Sell your diamonds with Diamantaire Paris today

When choosing a diamond, shape is one of the first criteria to consider. There are various diamond shapes, which may appeal to you depending on the style you seek and your jewelry preferences. Discover the different diamond shapes and our tips for choosing yours.

Buy a diamond Sell a diamond 01 48 87 23 37 Our customer service team is at your disposal free of charge for purchasing your diamond of any size. Purchase & Appraisal without appointment:
43 Rue Beaubourg 75003 Paris.

Diamond Cut, an Important Selection Criterion

Diamond shape is linked to cut. Cut is an important criterion when choosing a diamond; it will notably determine its quality and value. It is one of the 4 Cs analyzed by major gemological laboratories (GIA, IGI, HRD) when establishing the diamond certificate. Diamonds rated highest on the cut criterion (Very Good to Excellent) are those whose shape guarantees maximum brilliance; they therefore have high value.

Diamond Shape, an Important Selection Criterion

There are different diamond shapes, each designed to enhance the diamond and maximize its brilliance.

Round Brilliant Diamond

The round brilliant diamond is the most classic diamond and the most sold shape worldwide. Its perfectly balanced proportions guarantee the most brilliance. It was calibrated in 1919 by Marcel Tolkowsky, with 57 facets, to ensure optimal brilliance. It is a timeless diamond, and the best choice when you don't know which diamond shape to choose.

Princess Diamond

The princess cut is, along with the round brilliant cut, one of the most classic diamond shapes. It is the second most sold shape worldwide. Square (traditionally) or rectangular, the princess diamond is elegant with sharp angles. It has 76 facets that ensure optimal brilliance: it is therefore a good alternative to the round brilliant diamond for a more original look or to buy a diamond of the same weight at a lower cost.

Cushion Diamond

The cushion-shaped diamond is a square or rectangular diamond but with rounded corners. The cushion shape (also called old mine cut) is characterized by large facets that scatter light and make the stone sparkle. The cushion shape has been very popular in recent years. Rings with a cushion diamond set and surrounded by round brilliant diamonds are highly appreciated for their brilliance and elegance.

Emerald Diamond

The emerald cut was once used for emeralds – hence its name. Developed in 1930, this shape with 57 facets produces elegant, chic, and glamorous diamonds, with significant light reflection thanks to its large flat table and long lines. The emerald shape is reserved for very high quality diamonds (VVS-VS clarity minimum) because even the smallest inclusion will be visible.

Pear Diamond

The pear diamond features one rounded side and one pointed side. Difficult to choose because the cut is not always optimal, it is often favored for a diamond worn as a pendant because its shape resembles a teardrop. The pear diamond has 58 facets, making it brilliant, especially when the cut is well balanced. Above all, it is an original shape that will give your solitaire diamond a unique look!

Oval Diamond

The oval diamond is halfway between the round diamond and the pear diamond. The oval diamond has 56 facets; it is elegant and feminine. It is a less expensive alternative to the round brilliant diamond, with a unique and original touch, and more durable than the pear diamond, whose pointed edge can wear over time. It can be set as a solitaire in a ring or as side stones.

Heart Diamond

The heart diamond is the favorite shape of romantics! A symbol of love, the heart cut is symmetrical and well balanced when properly executed. For optimal results, diamonds of at least 1 to 2 carats are preferred.

Marquise Diamond

The marquise shape (or navette shape) was developed in the 18th century at the request of King Louis XV, who wanted a diamond whose shape imitates the smile of his mistress, the Marquise Madame de Pompadour. Worn as a ring, the marquise diamond elongates the finger thanks to a wide crown. It is set in a square claw to enhance it. Sleek, the marquise diamond appears larger and longer than another diamond of a different shape of equivalent weight.

Radiant Diamond

The radiant diamond is a hybrid cut that can be square or rectangular. It is the most brilliant shape among square-cut diamonds. It was created in 1977 by Henry Grossbard of the Radiant Cut Diamond Company. This shape has an advantage for those who cannot afford to invest in top-quality diamonds: its multiple angles and facets create a crushed ice effect that effectively masks inclusions.

