Cushion-cut diamonds exude a stunning allure, evoking a vintage charm that harks back to their popularity in the 18th century. Their timeless beauty and captivating charm have made them one of the most sought-after diamond shapes in today’s times.
If you’re drawn to the rare and distinctive elegance of the antique cushion cut diamond, there are some essential tips you should consider before making a purchase. This list of valuable insights includes general advice on cushion-cut diamonds and specific guidance on understanding their unique qualities.
What is a Cushion Cut Diamond?
The cushion-cut diamond beautifully blends the elegance of modern round-cut diamonds with the timeless charm of the classic old-mine facet pattern. Typically featuring a soft square or rectangular shape with gently curved edges, this diamond exudes a distinct allure.
In essence, a cushion-cut diamond is a harmonious fusion of a square cut and rounded corners, creating a delightful resemblance to a plush pillow. It is precisely this appearance that earned it the name “cushion cut.”
The key features that set a cushion-cut diamond apart are as follows:
- Square or rectangular shape
- Rounded edges
- Brilliant cut style, akin to round brilliant and princess cut diamonds
- Vintage and antique look, evoking a sense of timeless elegance
However, before arriving at your ultimate decision, there are specific elements that require careful consideration. This article aims to furnish you with the essential factors to examine during this process.
Things to consider before buying cushion cut diamonds
4Cs of Diamond
Irrespective of the diamond you wish to purchase, it is essential always to evaluate the 4Cs of the diamond. While the “cushion cut” is indeed a significant factor, making the best purchase also relies on considering the other three Cs.
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That is why the 4Cs, comprising Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight, hold significant importance when evaluating cushion cut diamonds. A well-cut diamond maximizes brilliance and sparkle, while a colourless or near-colourless grade enhances its beauty. Optimal clarity ensures a visually appealing diamond without visible flaws, and the carat weight determines its size. By considering and balancing these factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect cushion-cut diamond that aligns with your preferences and requirements.
Cushion Cut Diamond Ratio
Cushion-cut diamonds often come perfectly square with a 1 to 1 length-to-width ratio. However, these diamonds can also be found with various ratios, giving them a more square or rectangular appearance. To achieve a more square look, opt for a ratio between 1.00 and 1.09, while for a more rectangular appearance, consider a ratio between 1.15 and 1.50.
It’s important to note that there is no universal “best” ratio for cushion-cut diamonds since it ultimately depends on personal preferences. Nevertheless, the most popular ratio range for cushion-cut diamonds falls between 1.10 and 1.20.
Cushion cut diamond depth
To ensure optimal light reflection, the depth and table percentages play a crucial role in a cushion cut diamond. For the best results, experts typically advise selecting diamonds with depth and table percentages below 70%.
Hearts and Arrows
If your quest is for the finest cut, you might find yourself captivated by cushion-cut diamonds featuring Hearts and Arrows. Although these cushions showcase exceptional performance, it’s essential to remember that cushion-cut diamonds without the hearts-and-arrows pattern can still represent brilliant performance. Moreover, the hearts-and-arrows design is typically visible only in “chunky” cushions, while those who prefer the “crushed ice” look should avoid Hearts and Arrows.
Shape Appeal
Cushion-cut diamonds come in a variety of shapes, spanning from almost round to almost square. The ideal choice lies in finding a visually appealing middle ground, featuring rounded corners and subtly curved sides. To ensure you get the desired shape, it’s crucial to have a clear image of the diamond. If the shape appears off or doesn’t meet your preferences, it’s best to refrain from making the purchase.
If you wish to buy round diamonds or square diamonds with precise cuts and competitive prices, visit Uniglo Diamonds. They are one of the most reliable and leading diamond manufacturers in Belgium.