A solitaire diamond engagement ring is a classic choice, simplicity that never goes out of style. A solitaire ring is a single diamond mounted on a band. By focusing all attention on the single diamond setting, the diamond's visibility and brilliance is highlighted.
Diamond certificates, or grading reports, are issued by accredited gemological laboratories, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). When considering a diamond purchase, it is essential to review its certification. These reports, issued by grading entities (GIA, IGI, HRD), use trained gemologists to evaluate and measure each diamond using professional tools such as loupes and microscopes. These certificates provide detailed information and grades for each diamond's characteristics based on the 4Cs: carat, colour, clarity, and cut. The final grading significantly influences the diamond’s price.
Different grading laboratories may evaluate and describe diamonds in varying ways, sometimes leading to significant differences. It is important to identify which grading laboratories are trustworthy and reliable. These variations mean diamond certificates are not all equal, making the price and value of diamonds difficult to compare across different certifications.
It is crucial to purchase diamonds with certificates from highly reputable grading entities and to thoroughly review the diamond before making a purchase.
If you need an expert review of a diamond's certification, please contact us and we will gladly help find the right diamond for you.
Diamond shape refers to the geometric outline and overall physical form of a diamond, which is distinct from the diamond's cut quality. The shape is the external figure or silhouette of the diamond when viewed from the top.
Determining the best diamond shape is subjective and depends on personal preferences, style, and individual taste. Some individuals prefer a diamond with intense brilliance and sparkle, while others may favour a shape that offers a more linear flash effect. Each diamond shape has unique characteristics and appeal.
However, the round brilliant cut is frequently regarded as the most popular and widely favoured diamond shape due to its exceptional brilliance and fire. Round diamonds are known for their symmetry, balanced proportions, and ability to maximise light reflection, resulting in a dazzling visual effect.
The popularity of certain diamond shapes, particularly the round brilliant cut, results in a price premium. This is due to the significant material waste generated in cutting a round diamond and their high demand.
Ultimately, the best diamond shape is subjective. You should choose a shape that aligns with your personal taste and preferences.
The round brilliant cut diamond is the most popular and widely recognised diamond shape. Known for its exceptional sparkle, this shape features 58 facets designed to maximise light reflection, enhancing the diamond's brilliance and fire.
Oval diamonds offer a similar brilliance to round diamonds but with an elongated shape, creating an illusion of greater size. This shape can make fingers appear longer and more slender.
The emerald cut diamond is known for its elegant, rectangular shape with truncated corners and step-like facets. This cut emphasises clarity and colour over brilliance, creating a sophisticated and understated look.
The princess cut diamond is a square or rectangular shape with pointed corners and brilliant-style facets. It is the most popular non-round diamond shape, known for its contemporary look and excellent light performance.
The Asscher cut diamond features a square shape with deeply trimmed corners, resembling an octagon. This shape is similar to the emerald cut but with more facets, enhancing its brilliance while maintaining a vintage appeal.
Radiant cut diamonds combine the elegance of the emerald shape with the brilliance of the round cut. With its trimmed corners and numerous facets, the radiant cut offers a unique blend of sparkle and shape versatility.
The cushion cut diamond, also known as a pillow cut, has rounded corners and larger facets. This shape combines a classic look with a modern appeal, offering a distinctive sparkle and a soft, romantic appearance.
Pear-shaped diamonds, also known as teardrop diamonds, combine the round and marquise shapes. This cut features a single point and a rounded end, providing a unique silhouette that can elongate the finger.
The marquise cut diamond, characterised by its elongated shape with pointed ends, maximises carat weight and creates the illusion of a larger diamond. This shape is ideal for those seeking a dramatic and elegant look.
Each diamond shape has unique characteristics that cater to different aesthetic preferences and styles. When choosing a diamond, it is important to consider how these shapes align with personal taste and the desired look of the jewellery piece.