Asscher Diamond

The Asscher shape is characteristic of the Art Deco style. Created by the Royal Asscher Diamond Company in 1902 and popularized in the 1920s, the Asscher diamond features a rectangular shape with prismatic brilliance that creates an optical illusion with a "Hall of Mirrors" effect. The Asscher diamond resembles the emerald diamond somewhat, with a smaller table and more brilliance.

Trilliant Triangular Diamond

The triangular cut is rare, especially for a solitaire diamond. It is mainly found on melee diamonds. It offers great brilliance and a lot of originality.

What is the Best Shape for a Diamond?

There is no "best" shape for a diamond. Indeed, the round brilliant diamond is considered the most perfect diamond shape because its proportions are perfectly balanced and allow the diamond to shine at its maximum. The round brilliant diamond is classic and timeless: it accounts for half of diamonds sold and is often one of the first choices for an engagement ring. However, other shapes are highly appreciated, notably the cushion shape (very trendy currently) or the princess shape (very trendy for wedding bands or for pavé settings on rings).

Emerald, pear, or heart shapes are less popular because they require a specific ring setting. However, once set in a ring, the beauty of a pear diamond, an emerald diamond, or a heart diamond is undeniable!

-> Guide: Where to sell a diamond ring 

The best shape will thus vary from person to person; it is above all a matter of taste and preferences. Depending on the style you seek, you may prefer a heart diamond to a round diamond!

Guide – VVS Clarity Diamond

Sell your VVS diamonds with Diamantaires Paris today 01 48 87 23 37 Sell Do you own a diamond and wish to sell it? Free appraisal,

Sell a GIA Diamond with Certificate

What are the different diamond shapes available at Diamantaire Paris?

Diamantaire Paris offers various diamond shapes, including round brilliant, princess, cushion, emerald, pear, oval, heart, marquise, radiant, Asscher, and trilliant triangular. Each shape has its unique characteristics and is chosen to maximize the diamond's brilliance and beauty.

How to choose a diamond shape at Diamantaire Paris?

The choice of diamond shape depends on your personal taste and the style you seek. The round brilliant diamond is classic and timeless, often preferred for engagement rings. Other shapes like cushion or princess are also popular. Diamantaire Paris offers personalized advice to help you choose the ideal shape based on your preferences and budget.

Is it possible to get a free and confidential appraisal of a jewelry piece at Diamantaire Paris?

Yes, Diamantaire Paris offers a free and confidential jewelry appraisal. You can also send a pre-appraisal by email to [email protected], although it is recommended to visit in person for a more accurate evaluation.

Where is Diamantaire Paris located and is it possible to visit without an appointment?

Diamantaire Paris is located at 43 rue Beaubourg, 75003 Paris, near the Réaumur – Sébastopol metro station. You can visit without an appointment or make one if you prefer.

What is the jewelry buyback policy of Diamantaire Paris?

Diamantaire Paris offers the best jewelry buyback offers on the market. If you have a better offer elsewhere, they commit to making an even better offer. They also have a catalog of antique diamond jewelry for sale.

At Diamantaire Paris, we are proud of our expertise in diamonds and high-quality jewelry. Our guide on diamond shape is designed to help our clients understand the subtleties and unique characteristics of each precious stone. We know that choosing the right diamond can be an important decision, which is why we offer personalized advice on which diamond to choose when purchasing a diamond, considering your preferences and budget.

For those looking to sell their jewelry, we offer a free and expert evaluation. Whether you wish to sell a bracelet or any other precious jewelry, our team of experts is here to provide you with an accurate estimate. We also understand the importance of designer pieces and offer specialized services for selling designer jewelry like JAR.

Our commitment to excellence is also reflected in our customer service. For any questions or requests, feel free to contact us. We are here to assist you at every step, whether for buying, selling, or appraising your jewelry and diamonds.

Additionally, for those looking to invest in unique pieces, we offer an exquisite selection of vintage Van Cleef & Arpels sets. These timeless pieces are not only a financial investment but also a legacy of beauty and elegance.

At Diamantaire Paris, we are dedicated to providing an exceptional experience to our clients, combining expertise, passion, and unmatched customer service. Whether you are looking to buy, sell, or simply appraise a diamond or jewelry, we are your trusted partner in the fascinating world of jewelry.