Even if you want your engagement ring to be a surprise, it’s always fun to dream of what it will look like. Chances are, you already know whether you’re a yellow or white gold type of person, and there’s always platinum, so the only real question is what shape fits you? Not literally, you can totally pull off whatever shape you like. Picking a shape is more about choosing something that suits your personality, your vibe. Think of it as a personality quiz but with an extra sparkly prize at the end.
You are probably familiar with most of the shapes, but just in case, we figured we’d break them all down for you. There were actually a few that we had never heard of! Plus, we’ve rounded up a few of our favorites for each of the shapes so you can do a little more than window shopping if you know what we mean. Or feel free to leave this post open on your comp in a “convenient” location.
Let’s start with the most timeless and sparkliest of all the shapes, round. We love a round diamond because it looks great in just about any setting and, most importantly, any size. Whether you go for a solitaire or a ring with a fun starburst halo, your round-cut diamond will certainly turn a few heads. Because you can’t go wrong with a round cut, this is perfect for the bride-to-be who suffers from decision fatigue. And when it comes to decisions, it doesn’t get much harder than picking a diamond because let’s face it, they’re all so dang PRETTY! So if you’re a boss babe in your day-to-day life and you just need someone to take the reins on this one, we’re here to say–go round!
Technically, a pear-shaped diamond is more of a teardrop, but you get the idea. It’s pointy at one end and round at the bottom and the cut is a combo of what you would see in round and marquise-cut diamonds. This interesting shape elongates the finger and can be worn with the point facing either direction. Pear-shaped diamonds are for the unique and adventurous bride-to-be. If you plan on rocking an indie designer wedding gown and throwing on a leather jacket for your motorcycle exit, this is the cut for you.
Similar to round diamonds in cut, oval diamonds are tradition with a twist. The long shape also helps elongate fingers and is one of the more flattering cuts. And these babies look great with a halo! Oval diamonds are perfect for the bride-to-be that’s hiding a few tattoos under a silk blouse for her corporate day job.
For the vintage bride-to-be, this one is a no-brainer. There is something so delicate about a marquise cut, it screams princess. And, because of its unique shape, we’re suckers for a solitaire marquise diamond, but you could throw in a pave band for some added sparkle.
Did you know that a princess diamond can actually be square or rectangular in shape? This cut is super popular and certainly has that old-money feel. If you dream of a country-club membership and always have your nails painted the perfect shade of ballet pink, the princess cut is for you.
The name says it all, and if you’re a millennial, then you’re definitely familiar with this shape of diamond–Titanic anyone? For some reason, heart-cut diamonds always remind us of Elle Woods–an uber-femme romantic that’s not afraid to wear her heart on her sleeve, literally. Seriously, can you imagine this cut in pink?
If cushion cut and emerald had a baby, it would be the Asscher cut. Its long straight edges give it extra clarity and it can come in both square and rectangular forms. One of the rarest and most expensive cuts, this cut is not for wallflowers. If you’re a bride-to-be who knows what she wants (and usually gets it), then an Asscher cut diamond could be in your future.
This cut is becoming more and more popular for engagement rings, and it’s easy to see why. It’s pretty and it looks great on BIG rocks. And, who doesn’t love a big diamond? Cushion-cut diamonds can be square or rectangular and have slightly rounded edges. If you are one of those people that like to dress up in your everyday life, if you wear heels to work even though you don’t have to, this cut is perfect for you.
Modern and vintage just the same, emerald-cut diamonds are ever-popular and will certainly never go out of style. The large flat surfaces provide extra clarity and a crisp shine. If your personal style leans more minimalist, look no further, you’re definitely an emerald-cut.
Ok, this is the one that we had never heard of before, but you’ll recognize the shape. This is the only triangular diamond shape, and it has slightly rounded sides. Popular with colored diamonds and other unique stones, this cut is perfect for the bride-to-be who dances to her own beat. If you’re a creative you can definitely rock a trilliant cut, because like you, they’re one in a trillion.