September, 2025

What Is a Diamond Cut?

A diamond, in its raw form, holds infinite promise. But it is the cut that awakens its soul. From brilliance to shape, all types of diamond cuts are designed to reveal a stone’s fullest expression of light. At Indriya, we see cutting not as a technique alone, but as the quiet craft of transformation, where precision meets poetry.

Cut vs. Shape – What’s the Difference?

Though often used interchangeably, cut and shape are not the same. Shape is what the eye sees—round, oval, pear, and more. It defines the silhouette.

Cut, however, determines how a diamond interacts with light, how it captures brilliance, reflects clarity, and reveals its true character. The different kinds of diamond cuts reflect a careful harmony of proportions, polish, and balance, each designed to bring a diamond to life.

Why Diamond Cut Matters in Jewellery

A well-cut diamond isn’t just radiant but also feels alive against the skin. It heightens emotion, drawing the eye and holding it, moment after moment. Whether it graces a diamond necklace or a pair of elegant earrings, the right cut transforms jewellery into something unforgettable.

From daily-wear diamond bangles to bespoke pendants crafted for once-in-a-lifetime moments, brilliance is not only seen but felt.

Different Types of Diamond Cuts

There are many types of diamond cuts, each influencing how the gem looks, feels, and sparkles. Let us understand the popular ones below:

1. Round Brilliant Cut

The round brilliant cut is an eternal classic. With 58 precisely placed facets, it delivers unmatched sparkle. Universally adored, this cut lends its timeless glow to everything from diamond bracelets to refined pendants.

2. Princess Cut

Bold in geometry and rich in brilliance, the princess cut offers a modern take on elegance. Its square silhouette and pointed corners (often with 76 facets) embody a sense of strength and symmetry. It is beloved in contemporary bridal jewellery and diamond mangalsutra designs that balance tradition and edge.

3. Emerald Cut

The emerald cut is an ode to refinement. With its elongated step-cut facets and mirror-like reflections, it evokes clarity, poise, and understated luxury. Less about sparkle, more about depth, it’s ideal for heritage-style diamond pendants or sophisticated rings.

4. Cushion Cut

Soft, romantic, and luminous, the cushion cut features 58+ facets and a square shape with rounded corners. Favoured for its antique charm, it brings warmth and character to heirloom-inspired jewellery and bridal pieces.

5. Oval Cut

Elegant and elongated, the oval cut offers the brilliance of a round with a more unique silhouette. Typically with 56 to 58 facets and a length-to-width ratio between 1.3 and 1.5,  it’s flattering shape for bespoke diamond chains and modern engagement rings

6. Pear Cut (Teardrop)

Delicate yet daring, the pear cut tapers into a point, creating an impression both soft and striking. It usually features 58 facets and is loved for its asymmetry. Whether worn in diamond earrings or solitaire pendants, it captures the poetry of individuality.

7. Marquise Cut

The marquise cut, among the most distinctive types of diamond cuts, is both dramatic and regal. Its elongated form and pointed tips evoke vintage glamour, making it a striking choice for ornate diamond necklaces or bold cocktail rings. They’re ideal for those who carry their legacy with flair.

8. Radiant Cut

Combining the fire of a round brilliant with the angular elegance of an emerald cut, the radiant cut features 70 facets and is bold, contemporary, and magnetic. A beautiful choice for expressive diamond jewellery, especially when the goal is presence and personality.

9. Asscher Cut

Structured, symmetrical, and architectural, the Asscher cut is a masterpiece of order and light. With step-cut facets and deep corners, it evokes a bygone era of elegance. It’s ideal for those who value depth over dazzle.

Additional Noteworthy Cuts

  • Trillion Cut: A triangular shape full of bold angles and flair, perfect for accent stones.

  • Heart Cut: The ultimate romantic symbol, often used in bespoke solitaires.

  • Baguette Cut: A step-cut with a rectangular form, often used as elegant side stones.

  • Old Mine & Old European Cuts: Vintage precursors to modern cuts, beloved for their history and charm.

GIA Diamond Cut Grading Explained

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) developed a global standard to evaluate different types of diamond shapes and cuts. Unlike carat or clarity, cut directly influences how a diamond reflects light and dazzles the eye.

Grading Factors: Proportions, Symmetry & Polish

A diamond’s cut is assessed through three essential elements:

  • Proportions – the angles and relative dimensions.

  • Symmetry – how evenly facets align and mirror one another.

  • Polish – the smoothness of the diamond's surface.

These attributes influence how light travels through a diamond, defining its performance, presence, and poetry.

The Cut Scale: Excellent to Poor

The GIA grading scale ranges from excellent to poor:

  • Excellent: Maximum brilliance and precision.

  • Very Good: High-quality light return with minimal compromise.

  • Good: Decent sparkle but less vibrancy.

  • Fair to Poor: Noticeable loss of radiance.

Choosing the Right Diamond Cut for You

Several factors can help you decide which types of diamond cuts feel right, such as:

1. Style Preferences & Budget

  • If you seek timeless elegance, the round brilliant is unmatched.

  • For a modern, structured feel, princess or radiant cuts offer presence.

  • If vintage charm calls to you, cushion, emerald, or Asscher cuts are ideal.

  • Oval, pear, and marquise cuts often offer greater visual size per carat.

When exploring all diamond cuts and shapes, allow your preferences to lead with purpose and poetry.

2. Diamond Cuts for Everyday vs. Occasion Wear

  • Everyday Wear: Round, oval, and cushion cuts are durable and timeless.

  • Occasional Wear: Pear, marquise, and Asscher cuts shine for special moments.

Explore the Most Elegant Types of Diamond Cuts at Indriya

We believe all types of diamond cuts reveal more than just light; they reveal your taste. Whether discovering different shapes of diamond cuts or seeking a design that mirrors your journey, we’re here to guide you with artistry and care. Visit your nearest Indriya store and explore diamond jewellery that speaks to you. 

FAQs

1. Which diamond cut has the most sparkle?

The round brilliant cut offers the most sparkle, designed with 58 facets to maximise light return and brilliance.

2. What is the difference between diamond cut and diamond shape?

Shape refers to the diamond’s outline (round, oval, pear). Cut refers to how well it is faceted and finished, impacting its sparkle and overall quality.

3. Is a round or princess cut better for everyday wear?

Round cuts are more durable due to their curved edges. Princess cuts offer a modern look but require careful settings for their pointed corners.

4. Are certain diamond cuts more affordable?

Yes. Types of diamond cuts like oval, emerald, and cushion often offer more visual size and beauty per carat than round brilliants.