When it comes to diamonds, you’d be forgiven for thinking that the world is your oyster. After all, no other jewel provides such a rich and diverse range of options.
Whether you are going for the quirky, unusual, or classic, there’s a diamond for almost every taste and budget. But when it comes to selecting the best diamond for your budget and personal taste, things can get more complicated. Looking for custom diamonds? Click here for diamond engagement rings. Diamonds range vastly in quality and price. Because of their rarity and natural properties, diamonds are also graded according to their shape and size.
In most cases, these factors will have a big impact on your final purchase price. If you don’t know what makes one diamond slightly more expensive than another or which shapes are most popular among buyers in general, this article has everything you need to know about finding the perfect diamond shape for your budget.
What’s Your Budget?
Your budget will have a huge bearing on which diamonds you can afford and which you can’t. More specifically, your budget will determine which diamond shape you should opt for. As a general rule, round diamonds and fancy shapes can be more expensive to a considerable degree. Fancy shapes are also generally more popular with collectors than brides-to-be, so supply is often greater than demand.
The round brilliant cut is by far the most popular option for couples even though it may not be the most affordable diamond shape on the market. It’s worth noting that the round diamond is not a perfect circle. Instead, it’s a variation of what is also known as an “ideal cut diamond”. It features precision cutting, with all the facets and angles aligned perfectly.
Round Brilliance Or Square Shaped?
Round-brilliant diamonds remain the most popular shape among diamond shoppers regardless of budget. If you’ve got a little more cash to splash, you might consider opting for a round brilliant cut.
Square-shaped diamonds are significantly less expensive than round-brilliant diamonds because they require less cutting and less diamond rough waste. Square-shaped diamonds come in various cuts, including rectangular, emerald, and Asscher.
Emerald-shaped diamonds are often the most popular square-shaped diamonds. The emerald cut is a brilliant variation of the square cut diamond. It boasts a similar design but with slightly different proportions.
Asscher Cut
The Asscher cut is a variation of the square-shaped diamond. It is one of the rare diamond shapes but also one of the most brilliant. Diamonds cut in this shape are particularly eye-catching and are more affordable than other fancy-shaped diamonds.
It features cut corners with a very sharp and crisp finish. A combination of modern and sleek design, this type of cut is perfect for anyone who wants something a bit different and eye-catching.
Emerald Cut
The Emerald-cut diamond is also a type of square-shaped diamond with a slight variation in the standard proportions. This type of cut is a popular shape for couples and is often the shape that diamond buyers look for when opting for a square-shaped diamond.
It offers abundant reflection through its symmetrical step-cut lines. The emerald cut features a modern design and is ideal for anyone who wants something that emanates a regal and classic vibe. Because it’s a rarer shape, these diamond cuts are often considered by those who wish to get something classier without the enormous price tag.
Marquise-Cut
The marquise cut diamond is a long, narrow diamond shape with a distinct curve on both ends. Because of its elongated cut, it often tends to appear larger compared to other diamonds with an equal carat and size. The marquise cut is essentially a brilliant diamond modified to appear long and narrow. It has a very modern design and makes the wearer’s hand look slimmer, longer, and classier.
It is often the shape that many diamond buyers look for when opting for a long and narrow diamond. If you want the same brilliance with a lesser price tag compared to a round-cut, this type of diamond cut is what you should get.
Cushion Cut Diamond
The cushion cut features a square cut with rounded corners and softer edges. It appears larger than most cuts though not as brilliant as round-brilliant cut diamonds. The cushion cut however has more fire because of its larger tables and facets. It is the modern version of the “old mine cut”, and emanates a classic vintage style. Like most square-shaped cuts, the cushion cut costs a lot cheaper than round-brilliant cuts.
If you’re more into the value for money perspective, a Cushion cut diamond is your best deal.
Princess Cut Diamond
There’s also the second most popular diamond cut in the market, the princess cut. It is a lot cheaper than round-cut diamonds because of the process it goes through during the cutting process. Diamonds naturally grow square, and so processing it to a square or rectangular shape results in less waste. The princess cut would also appear bigger than any diamond cut of the same carat size, it is because it has larger tables and facets.
Conclusion
Diamonds are the world’s most popular gemstone for a reason. They are beautiful, and durable and comes in a variety of colors, size, and shapes. When choosing the best diamond for your budget and personal taste, it’s important to consider the diamond shape as well as size and color.
While round diamonds are the most popular choice, there are a whole lot of other options to choose from that can be more affordable without sacrificing beauty and value. Cheaper doesn’t mean lesser quality, at least not when we talk about diamonds. Before you begin shopping for diamonds, consider which shape will suit your budget and personal taste best. And remember, that ring is meant to symbolize your commitment and love so make it count!