When determining the perfect engagement ring for your loved one, you may find yourself a bit lost, feeling overwhelmed by the multitude of options. It may seem like enough to simply know that you want a diamond, but is it? Well, it’s certainly a good place to start! But did you know that there are actually a variety of diamond shapes to choose from? Each shape is different and each can completely transform the style of an engagement ring. Once you’re certain it’s a diamond you want, then it’s time to navigate diamond shapes to narrow down the perfect engagement ring for your unique bride-to-be. The following are some of the most popular shaped diamonds from the classic to the more unusual.

Round Brilliant Cut

The round brilliant cut diamond is by far the most popular and traditional choice for an engagement ring. This classic look represents timelessness and everlasting love. These diamonds are cut to maximize their radiance. Its round shape maximizes the potential for sparkle since it has a greater surface area than other diamonds. A round diamond also speaks to the subtle elegance of the woman wearing it. It is a wonderful option for women who want a ring style that will outlast trends that come and go. Round brilliant cut diamonds are best suited for slightly larger fingers as they look sophisticated and elegant; by contrast, they are not very flattering to thin fingers.

Cushion Cut

This diamond shape is a combination of a square and round cut; the diamond is square, but with rounded corners, so it resembles a cushion. Cushion cut diamonds are a close second in popularity to round brilliant cut diamonds, and are often less pricey. Because of their large facets, cushion cut diamonds tend to look bigger than other shaped stones. Many colored diamonds are cushion cut, as this shape often retains color better than others. Given their distinct shape, cushion cut diamonds best fit long, wide fingers.

Princess Cut

The princess cut diamond has a four-sided square shape similar to cushion cuts, though instead the diamond’s corners are sharper and more defined. Princess cuts sometimes look more rectangular than square. Similar to round-cut diamonds, princess cuts compliment most ring band styles, but with a modern twist. This is what makes princess cut diamonds such a popular choice for engagement rings. Being a square-shaped diamond, princess cuts look best on longer fingers.

Hexagonal

This remarkable diamond shape is unique to Hearts On Fire®. Its appeal is owed to the fact that it’s actually composed of a large round-cut diamond at the center, surrounded by a halo of tinier round-cut diamonds. The unusual shape especially stands out against colored metals, like rose gold. It looks absolutely stunning on longer fingers and out sparkles any other diamond cut.

Pear Cut

An uncommon shape for an engagement ring, pear cut diamonds are a rare find. This vintage inspired design is sure to capture attention. The teardrop shaped stone is both lavish and delicate; in combination with a diamond band, this engagement ring personifies beauty and glamour. Elizabeth Taylor famously wore a pear shaped diamond engagement ring gifted to her by Richard Burton. Because of its elongated style, the pear cut is most suitable for women with shorter fingers, as it helps to lengthen their appearance.

Marquise Cut

This luxurious design originated in the 18^th century, when King Louis XV of France wished to have a diamond designed to resemble his mistress’ lips. This cut was most popular in the 1980s, but is making a steady comeback thanks to its vintage allure. Despite the marquise cut’s narrow, elongated shape, this diamond is excellent for maximizing its perceived size. This is because marquise cut diamonds tend to have a larger surface area than many other diamond shapes. Just like other narrow shapes, the marquise cut diamond is great for making the finger appear longer and slenderer.

Unique Engagement Rings San Diego

A beautiful engagement ring is as special as its wearer. At Leo Hamel Fine Jewelry & Engagement Rings Store, we want to help you pick an engagement ring that is as stunning and unique as your future bride herself. Visit our San Diego showroom and our staff will be glad to walk you through the various shapes and styles to help you select a diamond that you and your loved one will be pleased with. You’ll be able to choose from a variety of new, vintage, and even antique engagement rings, and find the perfect shape for her heart’s desire.