Diamond Shapes Guide: What Are They

Alicia Briggs | May 22, 2023

When it comes to choosing a diamond, the first thing to consider is the diamond shape, as it is the diamond’s most noticeable feature. Understanding what the different diamond shapes are will help you choose the best shape for you and that perfectly represents your love. Use this diamond shape guide to find the VRAI created diamond that truly suits you.

For complimentary assistance in your selection, book an appointment with our diamond experts.

What Are Diamond Shapes?

A Diamond shape is the diamond’s physical, geometric form. It’s usually the most distinguishable feature of a diamond, considered its personality and a symbol of self-expression.

Diamond shapes are split into two categories: round diamonds and fancy-shaped diamonds. The diamond shape is one of the most important things to consider when choosing a diamond, as it will greatly determine the appearance, meaning, and value of a diamond.

What Is The Difference Between A Diamond Shape And A Diamond Cut?

Diamond shape and diamond cut are often confused as they both play an important role in the appearance of a diamond. However, they are two different things.

Diamond shape refers to a diamond's exterior form, noticeable even from a distance. The diamond cut refers to a diamond’s facets and is best seen up close. Different diamond cuts will determine how the diamond reflects light, i.e. how brilliant a diamond is.

How Many Different Diamond Shapes Are There?

You choose between 31 different VRAI created diamond shapes, both classic and unique.

Diamonds can be cut into any shape, which means there are numerous possibilities for different types of diamond shapes. That being said, there are 10 main diamond shapes that you’ll consistently find, featured below. These timeless shapes are commonly featured in rings or bought as loose diamonds.

There are then numerous unique diamond shapes that are harder to find and rarely used as center stones. These shapes are typically used for fine jewelry or side stones, such as Baguette cut diamonds.

What Is The Best Diamond Shape?

The best diamond shape is the one that you love. Every diamond shape is beautiful and offers something special. Certain diamond shapes are better for size, brilliance, different styles, or jewelry types.

Overall, the Round Brilliant is by far the most popular diamond shape in the world, accounting for 50-75% of all diamonds. Oval shaped diamonds, however, are the most sought-after VRAI created diamonds.

What Are The Best Diamond Shapes For Engagement Rings?

When choosing a diamond shape for an engagement ring, personal preference and taste must come first. That being said, the most popular diamond shapes for engagement rings, and wedding rings, are the 10 classic shapes featured below.

10 Top Types Of Diamond Shapes

The following 10 diamond shapes are the most beloved and enduring diamond shapes. These shapes are primarily chosen as the center stone for engagement rings or wedding rings. They will look beautiful in any piece of diamond jewelry, however. We’ve included what makes them special and which of the diamond 4cs to prioritize.

1.Round Brilliant Diamond Cuts

The Round Brilliant cut diamond is a classic shape that stands the test of time and is the perfect balance of proportion and symmetry. The Round Brilliant’s poetic curves come full circle to signify eternal love, beautifully highlighted in any VRAI engagement ring setting.

2.Oval Cut Diamonds

This soft silhouette with its elongated shape is one of our most sought-after shapes. Oval cut diamonds have a slender body that makes them appear larger and your fingers slimmer. Oval cut diamonds are less prone to chipping and hide inclusions well.

3.Emerald Cut Diamonds

Emerald cut diamonds are one of the oldest diamond shapes, beloved for their clean, linear lines. This rectangular shape is a testament to exacting precision with long, symmetrical facets that draw light in and add depth and dimension. This sophisticated and sleek shape makes an elegant and modern engagement ring.

4.Pear Cut Diamonds

The Pear’s teardrop silhouette leads to a single point, balancing brilliant facets with a pleasing proportion and depth while elongating the fingers. Pear cut diamonds, once preferred for fine jewelry, have now gained popularity as engagement rings with their romantic and symbolic shape.

5.Radiant Cut Diamonds

The perfect balance of beauty and strength, Radiant cut diamonds combine the unmatched brilliance of the Round Brilliant with the distinct silhouette of the Emerald.

