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Shape: Deciding what you want
Shape means the intrinsic shape of the diamond
as seen from the top, or in its setting. |
Shape:
The 'cut' of a diamond actually encompasses its overall shape as well
as how well the shape is cut, including proportions, finish, and
symmetry. The basic shape of a diamond significantly affects its price.
The primary wholesale price list for three shapes of
diamonds is published monthly as the Rapaport Diamond Report. Rounds and
marquise shapes have their own unique price charts, while the charts
for pear shapes are used for all other shapes.
While it may not be possible to access the Rapaport Report
in all cases, most top jewelers are able to answer queries about shape
and value by consulting this monthly. However, remember that the
internet today influences diamond prices. There are several diamond web
sites competing for market share that offer very good prices and
enormous selections. This gives the customer today a very good chance of
finding the diamond of his or her choice at a very attractive price.
Prices in the Rapaport report depend on the shape, since
the more sought after shapes are costlier than the shapes that have less
demand. Prices also depend on how a diamond has shaped up from its
rough original shape - the closer the cut shape is to the original, the
lower the price. This is because less effort and diamond volume has been
lost during the cutting stage. Back to top
Round Brilliant Diamonds:
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The most popular shape preferred by over 75% of buyers. It is cut
according to a precise formula with 58-facets, divided among its crown
(top), girdle (widest part) and pavilion (base). This ensures maximum
brilliance. Back to top
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Princess Cut Diamond:
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This square or rectangular cut with numerous sparkling facets is a
relatively new cut and is flattering to a hand with long fingers when
worn as a solitaire. It is often embellished with triangular stones at
its sides. Back to top
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Emerald Cut Diamond:
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This is a rectangular shape with cut corners, typifying the classic
step cut. Its concentric broad, flat planes resemble stair steps. When
choosing square or rectangular cuts, remember that the square cuts
typically cost about 10% less for a diamond of the same weight and
quality as a round cut diamond. Back to top
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Asscher Diamonds:
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Asscher cut diamonds are actually cut on a variation of the Emerald cut,
known on a GIA Report as a 'Modified Square Emerald cut'. This style
was first created in 1902 by the Asscher brothers. It features a small
table, high crown, deep pavilion, and cut corners. In terms of sparkle,
this cut ranks alongside the Round Brilliant cut diamond. The Asscher
cut is a square cut diamond with 72 wide step facets and deep clipped
corners, which make the diamond resemble an octagon. Back to top
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Marquise Diamonds:
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This elongated shape with pointed ends is named after the Marquise
de Pompadour in the court of France's King, Louis XIV. This shape looks
best when used as a solitaire or when enhanced by smaller diamonds. Back to top
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Oval Diamonds:
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This even, perfectly symmetrical design is popular among women with
small hands or short fingers. The elongated shape gives a flattering
illusion of length to the hand. Back to top |
Radiant Cut Diamonds:
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This square or rectangular cut combines the elegance of the emerald
shape diamond with the brilliance of the round, and its 70 facets
maximize the effect of its color refraction. Back to top
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Pear Shaped Diamonds:
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This is a hybrid cut, combining the best of the oval and the
marquise. Shaped most like a sparkling teardrop, it is also another
shape flattering to short fingers, and looks particularly beautiful in
pendants or earrings.
For the most traditional pear-shaped diamond, look for a
length-to-width ratio between 1.45 and 1.75. Back to top
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Heart Shaped Diamonds:
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This ultimate symbol of romance is created with a pear-shaped diamond
that has a cleft at the top. The skill of the cutter determines the
beauty of the cut. Back to top
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Cushion Shaped Diamonds:
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Cushion cut diamonds are very popular. They are of a rectangular
shape, though more proportionately looking like a square. This cut is
sometimes also referred to as a 'pillow cut', because the cushion cut
has an open culet and a rectangular to square shape with rounded corners
which gives it the appearance of a pillow. The facet plan gives depth
to the diamond. The price that you pay for these diamonds depend on the
grade. An ideal choice is a 2 ct. Cushion Cut Diamond of the color 'G'
and 'VS2' clarity. Modern 2 ct. Cushion Cut Diamonds are also known as
Candlelight Diamonds, because their looks evoke a romantic ambience.
Their corners are rounded and they exhibit a high degree of returning
light, which makes them sparkle in an extraordinary way. Back to top
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Remember:
Among the other factors that influence your decision
about choosing the shape and the cut of your stone, look at Proportions.
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