When it comes to diamonds, each cut has its charm and beauty that make them unique. No two diamond cuts are alike hence it all comes down to the diamond. Finding a diamond that not only suits your tastes but also your budget can be quite a hard task.
Princess cut vs cushion cut diamonds are two of the very famous and popular diamond cuts in the market. Princess cut and cushion cut both have a geometrical appearance that pleases a lot of minimalistic and contemporary people with varying differences.
Each has a different fan following for different reasons.
Princess Cut Diamonds
Princess cut diamonds are perfectly square diamond cuts that sparkle with brilliance and fire. The second most popular diamond cut, princess cut diamonds feature straight edges with sharp corners. These square cut diamonds are as brilliant as round brilliant diamonds.
Princess shape diamonds first made an appearance in 1961. They were also called ‘square modified brilliant’ and ‘profile cuts’ based on their cut and similarity to round brilliant diamonds. With up to 76 facets around them, princess cut diamonds are full of brilliance and sparkle that is bound to grab everyone’s attention.
Since these diamonds are more about sparkle and brilliance, they make an excellent case for not showing their true colors. Most of their colors are concentrated at the corners, making it hard to tell the difference between two diamonds of consecutively different grades when kept side by side. This also works in the favor of the buyer lower color grades are quite acceptable when it comes to princess cuts.
Princess cut diamonds refract up to 70% of the light that enters within them. That percentage not only makes them highly refractive and reflective but also gives them an upper hand over cushion cut diamonds.
Pros and Cons of Princess Cut
Pros:
- Sleek Appearance: Princess cut diamonds offer a sleek and elegant look, making fingers appear longer.
- Versatility: Looks great in various settings, enhancing the overall appeal of your jewelry.
Cons:
- Sparkle: Slightly less sparkle compared to cushion cut diamonds.
- Price: Can be relatively higher due to high demand.
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Cushion Cut Diamonds
Cushion cut diamonds or old mine cut diamonds, are soft square or rectangle diamond cuts that sparkle with soft gleam and elegance. One of the most popular diamond cuts, cushion cut diamonds have rounded edges with blunt curved corners. They might be as brilliant as princess cut diamonds but they do have an unparalleled sophistication that is highly unique.
Cushion diamonds first made their appearance in the 1700s. They were also called ‘old mine cuts’ due to them being the way old mined diamonds were cut. They are one of the oldest cuts of diamonds. They were the standard diamond cut until the 19th century when new and modified diamond cuts started making their appearance.
Cushion cut diamonds have 58 facets which gives these diamonds a less sparkly nature compared to princess cut diamonds.
Cushion lab diamonds have subpar color retention, which makes colors within them quite visible. They retain their natural color best. Because of their comparatively less brilliance than princess cuts, it is easier to spot inclusions and blemishes inside a Pillow cut diamond.
Due to their rounded blunt corners, their color doesn’t tend to accumulate at the corners. Hence it is not suggested to go for a lower grade of a diamond, not below H when it comes to color. But these colored influences can be nullified if yellow gold or rose gold is chosen as the metal for the same.
Due to their variety of sizes, choosing the wrong cushion cut diamond may either end up looking way similar to the round brilliant diamond or radiant cut diamond. The preferable ratio of L-W happens to be 1.00-1.30. Elongated cushion cuts have their unrivaled charisma.
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Pros and Cons of Cushion Cut
Pros:
- Brilliant Fire: Resembles a round diamond, providing excellent fire and brilliance.
- Size: Makes a strong visual impact due to its shape.
Cons:
- Bulkier Appearance: Creates a bulky impression on the finger.
- Versatility: While still versatile, may not suit all settings as seamlessly as princess cut diamonds.
Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut Diamonds
Difference Between Princess and Cushion Cut
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| Aspect | Princess Cut | Cushion Cut |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Geometric, sharp square with four beveled sides | Distinctly rounded square, reminiscent of a pillow |
| History | Invented in 1980 by Betazel Ambar and Israel Itzkowitz | Dates back to the 1700s, with a resurgence in popularity |
| Fire and Brilliance | High brilliance, comparable to round or cushion cut diamonds | Intense sparkle and fire, especially in modified cushion cuts |
| Facet Patterns | Contains 57 or 76 facets, with variations in pavilion and crown facets | 58 facets, with classic and modified patterns, creating ‘hearts and arrows’ or ‘crushed ice’ effects |
| Ratio Variations | Slightly rectangular, ratio typically 1.00-1.05 | Square or elongated options, ratios vary for different preferences |
| Price | More affordable, up to 30% less than round brilliant cut diamonds | Lower demand makes them 15-20% cheaper than round cuts per carat |
| Size Perception | Appears larger face up due to bigger face-up surface area | May look smaller per carat due to the smaller table and depth |
| Versatility | Versatile, suitable for various settings and styles | Combines antique feeling with modern performance, adaptable to different designs |
| Vulnerability | Sharp corners may be prone to chipping if not protected | Generally less vulnerable, but girdle thickness should be considered |
| Colour Display | Tends to display more color due to the large table | May have a slight tint, but usually not highly noticeable |
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Which Diamond Cut is Best: Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut Diamond?
