Diamond Weight Guide — Round Size to Carat Table & Material Comparison | FancyDiamondJewels

Diamond Weight Education — Chapter 1

Round Diamond Weight Guide — From mm to Carat (Round 1 pcs Calculator)

Chapter 1 explains how round diameters map to carat weights, the trade table used in the Round 1 pcs Calculator, and how density differences affect equivalent weights for lab diamonds, moissanite and simulants.

Why accurate weight estimate matters

Estimating carat from millimetres is essential for quick quoting, visual matching, and pre-purchase checks. Jewelers and customers rely on millimetre→carat trade tables to decide whether a stone visually matches a specification and to roughly validate expected weight before lab certificates or precision scales are available. Remember — the table gives an estimate only. Exact weight is always measured on a calibrated scale or confirmed by a lab report.

Round Trade Table (mm → carat)

Below is the Round table used in the Round 1 pcs Calculator. It’s the baseline for quick lookups and linear interpolation for in-between sizes.

Diameter (mm) Approx Carat (ct)
0.70 0.0025
0.80 0.0030
0.90 0.0040
1.00 0.0050
1.10 0.0067
1.20 0.0070
1.30 0.0100
1.40 0.0120
1.50 0.0150
1.60 0.0160
1.70 0.0190
1.80 0.0250
1.90 0.0260
2.00 0.0320
2.10 0.0410
2.20 0.0450
2.30 0.0500
2.40 0.0580
2.50 0.0630
2.60 0.0700
2.70 0.0750
2.80 0.0890
2.90 0.0980
3.00 0.1050
3.10 0.1140
3.20 0.1270
3.30 0.1400
3.40 0.1550
3.50 0.1700

How the Calculator uses this table

Our Round 1 pcs Calculator follows this logic:

  1. Exact match: If you enter a diameter that exists in the table, the calculator returns the table carat directly.
  2. Interpolation: For diameters between table rows, it performs a linear interpolation between the two nearest table rows (simple, robust for small steps).
  3. Fallback formula: If outside table bounds, the calculator falls back to a geometric estimate using a length×width×depth formula adapted for round stones (trade-standard approximation).

Tip: The calculator also accepts depth % and fancy shape L×W input — the table is used mainly for standard round brilliants where merchant trade tables are accurate and convenient.

Material Comparison: Natural / Lab / Moissanite / Simulant

Carat is mass. The same volume of different materials produces different grams (and therefore different carats) because density changes. Our calculator computes a diamond-baseline carat (based on the table or formula) and then scales this by material density to show equivalent carat for:

  • Natural diamond — density ≈ 3.51 g/cm³ (baseline)
  • Lab-grown diamond — density ≈ 3.51 g/cm³ (same as natural for carat comparison)
  • Moissanite — density ≈ 3.22 g/cm³ (slightly lighter for same volume)
  • Simulant (CZ) — density ≈ 5.65 g/cm³ (heavier for the same volume)

Example: if a 3.00 mm round maps to 0.1050 ct for diamond base, moissanite would be about 0.1050 × (3.22 / 3.51) ≈ 0.096 ct, while CZ would be 0.1050 × (5.65 / 3.51) ≈ 0.169 ct.

Worked example

Scenario: You enter Diameter = 2.00 mm and Depth = 61% into the Round 1 pcs Calculator.

  1. Table lookup: diameter 2.00 mm → base carat = 0.0320 ct (from table).
  2. Material scaling:
    • Natural/Lab diamond → 0.0320 ct (density ratio 1.00).
    • Moissanite → 0.0320 × (3.22/3.51) = 0.0293 ct.
    • CZ → 0.0320 × (5.65/3.51) = 0.0515 ct.
  3. Calculator shows the comparison table so you can clearly see how identical size yields different carat readings by material.

Practical Tips & Best Practices

  • Use the table for quick checks — it’s the fastest and matches trade practice for small rounds.
  • Prefer measured carat for valuation — use a calibrated scale or lab report for any sale, purchase, or insurance valuation.
  • Depth matters: if you have unusual depth % the table estimate can diverge — enter depth into the calculator for a better estimate.
  • Material label: always record whether the stone is natural, lab, moissanite or simulant — mass and value differ widely.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is the table exact for every round diamond?

A: No — the table is a practical trade reference and an approximation. Cut style and exact pavilion depth change volume slightly. Use it for quick estimation; rely on lab measurements for exact mass.

Q: Why is CZ heavier than diamond for the same size?

