Cushion cut vs. princess cut diamond often conflicts mind when you consider buying an engagement ring. While there are various diamond shapes available to consider while buying a ring, these two popular rings are considered the favourite of celebrities, even among celebrities like Katrina Kaif who received a stunning diamond ring from her husband Vicky Kaushal.
In this blog post, we will specifically take into consideration a few factors before finalizing which one to go for and will make sure that your engagement ring not only captures your personal style but also adds a touch of magic to your special day.
Let's start exploring!
A Cushion cut diamond, known as an old mine cut, represents a blend of old and new that will complement a vintage, unique style yet with a modern brilliance that everyone will love.
It is typically square or rectangular, with rounded corners instead of pointed ones. In recent years, unique cuts have gained immense popularity and tend to look like crushed ice with a more subtle sparkle that sets it apart from the sparkling brilliance of other diamonds.
Princess-cut diamonds are square, giving them a clean, modern, royal vibe that differs widely as compared to cushion cuts. Sometimes, it may be rectangular and cut for maximum brilliance and feature an inverted pyramid on the bottom half of the gemstone. They are usually considered to be the most beautiful options for earrings, necklaces and bracelets and have gained immense popularity because of their classic and timeless look.
Before you make a purchase, let's discuss the pros in detail
Cushion cut diamond ring design offers an incredible fire and sparkle that is combined with a soft, unique shape, making it popular among those who love antique cuts. While it may not feature as many facets as round brilliant cuts, the larger facets of a cushion cut create a beautiful play of light, resulting in a captivating sparkle.
It can be set in various styles of engagement rings, blending both antique and modern aesthetics performance. Whether placed in classic solitaire settings, vintage-inspired designs or halo settings, the cushion cut adapts elegantly, with no strict ratio or preferences, making it blend with special occasions.
Cushion-cut diamond prices are a cost-effective option due to the retention of the original rough diamond during the cutting process. Also, cushions have a lower demand and produce less waste during cutting, allowing for customization of size according to personal preference.
Princess-cut diamonds provide a larger face-up appearance when compared to other diamond shapes with the same carat weight. This is due to its square or rectangular shape with pointed corners, facilitating the distribution of more diamond weight towards the centre. As a result, princess-cut diamonds appear larger and become an attractive option for those who are seeking a visually impactful diamond without increasing the carat weight.
Compared to other diamonds, princess cuts are more affordable. The pyramidal shape of the cut results in less material wastage during the cutting process. The efficiency in cutting contributes to a more affordable price per carat when compared to other diamond shapes. Princess cuts offer a cost-effective option without compromising on overall appearance.
On cushion cut Vs princess cut diamonds, we concluded that even princess cuts are highly versatile and will suit every engagement style. They will look elegant in classic solitaire settings, but they will also be paired up with elaborate designs such as halo or three-stone settings. The square or rectangular shape with pointed corners gives it a modern and clean aesthetic, making princess-cut diamonds appealing to those with both traditional and modern tastes.
Cushion cut diamonds, with their iconic soft and feminine pillow shape, have been popular for centuries among diamond enthusiasts. We will explore various types of cushion-cut diamonds:
The old mine cushion cut originated in the early 19th and 20th century, known for its chunky and geometric facets. Considered antique cuts, they exhibit a distinctive, nearly chunky appearance with larger facets and a smaller table, contributing to a unique play of light. They come in rectangular or square shapes and are cherished for their vintage charm.
It is a modern variation of the cushion cut, incorporating a brilliant facet pattern. The pattern consists of numerous smaller facets that enhance the diamond's sparkle and brilliance, offering a more lively and fiery appearance as compared to older cushion cuts. The style is popular for those who prefer a classic, brilliant look with the vintage charm of a cushion cut.
A type of cushion cut diamond refers to the cutting style that results in a diamond with a unique faceting pattern that resembles crushed ice. This type of cushion cut has numerous small facets; it will create a sparkling effect, appreciated for its distinctiveness and the captivating, modern look it imparts to the diamond.
The cushion modifies "hybrid" cuts and amalgamates elements from both traditional and modern cushion cuts. By incorporating a mix of large and smaller facets, it achieves a balance between brilliance and a more antique appearance. This cut aims to capture both the audience, catering to those who appreciate the vintage appeal of older cuts while also valuing the sparkle found in the modern brilliant cuts.
