Princess cut and cushion cut diamonds are both beautiful squared diamond shapes. These fancy shaped diamonds can add a lovely, unique look to your engagement ring. But how do you choose between these two shapes? In this post, we’ll talk about the definition of princess cut and cushion cut diamonds, their style differences, and their price differences to help you decide. Read on to learn how to choose a princess cut or cushion cut engagement ring!
Princess Cut vs. Cushion Cut: Definitions
First, let’s talk about the definitions of these two shapes so you understand their anatomy and what makes their cuts different.
Princess Cut Diamond Definition
Princess cut diamonds are a modern diamond cut, having been invented in the 1960s. This shape looks like a square when viewed from above. From the side, it looks like an inverted pyramid. The princess cut diamond features a modified version of the round diamond’s brilliant cut and is sometimes also called a “square modified brilliant” diamond.
Princess cut diamonds have many angular features, due to their exterior shape and their faceting pattern, which is composed of triangular and kite-shaped facets. Typically, a princess cut diamond has around 58 facets. Though, they can have as few as 50 facets and as many as 144 facets.
Cushion Cut Diamond Definition
Cushion cut diamonds get their name from how they look when viewed from above. The table of a cushion cut diamond is shaped like a square with softly rounded corners, like a pillow or a cushion.
Cushion cut diamonds are actually an evolution of a much older diamond cut, the old mine cut. Cushion cut diamonds have the same shape as an old mine cut diamond, but are outfitted with a modern brilliant cut to enhance their sparkle. Because cushion cut diamonds evolved from this older shape, they’re often considered a vintage shape.
Though cushion cut diamond diamonds feature a brilliant cut, they reflect light a bit differently than many other brilliant shapes. Due to their faceting pattern, cushion cut diamonds have a bit less brilliance than some other brilliant diamond shapes. However, they also tend to have more fire, which is the term for the rainbow colored light emitted from a diamond.
Princess Cut vs. Cushion Cut: Style and Ring Inspiration
Princess cut diamonds and cushion cut diamonds are similar in shape, yet quite different in style. The princess cut diamond has a very modern, sleek look. The sharp, geometric shape of a princess cut diamond gives it a refined, contemporary style. On the contrast, cushion cut diamonds have a much softer look, due to their rounded edges. Cushion cut diamonds are highly romantic and are often loved by those who adore all things vintage.
Let’s take a look at some princess cut and cushion cut engagement rings so you can see their style differences in action.
Classic Ribbon Halo Engagement Ring
The Classic Ribbon Halo Engagement Ring showcases the beauty of a classic princess cut diamond setting. In this design, a princess cut diamond is set in a traditional four prong setting. This ring’s band is accented with round pave diamonds that add extra shimmer to the piece.
Classic Princess Halo Engagement Ring
The Classic Halo engagement ring is a modern and sophisticated choice. The incorporation of a diamond halo around the center stone is a classic and popular design element that adds both brilliance and emphasis to the focal point. The use of round cut diamond accents to embrace the center stone in the shimmering halo, as well as line the profile of the crown, creates a cohesive and elegant look. The cascading diamonds on 3/4 of the delicate, dainty band not only enhances the overall sparkle but also contribute to a sense of continuity and fluidity in the design.Click here to view more princess cut diamond engagement rings.
Classic Cushion Halo Engagement Ring
Here,The Classic Halo Engagement Ring setting is used with a cushion cut diamond. The style difference between cushion cut and princess cut diamonds is quite apparent in this design. While this setting looked very modern when used with a princess cut diamond, it looks quite soft and romantic with a cushion cut diamond and cushion-shaped halo.
Luxe Half Moon Three Stone Engagement Ring
This one-of-a-kind Luxe Half Moon Three Stone Engagement Ring is absolutely breathtaking. The incorporation of three stones, often symbolizing past, present and future, adds sentimental value to the design. Additionally, the pavé diamonds down the band contribute to a dazzling and sophisticated appearance ensuring that the ring sparkles from every angle. The unique use of half moon, or crescent cut, diamonds flanking the center stone adds to the luxe design. The stunning diamond lined profile, including the diamond lined prongs, is a beautiful addition. This ring is likely to be a timeless and elegant choice, capturing attention with its brilliance and meaningful symbolism.
Cross Over Double Hidden Halo Engagement Ring
Lastly, we have The Cross Over Double Hidden Halo Engagement Ring. The criss-cross, vine-like pattern gives it a unique and artistic touch, suggesting a connection to the natural world. The slender curves of the diamond lined precious metal band twisted together creates a delicate and sparkling effect, contributing to the overall dainty and beautiful appearance of the ring. The hidden features of this ring are the beautifully diamond lined hidden halo and diamond lined bridge. The thicker claw style prongs holding the center stone showcases bold craftsmanship, making the ring stand out with a sense of grandeur. The nature-inspired theme adds a touch of romance and symbolism, making it an ideal choice for those who appreciate jewelry with meaning.
Princess Cut vs. Cushion Cut: Price
Both princess cut and cushion cut diamonds are fancy shaped diamonds, which is a category that encompasses every diamond that is not a round brilliant diamond. Round brilliant diamonds are easily the most expensive diamond shape. This is partially because there is more raw diamond waste when a round diamond is cut. Then, partially because round diamonds are in very high demand, which means retailers tend to mark up their price.
When you compare the prices of round brilliant and fancy shaped diamonds, you’ll find that all fancy shaped diamonds cost less per carat than round brilliant diamonds do (assuming the compared diamonds have the same level of quality). But how much less? And which is a better value between princess cut and cushion cut diamonds?
Cushion cut diamonds currently have princess cut diamonds beat when it comes to value. On average, princess cut diamonds will cost 10% less than round diamonds of the same carat and quality. While cushion cut diamonds cost around 25% less than round brilliant diamonds of the same carat and quality. However, cushion cut diamonds are starting to become more expensive, due to growing demand for the shape.
Final Thoughts
Princess cut and cushion cut diamonds are both lovely choices for your engagement ring. If you’re still on the fence between these two diamond shapes, browse our diamond shape guide. There, you’ll learn even more about cushion cut diamonds and princess cut diamonds. You can also browse through the other diamond shapes to see how cushion cut diamonds and princess cut diamonds shape up against the competition.
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