Neither is truly superior to the other; it is simply a question of taste. If you want a more contemporary style, a princess cut diamond is the way to go. The cushion cut, on the other hand, works nicely in a variety of situations if you prefer a more classic look.
Cushion cut diamonds are excellent at illuminating color, and the soft, round edges lend a classic touch, particularly when used in a halo arrangement. However, they can make a diamond appear smaller than it is, so if you choose a cushion cut, you may want to go with a greater diamond to compensate.
Princess cuts are more architectural in structure than cushion cuts, providing it with a sleek, sophisticated, regal feel. They have the most vivid brilliance of any cut, following only the round cut, making them a popular option for engagement rings.
Cushion Cut Diamonds Ring Setting
THREE STONE SETTING:
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A cushion three-stone diamond ring typically features a central cushion cut diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds on either side. This style of ring is known for its elegance and versatility.
SOLITAIRE SETTING:
Due to its soft gleam on top of its symmetrical shape, solitaire settings work amazingly with pillow-cut diamonds. Combining a warmer cushion cut diamond with yellow gold or rose gold gives it a very vintage vibe. Also using a combination of two metals can make it very unique and enhance its antique charm.
HALO SETTING:
If the vintage charm of the cushion cut is not enough as it is, adding a halo around it may work for you. Since cushion cut diamonds aren’t the sparkiest diamonds, the halo might just make the center diamond appear more dazzling and bolder.
Princess Cut Diamonds Ring Setting
SOLITAIRE SETTING:
Due to its rectilinearity, solitaire settings work great with diamonds having princess cuts as these diamonds shine bright all by themselves. Placing a square cut diamond with white gold or platinum will provide an utmost chic and sophisticated look that would be unrivaled.
HALO SETTING:
If you feel like enhancing the beauty of the princess cut diamond, then do get a halo around the center diamond. A halo has small accent diamonds in the periphery of the center stone. They refract and reflect part of their light into the center stone making it sparklier.
Halo settings are also great since they make the center diamond appear bigger by giving an illusion of increased surface area.
THREE STONE SETTING:
Opting for side stones on either side of the center stone can make your diamond look gorgeous. Side stones can be half-moon diamonds, triangles, trillions, baguettes, and even small princess cut diamonds as well. Timeless elegance meets modern allure in this symbol of everlasting love exquisite princess cut three stone engagement ring.
Buy Best Lab Created Princess Cut and Cushion Cut Diamond
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We provide a user-friendly Diamond Price Calculator on our website. This tool helps you make informed decisions based on your budget and preferences.
You can check out LGD’s specialized “Diamond Size Chart” guide for measuring diamond sizes and check out the “Printable Ring Size Chart” guide for measuring ring sizes.
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Conclusion
When it comes to the argument of what is better: Princess cut or Cushion cut? There is no explicit winner. Neither is superior or finer than the other. It all comes down to personal choices; of what you like. However, if you are going for a charm of modern, then Princess cut diamonds are the best choice. But if it is a vintage and minimalistic look for you, then it is a cushion cut.
Cushion cut diamonds. And if you are still having issues with choosing between them, go for something that has both stones in it. It might be slightly expensive but it will look gorgeous with a perfect combination of modern and vintage.
FAQs
Can I customize rings from LGD?
Absolutely! Loose Grown Diamonds offers a personalized touch, allowing you to create customized rings tailored to your preferences. Our expert craftsmen bring your unique vision to life.
Is a cushion cut diamond better than a princess cut?
Both cuts have unique appeal; a cushion cut offers a softer, romantic look, while a princess cut exudes modern elegance. The choice depends on personal preference and style.
What are the disadvantages of princess cut diamonds?
Princess shape diamonds may be prone to chipping at the corners due to their sharp edges. Choosing protective settings can mitigate this risk, ensuring durability.
Which diamond cut has the most sparkle?
The round brilliant cut is renowned for maximum sparkle, thanks to its numerous facets that enhance light reflection and brilliance. Explore more about this diamond shape’s ring in our carefully advised blog here.
Is a princess cut diamond more expensive?
Generally, princess diamonds are more affordable than round cuts, offering a budget-friendly option without compromising on elegance and beauty.