In the above blog, we discussed cushion vs princess cut diamond, determining that the cushion cut is considered to be fairly priced compared to the princess cut diamond.
The colour of a diamond matters. GIA grades diamonds on a scale from D to Z. For cushion cut diamonds, it is suggested to aim for colour in the range from G to J to strike a good balance between quality and cost. However, H colour diamond is considered a good value option. It is one of the popular choices because of its price range and is nearly colourless with a yellow tint.
Clarity refers to internal or external imperfections, known as inclusion or blemishes. The GIA grades diamonds are rated on a scale from flawless to included. In the case of a cushion-cut diamond, a clarity grade of very slightly or slightly is often considered a perfect balance between quality and value.
The term eye clean is used to describe a diamond that looks clear and free from inclusion under normal view conditions. In the case of a cushion cut, it has a large open table, which means that it is difficult to find a clean-eye diamond can be challenging, implying that a premium is often paid for high clarity stones.
The cut of a diamond influences its brilliance and overall appearance. The cushion cut diamond quality differs in terms of cut quality. Let's have a look at the particular aspects:
Proportions - Firstly, ensure that the diamond has well-balanced proportions and avoid extremes that could impact its brilliance.
Facet patterns - Evaluate the arrangements of facets. A cushion-cut diamond should exhibit a pleasing pattern that will enhance its sparkle.
Symmetry - Check for symmetry in the diamond facets. It is considered that well-aligned facets contribute to a more visually appealing diamond.
Over the years, the comparison between cushion cut vs princess cut diamonds has been a common consideration, given their popularity. Couples often find it daunting to choose between these two exquisite diamond cuts when getting engaged or gifting a loved one. Personal preferences and individual choices primarily influence the decision.
At V. Jayantilal & Co., we specialize in crafting diamonds that will be close to your heart and set your class apart with a touch of class. We believe in crafting round, cushion, oval and emerald diamonds that guarantee quality and help us grow to the next level and meet customer requirements.
Cushion cut diamonds have an incredible charm that transports one back to their heyday in the 18th century. They are currently one of the most sought-after diamond shapes due to their timeless beauty and alluring charm.
Buying a cushion cut diamond can be a significant investment, and understanding the intricacies of this popular diamond shape is crucial to making an informed decision. In this detailed cushion cut diamond buying guide, we'll explore the key factors to consider when purchasing a cushion cut diamond, including cut quality, carat weight, color, clarity, and other important aspects.
If the unique elegance and rarity of the antique cushion cut diamond appeal to you, there are a few important things to think about before you buy. This list of valuable insights includes general advice on cushion cut diamond buying guide on understanding their unique qualities.
The cushion-cut diamond flawlessly combines the ageless allure of the traditional old-mine facet pattern with the sophistication of contemporary round-cut diamonds. Typically featuring a soft square or rectangular shape with gently curved edges, this diamond exudes a distinct allure.
A cushion-cut diamond is essentially the elegant combination of a square cut and rounded corners, giving it the charming appearance of a cozy cushion. It is precisely this appearance that earned it the name “cushion cut.”
The following are the main characteristics that distinguish a cushion-cut diamond:
Nevertheless, there are some things to think about carefully before making your final choice. This article aims to furnish you with the essential factors to examine during this process.
Also Read: Factors to Consider When Selecting a Cushion Shape Diamond
Irrespective of the diamond you wish to purchase, it is essential always to evaluate the 4Cs of the diamond. While the “cushion cut” is indeed a significant factor, making the best purchase also relies on considering the other three Cs.
That is why the 4Cs, comprising Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight, hold significant importance when evaluating cushion cut diamonds. A well-cut diamond maximizes brilliance and sparkle, while a colourless or near-colourless grade enhances its beauty. Optimal clarity ensures a visually appealing diamond without visible flaws, and the carat weight determines its size. By considering and balancing these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect cushion-cut diamond that aligns with your preferences and requirements.
Also Read: Learn About the 4C's of Diamond - The Ultimate Guide
Cushion-cut diamonds frequently have a 1:1 length-to-width ratio and are perfectly square. But these diamonds can also be found in different ratios, which makes them appear more square or rectangular. To achieve a more square look, opt for a ratio between 1.00 and 1.09, while for a more rectangular appearance, the best ratio for cushion cut diamond is between 1.15 and 1.50.
