Diamond Cuts and Shapes: Cushion Cut Diamonds

Diamonds have always been the most popular gemstone, especially with women. The beauty and elegance of a diamond cannot be compared with that of any other gemstone and hence the popularity, in spite of being the most expensive gemstone. The cut and shape of a diamond can highly influence its appearance, appeal and value. The 'cut' of a diamond refers to the number of facets and the proportions (width and depth) of the diamond. There are various types of diamond cuts like the emerald cut, the asscher cut, the rose cut, etc. The cushion cut is one of the various diamond cuts and is becoming increasingly popular.

Cushion Cut Diamonds

History
Cushion cut diamonds were very popular and were in great demand in the late 1800s and early 1900s. It was referred to as the 'pillow cut' or the 'candlelight diamond' as it appeared most brilliant in candlelight. Since 1830, most diamonds were cut in this style for almost 70 years and the popularity has re-emerged with those looking for traditionally cut diamonds.

Structure
The structure of cushion cut diamonds is much like a stuffed pillow. They are rectangular or square in shape with rounded corners and look quite similar to emerald, oval and princess cut diamonds. They have around 58 facets and are more dispersive compared to round brilliant diamonds. The cushion cut is often referred to as an 'antique cut' that resembles a mix of the 'Old Mine cut' and the 'Oval cut'. Cushion cut diamonds also have a culet beneath the pavilion.

Look
Cushion cut diamonds have an antique, classic and romantic look. The rounded corners give it a soft look and its proportions reflect its natural beauty and shine. It appears less brilliant than the round brilliant diamonds, but when cut with a combination of proportions, it appears quite brilliant and fiery.

Quality
The quality of cushion cut diamonds can be hampered if the culet is too large. Its shine is also less, compared to that of other diamonds, due to the number of facets that it has. The color and clarity of cushion cut diamonds are important as even a minute flaw would be clearly visible. While purchasing cushion cut diamonds, it would be ideal to opt for one that reflects the maximum amount of light with minimum opacity and also consider its symmetry and polish.

Cushion Cut Diamond Rings
Cushion cut diamonds are often used to make stylish diamond rings and diamond jewelry. As cushion cut diamonds have a romantic and classic look, they make ideal engagement rings and wedding rings. They look great as solitaires or with accent stones and can have a modern or contemporary setting. The commonly used setting for cushion cut diamonds in rings is the four-prolonged setting. The most popular style of setting cushion cut diamonds is the 'halo setting' in which the center stone is surrounded by a ring of diamonds. The 'bead setting' and 'pave setting' are also popular. They can also be set in earrings and pendants to complement the ring.

Cushion cut diamonds are getting back in fashion and its soft, classic features make it stand out in the crowd of other diamonds.