Choosing the right diamond shape is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when purchasing a diamond, especially for an engagement ring. The shape not only impacts the overall appearance of the diamond but also reflects your style, personality, and how the diamond will complement the wearer’s hand and personal jewelry collection. Each diamond shape offers a unique aesthetic that can be bold, elegant, or timeless.
When it comes to popularity, two diamond shapes dominate the market: the princess cut diamond and the round brilliant cut diamond. These two cuts are chosen by millions for their beauty and versatility, but they differ in significant ways, from their light performance, affecting their sparkle and brilliance, to their price and durability. Whether you’re looking for something modern and edgy or classic and timeless, the choice between the princess cut and the round cut will significantly influence the final look of your jewelry.
In this guide, we’ll break down the key differences between the princess cut and the round brilliant cut, helping you make an informed decision about which shape suits your style, budget, and needs. Let’s explore the distinct qualities of each cut and how they compare to one another.
Understanding Diamond Cuts
A diamond cut refers to the precise arrangement of a diamond’s facets, which significantly impacts its overall brilliance and sparkle. A well-executed cut enhances the diamond’s ability to refract and reflect light, creating a stunning display of brilliance and fire. Conversely, a poorly cut diamond can appear dull and lifeless, regardless of its carat weight or clarity.
The cut of a diamond is one of the four Cs of diamond grading, alongside carat, color, and clarity. It plays a crucial role in determining the diamond’s beauty and value. A high-quality cut ensures that the diamond interacts with light in the most optimal way, maximizing its visual appeal.
There are several different types of diamond cuts, each with unique characteristics and advantages. The round brilliant cut is renowned for its unparalleled sparkle and timeless elegance, making it the most popular choice for engagement rings. The princess cut, with its modern, geometric shape and sharp corners, offers a contemporary alternative that retains a high level of brilliance. Other popular cuts include the emerald cut, known for its sophisticated, elongated shape, and the cushion cut, which combines a vintage feel with modern brilliance.
When choosing a diamond, understanding the importance of the cut can help you select a stone that not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time.
What is a Princess Cut Diamond?
History of the Princess Cut
The princess cut is one of the more modern diamond shapes, having gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s. Originally developed as an alternative to the traditional round brilliant cut, the princess cut was designed to retain as much of the rough diamond as possible during cutting, making it more efficient and cost-effective. The square or rectangular shape of the princess cut gives it a distinct, contemporary appearance, making it a favorite among those seeking a modern twist on traditional diamond cuts.
Key Characteristics of a Princess Cut Diamond
A princess diamond is easily recognizable by its sharp, square or rectangular shape and pointed corners. The cut typically features 58 facets, similar to the round brilliant cut, which helps it achieve high levels of brilliance and sparkle. However, because of its square shape, the light reflects differently in a princess cut diamond, giving it a unique, geometric sparkle.
One of the standout features of a princess cut diamond is its versatility in settings and styles. Its clean lines and sharp corners offer a modern aesthetic while still maintaining a high level of brilliance, making it one of the most popular cuts for engagement rings.
Advantages of Princess Cut Diamonds
There are several advantages to choosing a princess cut diamond:
- Modern look: The square or rectangular shape offers a contemporary feel, ideal for those who prefer modern, geometric designs.
- Affordable: Compared to round cut diamonds, princess cut diamonds are generally more affordable due to the efficient cutting process that retains more of the rough diamond.
- Brilliance: The princess cut is one of the most brilliant square-shaped diamonds, offering a sparkle comparable to the round cut.
Princess diamonds are cut to maximize light performance, offering a cost-effective yet brilliant option compared to round diamonds.
Ideal Settings for Princess Cut Diamonds
Princess cut diamonds look stunning in various settings, with popular choices including:
- Solitaire settings: A solitaire setting for a princess cut diamond ring emphasizes the stone’s brilliance and shape, making it a popular choice for those seeking simplicity and elegance.
- Halo settings: Surrounding the princess cut diamond with smaller stones enhances its sparkle and creates a dramatic effect.
What is a Round Brilliant Cut Diamond?
History of the Round Brilliant Cut
The round brilliant cut is the most traditional and iconic diamond shape, with its roots dating back to the 17th century. Over the centuries, the cut has been refined to maximize light reflection, resulting in unparalleled brilliance. Today, the round brilliant cut is the most popular diamond shape, chosen for everything from engagement rings to earrings and necklaces. Its timeless appeal and ability to reflect light in a dazzling way make it a go-to choice for those seeking a classic, sophisticated look.
