Planning 411: Engagement Ring Cuts

From flowers to gown fabrics to ring cuts, there are just so many different aspects of wedding planning that it can get overwhelming very quickly. This page is here to serve as a reference point for the bride-to-be when making all of the most important decisions for her big day!

Engagement Ring Cuts

The first decision you'll make in the wedding planning process is the decision to get married! This decision is usually accompanied with a ring, but did you know there are many different styles of jewel cuts? Here are some of the most popular ones!

Marquise Cut

The marquise cut is a slender oval with pointed ends, typically with length-to-width ratios between 1.75 and 2.25. This shape is one of the oldest and was actually inspired by the smile of Marquise de Pompadour, the lover of Louis XIV - a great conversation starter when someone compliments your ring! This cut also makes your finger appear long and slender. 

Cushion Cut

The cushion cut, also known as the antique cut or pillow cut, is a rectangle with rounded corners. This cut was previously difficult to come by, as you could only find them in estate sales and auctions. Good news, though: they've gotten more popular recently and select diamond sellers are now offering them! This would definitely be a unique ring selection that would stand out in the crowd.

Emerald Cut

This popular cut, originally named for the jewel it was developed for, has cropped corners and "long, stair-step-like facets." Generally more rectangular in shape, this is a very elegant and sophisticated cut.

Asscher Cut

Named for the Asscher brothers of Holland who developed it in 1902, this cut is a more square version of the emerald cut. Like the emerald, it also has cropped corners. This cut has gained popularity recently, and though, like the cushion cut, it was difficult to find until recently, it can now be found in more and more jewelry stores.

Princess Cut

This is one of the most popular engagement ring cuts (and my personal favorite). It is square, with pointed corners, and was designed for getting the most brilliance from the diamond while still maintaining the square shape. Just be careful with the pointed corners - they tend to chip easier than cuts with cropped corners!

Round Brilliant Cut

The most popular of all the engagement ring shapes, the round cut lends itself to the most sparkle. And, because there is such a great variety of this shape available, it's a perfect choice for any budget!

Heart Cut

One of the more romantic cuts, the shape of the heart cut resembles its name. Essentially a pear cut with a cleft at the top, this shape will definitely stand out among the more geometric shapes.

Pear Cut

The pear cut diamond, also known as the tear-drop diamond, is a combination of the marquise cut and the round brilliant cut. Popular for its unique shape, this cut can also make your finger look longer and more slender.

Oval Cut

The oval cut is also a very popular choice, because it combines the great quality of the round brilliant cut with the flattering nature of the marquise cut. Developed in the 1950s/60s, it is a modern take on the classic round brilliant.

Radiant Cut

Generally a rectangular shape, though sometimes square, the radiant cut combines the brilliance of the round brilliant cut with the shape of the emerald cut. Similar to the princess cut, but with cropped corners.

Sources: Engagement Ring Style | Blue Nile | Martha Stewart Weddings | The Diamond Buying Guide

Photos: Martha Stewart Weddings | Diamond On Net | 1stdibs