A: Cubic zirconia has a higher density (≈5.65 g/cm³) than diamond (≈3.51 g/cm³). So the same physical volume has more mass — and therefore higher carat — for CZ.

Q: Can I trust the interpolated values?

A: Linear interpolation between nearby table rows gives a good approximation for small mm steps. Most trade tools (and our calculator) use an identical approach for speed and simplicity.

Key Takeaway

The Round trade table is your quick reference to estimate carat from millimetres. For accurate mass use laboratory scales and reports. Use the calculator to compare how the same size behaves across Natural, Lab, Moissanite and Simulant materials — it instantly shows how density affects expected carat.

Published by FancyDiamondJewels • Updated:

Diamond Weight Education — Chapter 2

Material Weight Comparison — Diamond vs Lab vs Moissanite vs CZ (Simulant)

Same size, different carat weight — this chapter explains why. Density values, exact weight ratios, sample calculations, and the comparison method used in the Diamond Size Calculator.

Why Material Matters in Weight Calculation

Two stones with the exact same millimetre size can have different carat weights depending on the material. Carat is mass — not size. This is why the Diamond Calculator shows different results for Natural Diamond, Lab-Grown Diamond, Moissanite and Simulant (CZ).

Note: 1.00 ct = 0.200 grams. Density determines how heavy the stone is for the same volume.

Understanding Density — The Core of Weight Difference

Density measures how tightly packed atoms are inside a gemstone. Higher density → more grams → more carats (for the same volume).

Formula (concept):
finalCarat = baseCarat × (materialDensity ÷ diamondDensity)

Density Table (Key Materials)

Material Density (g/cm³) Weight vs Diamond Notes
Natural Diamond 3.51 1.00× Baseline reference
Lab-Grown Diamond 3.51 1.00× Same density as natural
Moissanite 3.22 ≈0.92× Slightly lighter
Simulant (CZ) 5.65 ≈1.61× Heaviest common simulant

Carat Formula Used in the Calculator

The calculator works in two steps:

  1. Compute Diamond-base Carat — from the round mm→carat table or shape volume formula for fancy stones.
  2. Scale by Material DensityfinalCarat = baseCarat × (materialDensity / 3.51)
Tip: This method provides scientifically consistent comparisons across materials.

Master Comparison Ratios

Material Weight Ratio vs Diamond Meaning
Natural / Lab Diamond 1.00× Reference baseline
Moissanite ≈0.917× ~8.3% lighter for same size
Simulant (CZ) ≈1.61× ~61% heavier for same size

Worked Examples

Example 1 — 3.00 mm Round

  • Base (Diamond) = 0.105 ct
  • Moissanite = 0.105 × (3.22/3.51) ≈ 0.096 ct
  • CZ = 0.105 × (5.65/3.51) ≈ 0.169 ct

Example 2 — 2.00 mm Round

  • Base Diamond = 0.032 ct
  • Moissanite ≈ 0.029 ct
  • CZ ≈ 0.051 ct

Example 3 — Fancy Shape (5×3 mm, depth 60%)

The calculator estimates volume from L×W×Depth, converts to a diamond-base carat, then applies density scaling:

  • Diamond ≈ 0.19 ct
  • Moissanite ≈ 0.175 ct
  • CZ ≈ 0.305 ct

Why Materials Look Different Even at Same Size

Optical properties (brilliance, dispersion) and density differ across materials. Moissanite tends to appear more brilliant and often appears larger "face-up" at the same mm size. CZ is heavier but visually softer; lab diamonds match natural diamonds in both weight and appearance.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Why does Moissanite look bigger but weigh less?

Because its density is lower than diamond; same volume produces lower mass.

Q: Is CZ heavier than diamond?

Yes — CZ density (≈5.65 g/cm³) is significantly higher than diamond (≈3.51 g/cm³), so it weighs more for the same physical size.

Q: Will the calculator show all type comparisons?

Yes — the Diamond Size Calculator displays estimated weights for selected and all materials using the density scaling method described above.

Key Takeaway

Material density controls carat weight. Natural & Lab Diamonds weigh the same. Moissanite is slightly lighter; CZ is significantly heavier. Use the Diamond Size Calculator to get exact comparisons for any mm size.

Published by FancyDiamondJewels • Updated:
Diamond Weight Education — Chapter 3

Fancy Shape Carat Guide — Oval, Pear, Emerald, Marquise, Cushion & More

Every fancy shape has a different face-up size, depth requirement and carat distribution. This chapter explains how mm size converts to estimated carat for all major shapes used in our Diamond Size Calculator.

