The brilliant (or round) cut is the most popular and researched diamond shape available today. Diamond cutters have been using advanced theories for the behaviour of light and precise mathematical calculations to optimise the fire and brilliance in a round diamond. As well as being the most popular and researched shape, a round diamond will normally give you more flexibility for balancing cut, colour and clarity grades whilst still achieving your required fire and brilliance.

A traditional brilliant cut diamond brings out the very best in the very best diamonds, therefore, the two highest cut grades, ideal or very good, and ideal, excellent or very good polish and symmetry grades are recommended.

The most popular non-round diamond, very popular for engagement rings. The princess cut is traditionally square with pointed corners, though the shape can vary from more rectangular to square. A length to width ratio is used when deciding just how square you want a princess cut to be.

Look for length-to-width ratios between 1 and 1.05 for square, or a ratio higher than 1.10. for rectangular.

This cut is characterised by its pavillion, which is cut with rectangular facets and creates a truly unique appearance. The large open table is good for showing off diamonds with a high level of clarity. Like the princess cut, emerald cut diamonds can vary in how rectangular they are. An Asscher cut diamond may be a good alternative if you are seeking a more square shape. Again, the length-to-width ratio determines the outline of this diamond and how it looks from above.

A classic emerald cut diamond usually has a length-to-width ratio between 1.30 and 1.40.

Almost identical to the emerald cut diamond, except that it is square. Like the emerald, This cut has a pavilion which is cut with rectangular facets. Be sure to view the clarity plot on the diamond certificate when choosing this cut, as this shape highlights the clarity of the diamond.

Diamonds from Harding’s Jewellery are square, as each one is guaranteed to have a length-to-width ratio between 1.00 and 1.05.

The oval cut has a striking brilliance similar only to a round cut diamond. Another reason oval cuts are popular is that they accentuate long slender fingers. The diamonds outline and how it looks from above, is determined by its length-to-width ratio.

Traditional oval cut diamonds have typical length-to-width ratios between 1.33 and 1.66.

A marquise cut diamond can maximise a diamond’s carat weight, making it much larger-looking. The length of a marquise cut diamond makes the finger appear long and slender, much like an oval cut. The length-to-width ratio determines the diamonds outline and what it will look like when viewed from the above.

Most traditional marquise cut diamonds have length-to-width ratios between 1.75 and 2.25.

Also known as the teardrop cut diamond for its single point and rounded end. The interesting and unique look of a pear cut diamond makes it a popular choice for a variety of diamond jewellery pieces. The length of the diamond also creates a subtle slimming effect on the fingers. The diamonds outline and how it looks from above is determined by the length-to-width ratio.

Traditional pear cut diamonds have length-to-width ratios typically between 1.45 and 1.75.

The trimmed corners are what defines this diamond cut. This diamond is a versatile choice for various pieces of jewellery. Radiant cut diamonds can vary in how rectangular they are. The length-to-width ratio determines the diamonds outline and how it appears from above.

If you prefer a radiant cut diamond that is square, look for length-to-width ratios between 1.00 and 1.05. If you prefer a more rectangular cut then look for ratios greater than 1.10.

This particular cut has been one of the most popular for over a century. Also referred to as the “pillow cut”, they have rounded corners and larger facets to increase their brilliance. The larger facets also highlight a diamond’s clarity. The length-to-width ratio determines the diamonds outline and what it will look like when viewed from above.

For a squarer cushion cut diamond the typical length-to-width ratios are between 1.00 and 1.05. For more rectangular cuts the ratios are usually greater than 1.15.

The uniqueness of the heart cut diamond makes it a very distinctive choice for a great variety of diamond jewellery. The universal symbol of love. The length-to-width ratio determines the diamonds outline and what it will look like when viewed from above.

Traditional heart cut diamonds have length-to-width ratios of between 0.90 and 1.10.