It’s important to note that there is no universal “best” ratio for cushion-cut diamonds since it ultimately depends on personal preferences. Nevertheless, the most popular ratio range for cushion-cut diamonds falls between 1.10 and 1.20.
In a cushion cut diamond, the depth and table percentages are very important to guarantee the best possible light reflection. For the best results, experts typically advise selecting diamonds with depth and table percentages below 70%.
These percentages determine how well light is refracted and reflected within the diamond, ultimately affecting its brilliance and sparkle. Additionally, it is important to note that while depth and table percentages are important factors, other aspects such as symmetry and polish should also be considered when choosing a cushion cut diamond.
If your quest is for the finest cut, you might find yourself captivated by cushion-cut diamonds featuring Hearts and Arrows. While these cushions exhibit remarkable performance, it's important to keep in mind that cushion-cut diamonds can still exhibit brilliant performance even in the absence of the hearts-and-arrows pattern. In addition, the hearts-and-arrows pattern is usually only noticeable on "chunky" cushions; people who like the "crushed ice" appearance should stay away from hearts and arrows.
Cushion-cut diamonds are available in a range of shapes, from nearly square to nearly round. The best option is to choose a visually pleasing medium ground with gently curved sides and rounded corners. To ensure you get the desired shape, it’s crucial to have a clear image of the diamond. If the shape appears off or doesn’t meet your preferences, it’s best to refrain from making the purchase.
There are benefits and drawbacks to each diamond shape. Learn if the cushion cut is right for you.
Due to the rise in popularity of vintage styling over the past ten years, cushion cut diamonds are seeing a comeback in the market. The cushion cut is one of the oldest types of diamond cuts, with a square form and rounded corners.
They are now available in a wide variety of facet arrangements creating several very distinctive looks. It all comes down to personal preference; none of these "flavors" is intrinsically better or worse than the others. Larger diamonds and/or better designer brand settings are now possible at a given budget thanks to the incredibly low cost of cushion cut diamonds.
If you wish to buy diamonds with precise cuts and competitive cushion cut diamond prices, visit V. Jayantilal & co. We are one of the most reliable and leading diamond manufacturers in Surat.
Round and cushion-cut diamonds are both dazzling choices for diamond jewellery. Due to their current popularity, it's likely that if you're looking for a diamond pendant, engagement ring, or any other type of diamond design, you've seen a lot of these shapes.
While round and cushion-cut diamonds are similarly popular, they have several differences that can affect which you prefer. The price, setting options, sparkle, and style of these shapes vary. Additionally, they exhibit clarity and color in different ways, which may influence your decision regarding the qualities you value most when choosing a diamond.
By understanding the differences between round vs cushion diamonds, you can easily make an educated decision when choosing between the two.
There are several arguments in favor of the round vs cushion diamonds debate beyond just shape. Find out which of these stunning diamond cuts is best for you by reading on to discover their distinctions.
The Round cut's high brilliance factor and adaptability in settings make it more popular. There are many reasons for this, but some of the most notable are its timeless shape, incredible sparkle, and versatility. This round diamond appears larger than its carat weight would indicate and looks stunning in any style, from sleek and contemporary to vintage and elaborate.
When viewed from above, it appears to be a perfect circle and fits all finger shapes well. Its distinctive dazzle comes from 57–58 perfectly placed facets. When light enters a diamond, it reflects and refracts inside before being emitted. This accounts for a diamond's brilliance.
Also Read: The Ultimate Round Cut Diamond Buying Guide
The cushion diamond also referred to as the “pillow cut," is square but has rounded corners that create a puffed-up appearance. In contrast to a princess-cut diamond, an engagement ring with a cushion cut will seem rounder and have softer corners.
Originally, the antique cushion featured 58 facets, but modern cushions often feature as many as 64 facets, which gives them a brilliant and sophisticated sparkle.
In a nutshell, the cushion-cut diamond is a romantic blend of retro and contemporary styles, which makes it suitable for people looking for something unique.
The round-cut diamond is 58 facets cut in a way that creates a perfectly symmetrical circle. Its shape is classic, elegant, and universally flattering, which is part of the reason it is so popular, especially with brides.
On the other hand, depending on how they are cut, cushion cuts can have a very different shape. Some are more spherical in shape, while others are more square-like. They can be sharp and square, more elongated and oval, or any combination of these.
When you have an elongated cushion cut diamond, which can resemble a round or oval cut diamond, things can get confusing. It's crucial to know what shape you want in an engagement ring before you start looking because cushion-cut diamonds come in a wide range of shapes.
