We cut all ten common shapes in-house. This guide is the short version of what our sales team tells every new customer: which shape gives what look, and where it should go.
Brilliant cuts (max sparkle)
- Round brilliant: the 57-facet benchmark, best all-around light return. Solitaire, studs, tennis.
- Oval: round stretched long, looks bigger on the finger, hides inclusions well.
- Pear: teardrop, point up lengthens the finger, point sideways makes drop earrings.
- Marquise: longest shape, max finger coverage, watch for bow-tie if poorly cut.
- Heart: romantic, balanced cleft is everything; promise rings and pendants.
Step cuts (quiet, architectural)
- Emerald: rectangular hall of mirrors, large table, demands clean clarity.
- Asscher: square emerald, art-deco concentric steps, small table, deep pavilion.
Hybrid cuts (modern balance)
- Cushion: square with rounded corners, soft warm sparkle, halo and vintage rings.
- Princess: sharp square brilliant, high fire, best-value square, protect the corners.
- Radiant: emerald outline with brilliant pavilion, modern rectangle that fires like a round.
How to choose
If your client wants maximum sparkle and safety, pick round or radiant. If they want a slender, modern look, pick oval or marquise. If they want understated luxury, pick emerald or asscher. If they want vintage warmth, pick cushion. We can cut all of these to custom proportions and sizes beyond the catalog.