The History Of Cushion Cut Engagement Rings

Engaged couples nowadays are spoiled for choice. There are seemingly hundreds of stone-and-band combinations to choose from, ranging from the more traditional to the more outlandish or uncommon, and befitting all budgets, tastes and even finger types.

Once upon a time, however, couples wishing to demonstrate their affection for each other had fewer options to choose from when it came to selecting a ring. Back in those days – during the Middle Ages and later in the Edwardian and Victorian periods – there were very few types of rings to choose from, and even when diamonds entered the scene in the 19th century, customers were limited to only a scant few types of cut.

During that period in history, cushion cut engagement rings were pretty much the standard. This is one of the oldest types of cuts, second only to the heart-shaped cut, references to which can be traced as far back as the 15th century, even before diamonds entered the scene. Cushion cut engagement rings came about a few centuries later, at the dawn of the 19th century, and remain the paradigm for diamond cutting for the following 100 years, before going out of style in the first few years of the 20th century, when replaced with more modern and avant-garde cuts.

Still, for the century or so in which they reigned supreme over the diamond ring market, cushion cut engagement rings were the thing to have. This type of cut gives the stone a traditionally beautiful appearance, putting particular emphasis on its size and brilliance. As such, it was highly favoured by nobles and other social luminaries, who appreciated the mixture of elegance and ostentation the cut allowed for.

During this period, many famous diamonds were subject to a classic cushion cut, including but not limited to the blue Hope Diamond, the Regent Diamond and the yellow Tiffany Diamond. The largest sapphire in the world, the Logan Sapphire, also benefited from a cushion cut.

In recent years, cushion cut engagement rings have experienced something of a revival, and find themselves once again highly in demand with newly engaged couples. This sudden surge in popularity even led popular high-end retailer Tiffany’s to introduce the Legacy Collection, released in 2003 and centred around jewels with this type of cut. Unlike in earlier times, however, cushion-cut baubles are now rather hard to find, making them even more desirable to the engagement ring buying public. As rare as it may currently be, however, this cut remains a testament to the motto that truly classic designs never go out of style!

Laura L Bolick is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From cushion cut engagement rings to princess cuts and engraved bands, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.