Gemstones come in various shapes, sizes, and colors, making them popular among jewelry makers and collectors. One important aspect of gems is their cut, which can greatly affect their brilliance, fire, and overall beauty. Today, follow SHE.SAID.YES to explore the different types of gemstone cuts and what makes each unique.
The Round Cut
The round cut is one of the most popular and traditional gemstone cuts. It creates a round shape with 57 or 58 facets to maximize the stone’s brilliance and fire, so it is an exceptional cutting for diamonds and other translucent gemstones. In addition, the round cut is versatile and works well with various stone sizes and colors, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other types of jewelry.
The Oval Cut
The oval-cut gemstone has an elongated elliptical shape, and it’s a popular choice among those looking for a unique and elegant cut. The cut typically has 56 to 58 facets, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. Oval gemstones are created with the same cutting technique as round gemstones, but they have an elongated shape that can make fingers look longer and slimmer. The jewelers use this cut in various engagement ring styles, from vintage to modern, thanks to its versatility.
The Pear Cut
The pear-cut gemstone, also known as the teardrop cut, is a hybrid of the round and marquise cuts. It has a unique shape that’s pointed at one end and rounded at the other, resembling a teardrop. The cut usually features 58 to 71 facets, which gives it a brilliant sparkle. It’s a popular choice for engagement rings, pendants, and earrings. It is also versatile enough to suit different styles, from classic Victorian to modern minimalism. In addition, the elongated shape of the pear gemstone also creates the illusion of a long and slender finger.
The Cushion Cut
The cushion cut has been popular for over a century. It has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners and larger facets that maximize the stone’s brilliance. It’s known for its vintage look and versatility, as it can be used in traditional or modern setting designs. The cushion cut typically has 58 facets and is a popular choice for engagement rings. It also has a softer, romantic appearance that appeals to many couples looking for a unique and timeless gemstone cut.
The Princess Cut
The princess cut is a square or rectangular-shaped gemstone cut initially created in the 1980s. It is one of the most popular gemstone cuts due to its distinctive shape and modern appearance. The cut is designed to maximize the stone’s brilliance and make it appear larger than other gemstone shapes of the same carat weight. The princess cut typically has 76 facets and is versatile enough to suit a wide range of engagement ring styles and settings.