Admired for its impeccable symmetry and fiery appearance, this unique shape is an ideal center stone for any of our customizable engagement ring settings.

6.Cushion Cut Diamonds

Cushion cut diamonds are named after their pillow-like appearance, with a soft square shape and rounded corners.The Cushion cut diamond is considered to be one of the diamond shapes that shines the most vividly due to its fire. This contemporary shape is a modern version of the Old mine Cut, giving it a vintage-inspired look.

7.Princess Cut Diamonds

Princess cut diamonds were invented in 1979 and are one of the most sought-after diamond shapes for engagement rings. With an equilateral design, strong edges and pointed corners, Princess cut diamonds effortlessly combine classic brilliance with a clean cut, modern design.

8.Marquise Cut Diamonds

Marquise cut diamonds are a historically notable shape wih a vintage-inspired, whimsical silhouette. Marquise diamonds are the picture of tradition and romance with a stunning elliptical shape that maximizes carat weight and brilliance.

9.Trillion Cut Diamonds

A thoroughly modern diamond shape, today’s Trillion cut diamonds are at once soft and sharp with a triangle shape. Eye-catching and unexpected, Trillion cut diamonds have three equal sides and fiery brilliance.

10.Asscher Cut Diamonds

The Asscher cut diamond marries the elegance and glamour of the Art Deco era with modern style and fine craftsmanship. This octagonal diamond's X-shaped facets and clean geometric lines give this shape a distinctive and glamorous look.

21 Top Unique Diamond Shapes

The following 21 VRAI created diamond shapes are thoroughly unique, perfect for those who prefer non-traditional jewelry or a truly unique engagement ring. Many of the diamond shapes below are exclusive in-house VRAI created diamond shapes, only available as part of our cut to order process.

What Diamond Shape Is Best For You?

The best diamond shape for you will depend on your budget, style, personal preference, and the type of jewelry you’re choosing. When it comes to selecting your shape, consider your personal style first.

Round Brilliant, Oval, and Emerald shapes are thought of as classic. Pear, Marquise, and Asscher shaped diamonds are considered vintage-inspired and romantic. Trillion and Radiant are considered to be modern-yet-timeless. For those with non-traditional tastes or who prefer to stand out, one of our unique diamond shapes may be best for you.

Our VRAI Diamond Experts can help you find a diamond shape that truly represents and aligns with your budget and preferences.

Why Should You Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds?

When you choose VRAI created diamonds, you’re choosing lab-grown diamonds with no human or environmental toll. VRAI diamonds are grown in our own zero-emission foundry, resulting in carbon-neutral jewelry that’s better for you and the planet.

Since we control each step of the production process, from the creation of each diamond to when it's set in jewelry, we can offer the most competitive diamond prices, with no middlemen markups.

For high-quality certified diamonds, choose from our 31 VRAI created diamond shapes, including shapes specifically Cut for You by our Master Diamond Cutters.

Diamond Shape FAQs

Which Diamond Shape Sparkles The Most?

Round Brilliant cut diamonds “sparkle” the most. Sparkle actually refers to a diamond’s fire and scintillation. The rounded shape and angled sides accentuate a Round Brilliant’s 57 facets, but cut must be prioritized to ensure its brilliance. All diamonds have their own stunning brilliance but different diamond shapes will have different kinds of brilliance due to their cut and cut quality.

Which Diamond Shape Costs The Most?

Round Brilliant cut diamonds are the most expensive diamond shape, due to their popularity and cut. That being said, the diamond grade, especially diamond carat price, will also determine the overall price of a diamond. VRAI created Round Brilliant cut diamonds are priced competitively to suit a range of budgets, making it possible to find a high-quality Round Brilliant cut diamond at a lower price point.

Which Diamond Shape Looks The Biggest?

Marquise, Pear, Oval, and Emerald shaped diamonds appear the largest, due to their elongated form. These styles are perfect for those wanting to maximize the size of their engagement ring.