Cushioned brilliant cuts have a highly symmetrical look, with larger facets that could be described as chunky. With an additional row of facets on their pavilion, modified cushion cuts resemble crushed ice in appearance but are more dispersed.
Also Read: Intricacies of Color Considerations for Cushion Shape Diamonds
Round-cut diamonds are classic and elegant. A wide spectrum of people find them appealing due to their timeless quality, gorgeous sparkle, and lovely symmetry.
In addition to being classic in style, cushion-cut diamonds have a touch of vintage appeal because of their antique origins.
Cushion-cut diamonds also have a romantic appearance in comparison to other rectangular or square diamond shapes because of their rounded edges, which give them a softness not found in sharper rectangular shapes like emerald, radiant, princess, or Asscher cuts.
Round brilliant-cut diamonds are beloved for their incredible sparkle. Thanks to their carefully arranged facets, round brilliant-cut diamonds have the most brilliance of any diamond shape.
Cushion-cut diamonds are also beautifully sparkly and brilliant, but they are less brilliant than round diamonds due to their larger facets. Cushion diamonds also have a different type of scintillation than round brilliant diamonds. Both round and cushion-cut diamonds have a lot of fire (rainbow sparkle) and brilliance (white sparkle).
But cushion cut diamonds tend to have more fire than any other diamond shape, including round. So, if you’re a fan of colorful sparkles over white sparkles, the cushion cut may catch your eye.
As you decide whether you prefer round or cushion-cut diamonds, don’t neglect to consider how each shape will look when set in jewellery. If you’re looking for a center diamond for a very simple design, such as a prong-set solitaire diamond ring, your diamond will largely define the style of your piece. But if you prefer more intricate jewellery, you want to think about how the style of your center diamond will look in your favorite settings.
Generally speaking, round-cut diamonds look amazing in classic and modern designs, while cushion-cut diamonds look great in designs that are classic and vintage-inspired.
Yet, either shape can shine in any style, depending on the specific design. At the end of the day, this is an aesthetic consideration that comes down to personal preference.
Cushion-cut and round diamonds can display specific characteristics differently because of their distinct shapes and faceting patterns. Interestingly, compared to cushion-cut diamonds, round-cut diamonds tend to conceal flaws better. Because round diamonds have so many tiny facets, they can effectively hide minute inclusions within the stone, giving the appearance of higher quality even in round diamonds with lower diamond clarity grades.
The color of the diamond is another obvious distinction between these two diamond shapes. Cushion-cut diamonds are excellent at showcasing color. If you're looking for a vibrant gemstone, this is great; if you're looking for a colorless diamond, it's not so great.
Cushion-cut diamonds will clearly outperform round diamonds in this area. We are all aware of the price differential between cushion and round diamond.
The most expensive type of diamond in the world is a round brilliant-cut diamond.
The first reason is that the creation of a round brilliant diamond leads to more raw diamond waste, which automatically increases the making cost so that the selling price is also high.
Secondly, Cushion diamonds are also called "Fancy shapes." Fancy-shaped diamonds are a category that includes many shapes such as princess, emerald, pear, oval, marquise, asscher, etc.
The third reason is the popularity and high demand for round-cut diamonds.
Cushion-cut diamonds are less expensive than round diamonds.
Even if cushion-cut or round diamonds have the same carat weight and qualities, for sure the cushion-cut diamond will cost 20% to 40% less. As vintage jewellery is gaining popularity, cushion-cut diamonds are also rising in price.
Still, cushion-cut diamonds are less expensive than round-cut diamonds.
We hope that you got a clear idea from round vs cushion diamonds, which one will you prefer and why. If you prefer a softened-edged square shape, go for a cushion cut. It is less expensive than a typical round-cut diamond and offers stunning sparkle and fire. A cushion cut is a great choice if your style is reminiscent of Georgian and Victorian periods, or if you'd like to choose between a classic or "crushed ice" look.
Go for a round-cut diamond if you've had your heart set on a brilliant round cut. It's a classic look that will always be in vogue. A purchase as significant as an engagement ring will be well worth it due to its 58 sparkling facets and high value.
You are aware by now of the significance of diamonds as investments in your life. You want to be happy with whatever you end up choosing. Personal preference is really what matters for the diamond and ring because you want to love them at the end of the day. At V. Jayantilal & Co., we understand how your eyes can cross when picking out the perfect diamond. To accommodate your distinct taste and style, we provide a variety of options.
