance, while the shape of a diamond refers to the geometrical outline of the stone like a heart shape.

ASSCHER

This was made popular in the 1920s by the Asscher Diamond Company in Amsterdam. Many diamond experts compare the facets of a properly cut Asscher to a seemingly endless hallway lined with reflective mirrors, radiating a great deal of shine.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Feminine, special, meticulous and authoritative.

CUSHION

CushionThe cushion Diamond shape resembles a pillow, hence the name. Created during the Art Deco period, it has become popular due to the demand for vintage style jewellery.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Likes individuality, kind, traditional and family orientated.

EMERALD

Their pavilion, made of successive step facets creates a remarkably elegant look. The thing you should probably be aware of emerald cuts is that they aren’t as brilliant or fiery as the rounds.

Symbolic meaning of wearer's personality: Charming, classy, attention seeking, confident and straightforward.

HEART

The extraordinary skill of the cutter determines the beauty of this shape. The heart shape diamond is perhaps the most romantic of all the fancy cuts and is quite often the best diamond shape for an engagement ring.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Emotional, thoughtful, feminine, affectionate and sensitive.

MARQUISE

The smile of the Marquise de Pompadour inspired this shape which was then commissioned by the Sun King, France's Louis XIV, who wanted a Diamond to match it. A marquise (pronounced mar-kee) with its extravagant appearance, can make you the centre of attention at a party. A marquise is also sometimes known as a Navette.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Stylish, flair for drama, daring, innovative and full of zest.

OVAL

Oval diamonds have a different length-to-width ratio than a round brilliant and, when worn by small handed women, this creates an appearance of elongating hands and fingers.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Elegant, stable, disciplined, risk-taker and embraces individuality.

PEAR

A pear cut combines the oval and marquise shapes. It is the hybrid shape that looks like a sparkling teardrop and is especially attractive for pendants and earrings. It also beautifully compliments the average size hand and fingers by making them look longer and appear more feminine.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Has exquisite tastes, adventurous, romantic and passionate.

PRINCESS

A square or rectangular shape with many facets. This is a relatively new cut and is particularly attractive on longer fingers. An ideal choice for trendsetters or fashionable women. The princess is one of the most popular non-round shapes.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Sensible, efficient leader, organised, bold and fun-loving.

ROUND BRILLIANT

Known in the trade as Round Brilliant because its cut maximises light return (sparkle). Over 75% of the diamonds sold today are Round Brilliant. Its shape lends itself to many different ring styles and is very versatile. It has a flattering appearance on most hand shapes.

Symbolic meaning of wearer’s personality: Empathetic, dependable, honest, faithful and trustworthy.

Please contact us if you need any more information on diamond shapes. We will be happy to answer any of your questions.