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engagement ringYour diamond engagement ring, the symbol of lifelong love and commitment between you and your partner, has four unique features: cut, color, clarity and carat. Of these “4 C’s,” diamond cut is often confused with shape – but the two are very different. Diamond cut, which encompasses shape, refers to the reflection of light in proportion to its size. The physical contour of the stone is its shape. Let’s explore both features in more detail.

Defining Diamond Cut

Cut is measured on a grade scale from poor to excellent by the Gemology Institute of America. A diamond with excellent cut has an equal proportion of light to dark facets and reflects most of light that enters. On the other hand, a poorly cut diamond has disproportionate light and dark areas that reflect very little light.

Cut also has an impact on other visual effects that women look for in their engagement rings. A diamond with adequate brightness, fire, scintillation, polish and symmetry is ideal. When an engagement ring “dazzles” and “sparkles,” it has intense brightness and scintillation. Fire refers to the scattered light that produces quick flashes of color, while polish is the finished appearance of the stone. Lastly, symmetry refers to the alignment of the diamond’s sides in relation to light reflection.

What Is Diamond Shape?

Diamond shapes range from traditional to abstract. The distinction between cut and shape is often difficult to maintain, since terms can technically be used interchangeably. For instance, a round cut or princess cut diamond. 
loose diamonds
The top 10 shapes are:

  • Round
  • Princess
  • Cushion
  • Oval
  • Marquise
  • Emerald
  • Asscher
  • Heart
  • Radiant
  • Pear

While shape does have an impact on the illusion of sparkle and size, it is an aesthetic choice based on style and personal preference. For instance, most people want a brilliant diamond, but not everyone likes emerald shape.

At Hannoush Jewelers of Connecticut, we have expert knowledge of diamonds and can help you make the right choice for your fiancée. Visit one of our convenient CT locations today to shop the largest selection of loose diamonds and engagement rings in the area.