A plain rough stone is superbly cut into beautiful multi-faceted stones, resulting in a variety of diamond shapes. Each diamond shape has been given a unique style that has influenced the overall appearance of a diamond engagement ring in one way or another.
To this day, the most popular diamond shape remains the round cut because of its perfect symmetry and superior sparkling ability. However, more and more couples are now focusing on the beauty and elegance of fancy diamond shapes. The cushion cut diamond and princess cut diamond are two of the hottest diamond cuts of the moment, thanks to their firm and soft nature that offers a modern and chic look.
Both cushion cut and princess cut diamonds are square diamonds that are very similar in appearance but fundamentally different in nature. So, cushion cut vs. princess cut, what is the difference? What is the best way to choose between a cushion cut and a princess cut diamond?
What is a Cushion Cut Diamond?
A cushion cut diamond is a diamond that combines square cutting techniques with rounded corners. Unlike the angular princess cut diamond, the cushion cut diamond has rounded and softened edges, resembling a pillow, hence the name.
In fact, the classic cushion cut has been around for almost 200 years, dating back to the 1700s when it was known as the old mine cut. However, it was the most popular diamond shape in the early 20th century. The old mine cut was essentially the same as today\'s cushion cut, a square cut with rounded corners and 58 facets, but the old mine cut was mostly cut by hand with the help of machinery.
As diamond cutting techniques, tools and knowledge advanced, so did the quality and style of diamond cuts. The old mine cut pattern was combined with the round brilliant cut process to create the cushion cut diamond, which is more in line with modern aesthetics. One of the only modern diamond cuts with round elements and geometric lines, the cushion cut diamond is both vintage and contemporary in style, a perfect blend of the old and new worlds.
Modern cushion cut diamonds typically feature three different types of pavilion patterns. One type has four kite shaped facets between the girdle, pavilion and the culet. The second type has eight kite shaped facets. The third is what GIA calls a modified cushion cut, which has an additional row of facets on the pavilion. This modified cushion cut produces a beautiful " crushed ice" effect that gives the diamond a more intense and distinctive fire.
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