Diamonds, with their timeless allure and enduring symbolism, have captivated humanity for centuries. Among the various shapes available, the cushion cut stands out for its distinctive blend of vintage charm and modern elegance.
While the 4 Cs—carat, cut, clarity, and color—play pivotal roles in determining a diamond's overall quality, this discussion delves into the nuanced realm of color considerations specifically tailored to cushion shape diamonds.
Understanding the complexities of color within this unique cut is essential for those seeking a diamond that not only dazzles with brilliance but also exudes a captivating hue.
Before delving into the intricacies of color, it's imperative to comprehend the fundamental characteristics of cushion-cut diamonds. This square or rectangular shape with rounded corners combines the brilliance of round diamonds with a distinctive pillow-like appearance.
The cut typically features larger facets, enhancing the stone's ability to reflect light and display a unique play of colors. Unlike round diamonds, where color considerations are equally crucial, the cushion cut offers a canvas where color nuances are more perceptible due to its larger facets and open corners.
A cushion shape diamond color GIA color grading scale ranging from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The cushion cut, with its unique facets, interacts with light differently compared to other cuts, influencing the way colors manifest within the stone.
Therefore, a comprehensive understanding of the color scale and grading system is vital for those navigating the world of cushion-cut diamonds.
In the context of cushion-cut diamonds, the color grade significantly impacts the stone's rarity and market value. While colorless diamonds (D-F) are highly sought after for their pure, icy brilliance, near-colourless stones (G-J) also hold immense appeal. The subtle hints of color in near-colourless diamonds can contribute to a warm and inviting aesthetic, appealing to those who appreciate a touch of warmth in their diamonds.
However, once you move into the faint yellow or brown shades (K and beyond), the presence of color becomes more apparent, affecting the diamond's overall beauty and market desirability.
The cut of a cushion shape diamond can play a crucial role in how color is perceived. A well-cut diamond with optimal proportions can enhance its brilliance and minimize the visibility of color. On the other hand, a poorly cut diamond may not reflect light as effectively, making any underlying color more noticeable.
When considering cushion cut diamonds, it's essential to strike a balance between cut quality and color to achieve a harmonious and visually appealing result.
Fluorescence, the phenomenon where a diamond emits a soft glow when exposed to ultraviolet light, can also influence color perception. While faint to medium fluorescence is generally considered acceptable, strong fluorescence may cause a hazy or milky appearance, affecting the diamond's overall visual appeal.
Understanding how fluorescence interacts with cushion shape diamond color is crucial for making informed decisions about the desired characteristics of a diamond.
Choosing the ideal cushion shape diamond color ultimately depends on personal preferences. Some individuals prefer the crisp, colorless brilliance of D-F diamonds, while others appreciate the warmth and character found in near-colorless or faintly colored stones.
The key is to strike a balance that aligns with individual tastes and style preferences. Additionally, considering the metal setting for the diamond is essential, as it can influence how the color is perceived against the backdrop of the chosen metal.
Also Read: 7 Colored Diamonds That You Have Never Seen
Customers sometimes prefer the warmer tones of color grades G-H to the icy cool tones of color grades D-F, especially when set in rose or yellow gold.
The truth is, that the difference between these two color grade ranges is difficult to perceive in cushion cuts, especially to the naked eye.
For detailed information use the below table of cushion cut diamond color chart
| Excellent | Very Good | Good | |
| <0.50ct | D-G | H-I | J-K |
| 0.51-1.00ct | D-F | G | H-I |
| 1.00-2.00ct | D-F | D-F | G-H |
| >2.00ct | D-F | D-F | G |
In conclusion, the world of cushion cut diamonds unveils a captivating interplay of color, cut, and personal preferences. As individuals embark on the quest to find the perfect diamond, they are guided not only by the established principles of gemology but also by their own unique style and aesthetic sensibilities.
In this journey, the expertise and guidance of industry leaders such as V. Jayantilal & Co. become invaluable.
V. Jayantilal & Co., a renowned name synonymous with excellence in the diamond industry, brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. With a keen understanding of the nuances within the diamond market.
Its commitment to quality, coupled with a deep appreciation for the unique attributes of each diamond, ensures that those navigating the world of cushion cuts are guided by a trusted hand.
