Gemstones have been treasured and admired for centuries, and they come in a wide range of cuts, each with its own unique characteristics and beauty. From the classic brilliant cut to the more modern princess cut, there is a gemstone cut to suit every taste and style.
In this blog, we will explore some of the most popular gemstone cuts - chances are that 90% of the gemstones that you will across in your lifetime, will belong to one of these categories.
1. Brilliant Cut
The round cut is the most popular and traditional gemstone cut. It is also known as the brilliant cut, and it is designed to maximize the amount of light that enters and reflects back out of the gemstone. The round cut is characterized by a symmetrical shape with 58 facets, giving it its brilliant sparkle and fire. The round cut is suitable for any gemstone, including diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. This cut is often used in engagement rings and other jewellery pieces because of its timeless and classic appeal.
Figure 1: A Brilliant-cut Diamond
2. Princess Cut
The princess cut is a square-shaped gemstone cut that has pointed corners and a pyramid shape. It has become increasingly popular over the past few decades due to its modern and clean lines. This cut is characterized by a total of 76 facets, which make it very sparkly and bright. The princess cut is typically used for diamonds, but it can also be used for other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The princess cut is a popular choice for engagement rings, as it is both modern and elegant.
Figure 2: A Princess-cut Diamond ring
3. Cushion Cut
The cushion cut is a square or rectangular-shaped gemstone cut with rounded corners. It is characterized by larger facets and a softer, more romantic feel. This cut has been around for over 200 years and was originally used for diamonds. However, it can also be used for other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The cushion cut is a popular choice for vintage-style engagement rings, as well as other jewellery pieces that require a more classic and elegant look.
Figure 3: A Cushion-cut Diamond
4. Emerald Cut
The emerald cut is a rectangular-shaped gemstone cut with cut corners. It is characterized by a step-cut design that creates a series of rectangular facets. This cut is intended to showcase the clarity and colour of the gemstone, rather than its sparkle. The emerald cut is most commonly used for emeralds, but it can also be used for diamonds, sapphires, and other gemstones. The emerald cut has a classic and elegant feel that is perfect for vintage-style engagement rings and other jewellery pieces.
Figure 4: An Emerald-cut Amethyst
5. Marquise Cut
The marquise cut is a long, narrow gemstone cut with pointed ends. It is characterized by a boat-shaped design with 58 facets that create a dramatic sparkle. This cut is often used for diamonds, but it can also be used for other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The marquise cut has a unique and elegant feel that is perfect for engagement rings and other jewellery pieces that require a more dramatic and eye-catching look.
Figure 5: A Marquise-cut Diamond
6. Pear Cut
The pear cut is a teardrop-shaped gemstone cut with one pointed end and one rounded end. It is characterized by a combination of round and marquise-shaped facets that create a unique and eye-catching sparkle. The pear cut is most commonly used for diamonds, but it can also be used for other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The pear cut is a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewellery pieces that require a unique and elegant look.
Figure 6: A Pear-cut Blue Sapphire
7. Radiant Cut
The radiant cut is a rectangular-shaped gemstone cut with cut corners, similar to the emerald cut. It is characterized by a combination of step-cut and brilliant-cut facets, which create a unique and fiery sparkle. The radiant cut is most commonly used for diamonds, but it can also be used for other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. This cut is a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewellery pieces that require a more modern and unique look.
Figure 7: A Radiant-cut Aquamarine
8. Oval Cut
The oval cut is a classic gemstone cut that is similar to the round cut, but it has an elongated shape. It is characterized by a symmetrical design with 56-58 facets, which creates a sparkling effect that is similar to the round cut. The oval cut is a versatile cut that can be used for a variety of gemstones, including diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. It is a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewellery pieces, as it has a classic and timeless appeal.
Figure 8: An Oval-cut Emerald
9. Asscher Cut
The Asscher cut is a square-shaped gemstone cut that has cut corners and a step-cut design. It is similar to the emerald cut, but with a more octagonal shape. The Asscher cut is characterized by a smaller number of larger facets, which create a unique and elegant sparkle. This cut is most commonly used for diamonds, but it can also be used for other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. The Asscher cut is a popular choice for vintage-style engagement rings and other jewellery pieces that require a more classic and timeless look.
Figure 9: An Asscher-cut Diamond
10. Heart Cut
The heart cut is a romantic and symbolic gemstone cut that is shaped like a heart. It is characterized by a symmetrical design with 59 facets, which create a sparkling and fiery effect. The heart cut is most commonly used for diamonds, but it can also be used for other gemstones such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds. This cut is a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewellery pieces that require a more romantic and symbolic look.
Figure 10: A Heart-cut, Pink Sapphire ring
Gemstone cuts are an important factor in determining the overall beauty and value of a gemstone. Each cut has its unique characteristics and features that make it suitable for different styles and tastes. When choosing a gemstone cut, it is important to consider factors such as the shape of the gemstone, the number and size of facets, and the overall design. By understanding the different types of gemstone cuts available, you can make an informed decision and choose a gemstone that is perfect for your needs and preferences.
It is equally important to consider the trade-off between the cut and carat weight. A larger carat weight may look impressive, but it can sacrifice the brilliance and overall beauty of the gemstone. On the other hand, a well-cut gemstone may have a smaller carat weight, but it will have a more impressive and sparkling appearance.
