The Top 5 Round Engagement Ring Cut Choices

When looking at different engagement ring cuts, a couple has so many beautiful and unique choices that it can become an overwhelming decision. One easy way to organise all the different shapes available for a diamond is to split your options into two rough categories, known as round cuts and square cuts. The five most popular round cuts today are the classic round, oval, marquise, pear, and heart shaped options, and each has their own benefits and drawbacks.

The Classic and Reliable Round Cut

The round cut is by far the most popular diamond cut today, claiming over 75% of the market with its versatile brilliance. A round diamond reflects light in a way that fancy cuts usually do not, with maximising light return and dispersion that creates a brilliant and bright centre stone for any engagement ring. This cut became increasingly popular in 1919 with the publication of Marcel Tolkowsky’s thesis that explored the associated qualities. The book was called, "Diamond Design: A Study of the Reflection and Refraction of Light in Diamond." Unfortunately, the stunning round diamond costs more per carat than most, due to a very high demand, as well as a high waste yield from the rough stone when making the cut. A round diamond makes for a reliable and classic, yet versatile engagement ring cut that is fitting to nearly any relationship.

The Unique but Safe Oval

For the couple who enjoys the look of the classic round shape but is looking for something a bit more unique for their engagement ring cut, an oval diamond can be the perfect solution. The oval’s elongated shape can also add to the grandeur of an engagement ring with its illusion of greater size, while still creating a slimming effect on the appearance of the finger. Created in the 1960s by Lazare Kaplan, the width of the oval diamond completely depends on preference, and the decision is typically based on whether or not it will be flanked by complimentary stones or stand alone as a solitaire.

The Lip-Puckering Marquise Cut

The eye-catching marquise diamond makes a statement with its rugby ball shape that creates the illusion of being larger than it is in reality. Giving the finger an elongated and slim look similar to that of an oval stone, the marquise cut claims its name from the Marquise of Pompadour’s perfect lip shape that King Louis XIV of France had a stone made to duplicate. This engagement ring cut is one of the best for maximising the size of a diamond, sporting the largest crown size of any shape.

The Off-Balance but Beautiful Pear

A cross between the marquise and the oval shapes, the pear cut is shaped like its name-sake, with one end of the stone tapering to a point. The point is designed to be worn towards the fingertips so the tapered shape gives the fingers a slimming effect. The stone should always be set with a prong at the tip of the point to protect it, and the cut should always be symmetric with the tip lining up with the apex of the rounded end. The rounded end should never appear too narrow or squatty, and instead should create the image of a smooth semi-circle with identical curves.

The Classic Symbol of Love

There is nothing that says love like the shape of a heart, and a heart cut diamond is no exception. This engagement ring cut is very popular today and can be tailored to personal preference by choosing a narrower or fatter heart shape. However, it is critical that the two sides of the heart are identical, with a distinct cleft between the two halves. A heart cut can be difficult with a smaller carat stone, as it can become tough to make out the shape, especially once set in prongs. Therefore, for smaller hearts, a three-prong setting with a prong on each lobe and one at the point is best, or indeed a bezel setting is suggested to emphasise the elegant and romantic shape of a smaller stone.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From the best engagement ring cut to precious metals and coloured stones, 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.