How Fancy Shape Carat Estimation Works

Fancy shapes (Oval, Pear, Emerald, Cushion, Marquise, Princess, Radiant, etc.) do not follow the same volume pattern as Round diamonds. Each has unique geometry that affects weight.

The Diamond Calculator uses:

  • L × W × Depth (mm) to estimate volume
  • a shape factor to adjust accuracy
  • material density (Diamond, Moissanite, CZ)
Formula Concept:
Estimated Carat = L × W × Depth × Shape-Factor × Density-Scale

Length–Width Ratio (L/W Ratio)

L/W ratio defines how “stretched” or “square” a shape appears. It also impacts carat weight.

Ideal L/W Ratios:
• Oval: 1.35–1.45
• Pear: 1.45–1.55
• Marquise: 1.9–2.2
• Emerald: 1.35–1.50
• Cushion: 1.00–1.05 (square) or 1.15–1.25 (rectangular)

Depth % Impact on Carat Weight

Depth has the highest influence on carat estimation for fancy shapes.

  • Shallow stones → lower weight but face-up larger
  • Deep stones → heavier but face-up smaller

Typical depth ranges:

  • Oval: 58–64%
  • Pear: 58–65%
  • Emerald: 62–70%
  • Cushion: 64–70%
  • Marquise: 58–62%
  • Princess: 68–75%

Shape Correction Factors (Used in Calculator)

Each shape needs a correction factor to match actual trade carat charts.

Shape Correction Factor Meaning
Oval 0.0080 Medium volume
Pear 0.0075 Lower top volume
Marquise 0.0082 Long pointed tips
Emerald 0.0085 Step-cut, deep pavilion
Princess 0.0090 High volume structure
Cushion 0.0086 Soft square, deep cut

Reference Size Table (Example Fancy Shapes)

Below: estimated carat (Diamond density) for popular fancy-shape sizes at 62% depth.

Shape Size (mm) Est. Carat
Oval 7×5 mm ≈ 0.90 ct
Pear 8×5 mm ≈ 0.85 ct
Emerald 7×5 mm ≈ 1.00 ct
Princess 5×5 mm ≈ 0.75 ct
Cushion 6×5 mm ≈ 0.95 ct
Marquise 10×5 mm ≈ 1.00 ct

Real Examples (mm → Carat)

Example 1 — Oval 8×6 mm

  • L/W Ratio = 1.33
  • Depth = 62%
  • Estimated Carat ≈ 1.30 ct

Example 2 — Emerald 8×6 mm

  • Rectangular step-cut produces higher volume
  • Estimated Carat ≈ 1.40 ct

Example 3 — Pear 9×6 mm

  • More tapered volume
  • Estimated Carat ≈ 1.10 ct

Shape-by-Shape Notes

Oval

Largest face-up look per carat among major shapes.

Pear

Top half contributes less to weight → lighter than Oval for same mm.

Marquise

Long shape but moderate depth → weight sits in the mid-body.

Emerald

Deep pavilion structure → heavier per mm than oval/pear.

Princess

Highest volume among fancy shapes → heavier than it looks.

Cushion

Deep cut + curved sides → weight comparable to emerald.

FAQ

Q: Do two stones with same mm always have same carat?

No — depth and shape change total volume significantly.

Q: Why does Oval look bigger than Cushion?

Oval has larger surface area; Cushion carries more weight in depth.

Q: Is Princess always heavier?

Yes — its geometry packs more volume per mm.

Key Takeaway

Fancy shapes do not follow round-diamond rules. Each shape has its own depth profile, volume, and weight behavior. Use the Diamond Size Calculator to get accurate estimations for all shapes and materials.

Published by FancyDiamondJewels • Updated:
Diamond Weight Education — Chapter 4

Diamond Cut Science — Depth, Table, Angles, Spread & Weight Retention Explained

Cut is the most important “C” in diamonds. It controls light return, brilliance, sparkle, size appearance, and weight. This chapter explains the science of diamond cut, how proportions affect beauty and carat weight, and why two stones with the same carat can look completely different.

What “Cut” Really Means

Cut is not just the shape (round, oval, princess). Cut refers to how well a diamond is crafted to reflect and return light. It is the only “C” controlled by humans. Even a flawless (IF) or colorless (D) diamond will look dull if cut poorly.

