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Diamond cuts
Date: 2026/04/07Diamond cuts – what makes them different?
Four shapes. Four ways to work with light and proportion.
Four shapes. Four ways of working with light and proportion.
The cut determines how light moves in the diamond and how the ring is perceived on the hand. Here are four common cuts – with practical tips and concrete differences. The pictures show the diamond size of 2.0 carat in all cuts.
Grinding
Brilliant cut
A round cut with many facets, developed to provide maximum light play. The light is reflected in multiple directions, creating a distinct sparkle. The shape is symmetrical and appears centered on the hand.
Tip: Choose brilliant if you want maximum sparkling effect on your finger.
Comparison: Reflects more light than emerald, oval, or pear-shaped.
Grinding
Pear Cut
A brilliant cut with a point. It offers the same sparkling light as a round brilliant, but with a shape that draws the eye along the finger. The silhouette often makes the finger appear longer.
Tip: Choose a pear shape if you want your finger to look longer and slimmer.
Comparison: Similar to a brilliant in light, but longer on the finger.
Grinding
Emerald (Emerald Cut)
A step-cut diamond with straight lines and large, open facets. Light is reflected in broad, slow surfaces instead of sparkles. This makes clarity and structure more visible than in brilliant-cut stones.
Tip: Choose an emerald if you want to clearly display the stone's clarity.
Comparison: Less sparkle than brilliant, oval and pear-shaped – a more serene light.
Grinding
Oval (Oval Cut)
An elongated brilliant cut with the same type of light play as the round brilliant. The shape can make the diamond appear larger and gives a more elongated expression that follows the finger.
Tip: Choose an oval if you want the diamond to look bigger and the finger longer.
Comparison: Similar to a brilliant in sparkle, but with a more elongated shape.
Summary advice – choosing a shape
Brilliant sparkles the most, emerald shows clarity more clearly, oval appears larger, and pear elongates the finger.
Consider how the ring sits on the finger and the look you are after. Feel free to try different cuts to see what feels right.
The rings above are from the North collection, set with Lab grown diamonds.
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