Key Characteristics of a Round Cut Diamond
The round brilliant cut diamond is defined by its symmetrical round shape and 58 expertly crafted facets. These facets are arranged in such a way that they maximize the diamond’s ability to reflect light, producing the signature sparkle that makes this cut so desirable. The round cut’s perfect symmetry and faceting pattern make it the benchmark for brilliance among all diamond shapes.
Advantages of Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds
Some key advantages of round brilliant cut diamonds include:
- Maximum brilliance: The round cut is specifically designed to reflect the most light, creating superior sparkle compared to other shapes.
- Timeless elegance: The round cut’s symmetrical design and long-standing popularity give it a classic, enduring appeal.
- Versatility: The round brilliant cut is versatile and looks beautiful in almost any setting, from simple solitaire rings to elaborate vintage designs.
Ideal Settings for Round Cut Diamonds
Round brilliant cut diamonds are adaptable to various settings. Some popular options include:
- Prong settings: This classic setting elevates the diamond and allows maximum light to pass through, enhancing its brilliance.
- Bezel settings: A metal rim surrounds the diamond, offering a sleek, modern look while providing extra security.
- Pavé settings: Small diamonds encrust the band, adding extra sparkle and drawing attention to the center round diamond.
Princess Cut vs. Round Cut—A Comparison
Brilliance and Sparkle
When comparing the brilliance of the princess cut vs. round cut, both offer excellent sparkle, but they achieve it in different ways. The round brilliant cut stone, with its 58 facets, is engineered to reflect the most light. Its symmetrical design creates a sparkle that is unmatched by any other cut, making it the top choice for those who prioritize maximum brilliance.
The princess cut, while also offering high levels of brilliance, reflects light in a different way. Its sharp, angular shape and geometric facets give it a more modern, slightly less sparkly appearance compared to the round cut. However, the princess cut’s brilliance is still impressive, especially considering it is one of the best choices for square-shaped diamonds.
Shape and Appearance
The most obvious difference between these two cuts is their shape. The round cut diamond is perfectly circular, which gives it a soft, classic look that complements any style or occasion. Its roundness is often associated with timelessness and versatility, making it the most popular choice for engagement rings.
On the other hand, the princess-cut diamond features a square or rectangular shape with sharp corners, giving it a more contemporary, modern appearance. This cut is ideal for those who want something a bit more unique and edgy, without sacrificing brilliance.
Cost Comparison
One of the biggest differences between these two diamond shapes is the price. Princess cut diamonds tend to be more affordable than round brilliant cut diamonds of the same carat weight. This is because the cutting process for princess cut diamonds retains more of the rough diamond, resulting in less waste. In contrast, round brilliant cut diamonds require more of the rough diamond to be removed, increasing the cost.
For buyers on a budget, the princess cut offers excellent value, as it can give you a larger diamond for a lower price compared to a round cut.
Durability and Wear
Durability is another factor to consider in the princess cut vs. round comparison. The princess cut’s sharp corners are more prone to chipping or damage, especially if the diamond is not set properly. This makes it essential to choose a setting that protects the corners, such as a bezel or halo setting.
The round cut diamond, with its smooth, rounded edges, is less prone to chipping and is generally considered more durable. This makes the round cut a better option for those with an active lifestyle or those seeking a diamond that will withstand daily wear.
Face-up Size
At the same carat weight, the round brilliant cut diamonds often appear slightly larger when viewed from above (the “face-up” size) compared to princess cut diamonds.
Popular Preferences and Occasions
When it comes to choosing between the princess cut vs. round cut, it often comes down to personal preference and the occasion. Round cut diamonds are the most popular choice for engagement rings due to their timelessness and versatility, fitting both traditional and modern styles.
A princess cut ring, on the other hand, is favored by those who prefer a more modern, geometric look. They are also popular for fashion-forward engagement rings or those who want to stand out with something different.
How to Choose Between Princess Cut and Round Cut Diamonds
Style Preference
Your personal style or the style of the wearer plays a significant role in choosing between a princess cut diamond and a round brilliant cut diamond. If you or your partner prefers clean lines, a modern aesthetic, or unique, geometric designs, the princess cut may be the perfect choice. For those who favor timeless elegance and a classic, versatile look, the round cut is hard to beat.
