Princess, cushion, emerald. These may sound like items on a royal shopping list. But in this case, they’re also engagement ring shapes!
Choosing the perfect engagement ring is like picking the perfect partner—exciting, a bit overwhelming, and ultimately magical.
But first, the overwhelming bit. The fact of the matter is that there’s a ton of factors to consider when choosing the right engagement ring, like:
- What type of gemstone should you pick? (Diamonds are classic, but colored stones like emeralds and sapphires are hot right now!)
- How many carats should the stones be?
- Should you opt for a lab grown diamond or a mined diamond?
- How much should you spend on an engagement ring?
- And, the big one: what engagement ring shape should I choose?
The engagement ring shape is, after all, what can make or break whether your partner likes it or loves it. So here’s everything you need to know to absolutely nail it when it comes to the perfect engagement ring shapes.
What Is Diamond Shape / Gemstone Shape?
A diamond or gemstone’s shape is the geometric cut you see when looking at the ring. There are many beautiful shapes to choose from when selecting an engagement ring, including the traditional round shape, elaborate oval shape, fashionable pear shape, and so many more.
Your choice will depend on your partner’s style or even a shape that holds a special meaning for your relationship. A few considerations when choosing your engagement ring shape:
- Different diamond shapes will have different length-to-width ratios—the right proportions can enhance the main stone’s appearance.
- Engagement ring diamonds are typically more elaborate in shape and cut than wedding band diamonds.
- The engagement band style or setting, describes the placement of the diamond or diamonds on the ring, and can accentuate the center stone.
10 Most Popular Engagement Ring Diamond Shapes
#1 – Round-Shaped Diamonds
The brilliant round-cut diamond is the traditional and timeless sparkling diamond most couples choose for their engagement rings. Round-cut diamonds are the most brilliant and sought-after—and also tend to cost more per carat than other shapes.
#2 – Princess Cut Diamonds
The princess-cut diamond is known for its sharp corners and straight edges. These tend to be elegant, eye-catching, and often evoke an Art Deco aesthetic. Though they reached peak popularity in the 80’s and 90’s, the princess cut made a comeback in the early 2000s.
#3 – Cushion Cut Diamonds
Have you ever seen the Hope Diamond? The center stone, which has been passed down through lords and kings alike, and is surrounded by alternating pear and cushion-shaped diamonds. In other words, cushion-shaped says one thing: opulence.
Cushion-shaped diamonds have rounded edges and “pouf out” like a bit. Kind of like a couch cushion (if the edges are straight, then it’s a princess cut). Larger facets in cushion-cut gems create exceptional fire (industry-speak for colorful flashes of reflected light).
#4 – Emerald Cut Diamonds
Rising in popularity during the Art Deco era of the 20’s and 30s, the emerald cut isn’t just for emeralds—it works for diamonds, too. Emerald shaped diamonds appear larger than round-cut diamonds due to their elongated shape.
When cut well, they can create a hall of mirrors visual effect, which is stunning and artistic. Just look at Paris Hilton’s emerald-cut engagement ring and see for yourself!
#5 – Marquise Cut Diamonds
The marquise-shaped engagement ring, named after the Marquis de Pompadour, has been considered romantic since its creation in 18th-century France. Well-cut marquise-shaped diamonds often appear larger than round-cut diamonds of the same weight—and cost less.
#6 – Oval-Shaped Diamonds
Oval-cut diamonds are known for their romance and femininity. Due to its elongated shape, the oval diamond appears larger than the round brilliant, but it is also one of the most sparkly diamond shapes.
It has also been trendy in recent years—especially since 2021 when Travis Barker popped the question to Kourtney Kardashian with a stunning 10 to 12 carat oval-shaped diamond engagement ring.
#7 – Pear Cut Diamonds
The pear-cut (or pear-shaped) diamond is making a comeback in recent years. The round edges taper to a point, giving it a unique and modern teardrop appearance. Pear-shaped engagement rings are a super-sparkly and elegant choice.
#8 – Asscher Cut
You can tell an Asscher-cut diamond by its square outline, cropped corners, and signature X-shaped pattern, which many call “Asscher’s windmill.” The distinctive geometric style makes this diamond a bright & novel engagement ring shape.
#9 – Baguette Cut
Baguette-cut diamonds are similar to emerald cuts but slimmer in shape. These diamonds are common in three-stone engagement rings on either side of the center diamond. It is more understated but still a lovely and affordable choice. These make great accent diamonds for any shape stone.
#10 – Trillion Cut
The trillion-cut diamond is a modified brilliant cut that is triangular rather than circular. Like the baguette cut, these diamonds often accentuate the central stone. Some brides find that a trillion-cut diamond makes a stunning statement as the center stone.
Cost Factors When Choosing An Engagement Ring Shape
Carat Size
If you’re new to the world of fine jewelry, then the first thing you need to know is that the weight of a gemstone significantly impacts its price.
For instance, if you’re wearing a 6 to 10 carat oval diamond like Hailey Beiber, you’re looking at an engagement ring worth half a million dollars. But don’t panic—that’s nowhere near the standard. Brides.com reports that most engagement rings are actually about one carat.
Mined vs. Lab-Grown
If you’re looking to get the most carats for your engagement ring budget, then lab-grown stones are the way to go. Lab-grown diamonds are chemically identical to mined diamonds but can cost up to 70-80% less.
This means you can get a larger, more impressive diamond for the same investment or save money—without compromising on the sparkle.
Plus, many lab diamonds are mined with eco-friendly solar power so they are more eco-friendly than diamonds mined from the earth.
Shape and Cut Efficiency
Some diamond shapes are more economical than others due to their cut efficiency. Round diamonds, for instance, may result in a higher waste of the raw material, thereby increasing their cost.
In contrast, shapes like marquise or pear might utilize the rough stone more efficiently, offering more size for your dollar.
Sustainability
According to a 2022 report, 58% of consumers would prefer diamonds produced in a socially and environmentally responsible way.
Today, ⅓ of the mined diamonds come from Russia, which is undergoing sanctions right now. And several other countries that mine diamonds are also under scrutiny for their human rights violations.
In addition, mining diamonds takes a huge toll on the environment. Large craters are dug to get to the rough diamond threads deep in the earth. Such mining does impact the environment negatively.
So chances are high that your partner cares about where the engagement ring stone comes from—another reason to opt for an ethical lab-grown diamond.
Engagement Ring Shapes: Frequently Asked Questions
What shape should an engagement ring be?
An engagement ring can be any shape you like; the most important thing is that you and your partner love it because it’s meaningful to you both.
What is the most popular engagement ring shape?
Round diamonds are the most popular engagement ring shape because of their brilliance and sparkle. Oval brilliant diamonds are a close second, especially recently with all the celebrity attention on them.
What is the most popular engagement ring shape of 2023?
The round cut diamond was the most popular engagement ring shape of 2023, which is no surprise since it is a timeless and classic cut and shape.
Ready To Find Your Dream Engagement Ring?
There are many beautiful cuts, shapes, and styles to choose from when selecting your dream engagement ring.
Scott’s Custom Jewelry can help you find an engagement ring that suits your relationship to a “T. ”We can help you find a unique and extraordinary ring for that perfect moment when the love of your life says, “Yes!”
Explore beautiful custom rings for every love story today! We can’t wait to help you create the perfect moment.