Hand Shape and Finger Size
The shape of the diamond can also affect how it looks on your hand. Round cut diamonds tend to elongate the fingers and create a balanced, symmetrical look. Princess cut diamonds, with their sharp, angular shape, are better suited for those with longer fingers or those seeking a more distinctive, statement-making look.
Budget Considerations
If budget is a significant factor, a princess cut diamond may offer more value for your money. Due to the cutting process, princess cuts tend to be more affordable than round cuts of the same carat weight. However, it’s essential to balance price with what’s most important to you—whether it’s brilliance, shape, or size.
Matching with Other Jewelry
Consider how your chosen diamond cut will match with your existing jewelry collection. Round cut diamonds are extremely versatile and complement a wide range of styles, from minimalist to vintage. Princess cut diamonds work best with modern, sleek designs, making them an excellent choice for those who prefer a more contemporary look.
Expert Advice
When choosing between princess cut and round cut diamonds, it’s always a good idea to see the stones in person. A professional jeweler can help you compare the cuts and assess the quality, sparkle, and overall appearance of each diamond to ensure you make the right decision.
Certification and Quality Considerations
Importance of Diamond Certification
Regardless of whether you choose a princess cut or round brilliant cut diamond, ensuring that your diamond is certified by a reputable gemological institute like the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the American Gem Society (AGS), or the International Gemological Institute (IGI) is crucial. Certification guarantees that the diamond has been evaluated and graded for its quality, including factors such as cut, clarity, color, and carat weight.
Key Factors to Check in Certification
When reviewing a diamond certificate, pay special attention to the cut grade, clarity, color, and carat weight. These factors will influence the diamond's brilliance, value, and overall appearance. For round brilliant cut diamonds, check for symmetry, proportions, and polish, as these elements will affect how the diamond reflects light. For princess cut diamonds, consider the girdle thickness and depth & table percentages, as these factors can impact the diamond’s durability and appearance.
Popular Trends in Princess and Round Cut Diamonds
Current Trends for Princess Cut Diamonds
Recently, princess cut diamonds have gained popularity in contemporary designs. Sleek, modern settings that emphasize the sharp angles of the princess cut are becoming increasingly sought-after. Additionally, multi-stone rings featuring a central princess cut diamond flanked by smaller stones are trending, offering a balance between classic and modern styles.
Current Trends for Round Cut Diamonds
Round brilliant cut diamonds continue to dominate the engagement ring market, with their timeless appeal and celebrity endorsements driving trends. Many people are opting for round cut diamonds in pavé settings or classic solitaires, highlighting the stone’s brilliance. The enduring popularity of this cut ensures that it remains a top choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
Innovative Settings for Both Cuts
Innovative settings are emerging that combine different diamond cuts to create unique and modern designs. Halo settings featuring round diamonds around a central princess cut, or vice versa, are becoming increasingly popular. Additionally, vintage-inspired designs with intricate detailing are making a comeback, giving both cuts a fresh, stylish update.
Trust Carbon Diamonds for Your Next Diamond Purchase
When it comes to choosing the perfect diamond shape, there is no definitive “right” answer—it all depends on your personal style, budget, and preferences. Round brilliant cut diamonds offer timeless elegance and superior sparkle, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a classic and versatile look. On the other hand, princess cut diamonds, with their modern, geometric shape and unique brilliance, are perfect for those who want something bold and contemporary.
By considering factors such as brilliance, durability, price, and personal style, you can make an informed decision between a princess cut and a round cut diamond. Both cuts have their own distinct beauty and advantages, so it’s all about finding the one that resonates with you. To ensure you make the best choice, consult with a professional jeweler and explore both options in person.
At Carbon Diamonds, we are committed to helping you find the perfect diamond that not only meets your expectations but exceeds them. With a focus on ethical sourcing and sustainable practices, we create unique and timeless pieces that will tell your story for generations to come. Whether you’re looking for a princess cut or a round brilliant cut diamond, our team of experts is here to guide you through every step of the process.
We believe that a client is forever, and the care and attention we provide to each customer reflects that. Whether you visit us in-store or shop with us online, every interaction is treated as a curated experience tailored to your needs. Explore our collection, and let us help you discover the diamond that speaks to your style and will be cherished forever.
At Carbon Diamonds, your experience is our priority—because we believe that every piece of jewelry should be as unforgettable as the moments it celebrates. Contact us to get started!