Cut determines three optical effects:

  • Brightness — white light return.
  • Fire — dispersion of colors.
  • Scintillation — sparkle flashes during movement.

Main Cut Proportions

The major proportions that define cut are:

  • Depth %
  • Table %
  • Crown angle & height
  • Pavilion angle & depth
  • Girdle thickness
  • Culet size
  • Symmetry & polish
Ideal Proportions for Round:
Depth: 61–62.5%
Table: 54–57%
Crown Angle: 34–35°
Pavilion Angle: 40.6–41.0°

Depth % — The Most Important Cut Factor

Depth is the height of the diamond from table to culet. It strongly influences brilliance and weight.

Depth Formula:
Depth % = (Total Depth in mm ÷ Average Diameter) × 100

How depth affects the diamond:

  • Too shallow → leaks light (fisheye effect)
  • Too deep → traps light (nail-head effect)
  • Ideal depth → maximum brilliance

Table % — The Window Into the Diamond

The table is the flat top facet. Its size controls how much light enters and exits.

Effects of table size:

  • Small table (<53%) → more fire, less brightness
  • Large table (>60%) → more brightness, less fire
  • Ideal table (54–57%) → perfect balance

Crown & Pavilion Angles

Angles determine how light bounces inside the diamond.

Ideal optical performance occurs when:
Crown angle ≈ 34–35°
Pavilion angle ≈ 40.6–41.0°

Spread — Why Some Diamonds Look Bigger

Spread is the face-up size (mm diameter) compared to the diamond’s carat weight.

A diamond with good spread looks visually larger.

Cut Type 1.00 ct Diameter Appearance
Shallow 6.6 – 6.7 mm Looks bigger
Ideal 6.3 – 6.4 mm Perfect balance
Deep 6.1 – 6.2 mm Looks smaller

Weight Retention — Why Cutters Make Diamonds Deep

Cutters aim to retain as much rough weight as possible to increase value. This often leads to deeper diamonds that face up smaller.

  • Deep cut = more carat weight → higher price
  • Shallow cut = more spread but lower weight
  • Ideal cut = perfect balance
Fact: A poorly cut 1.00 ct diamond can look like a 0.85 ct ideal cut.

Shallow vs Deep Cuts (Visual + Weight Impact)

Type Impact
Shallow Bigger size, less fire, light leakage
Ideal Perfect brilliance, ideal size
Deep Smaller face-up, heavier, darker center

GIA / IGI Cut Grades (Explained)

  • Excellent — top brilliance, ideal proportions
  • Very Good — slight deviations, still beautiful
  • Good — noticeable leakage or weight bias
  • Fair / Poor — low brilliance, deep or shallow

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Does cut affect carat weight?

Yes — deep stones weigh more; shallow stones weigh less.

Q: Can two 1-carat diamonds look different in size?

Yes — spread differences can be as large as 0.5 mm or more.

Q: Should I always choose Ideal Cut?

For round diamonds: yes, if budget allows. For fancy shapes, proportions matter more than cut grade.

Key Takeaway

Diamond cut is the most important factor for beauty. Cut determines brilliance, fire, sparkle, spread, and even apparent size. Always prioritize cut quality, as no amount of color or clarity can compensate for poor cut.

Published by FancyDiamondJewels • Updated:
Diamond Education — Chapter 5

Diamond Color Science — The Complete D–Z Guide, Fluorescence, Face-Up Color & Shape Influence

Diamond color is one of the most misunderstood aspects of grading. This chapter explains the entire D–Z scale, how color appears face-up, how shapes affect visible color, the effect of fluorescence, and how to choose the best balance between beauty and budget.

What Diamond Color Really Means

Diamond “color” refers to the presence of yellow or brown tint in a stone. The grading scale starts from D (completely colorless) and gradually increases in tint down to Z (light yellow/light brown).

Colorless diamonds reflect the most light and appear icy white, while diamonds lower on the scale appear warmer.

Important: Diamond color grading is always done from the side, not face-up.

The D–Z Color Scale (Explained)

Below is the complete GIA/IGI scale. Each grade represents a subtle shift in body color.

Grade Category Description
D Colorless Absolutely colorless
E–F Colorless Trace color visible only to experts
G–H Near Colorless Warmth barely visible
I–J Near Colorless Slight tint visible
K–M Faint Noticeable tint
N–R Very Light Light yellow/brown
S–Z Light Obvious color

Face-Up Color vs Side Color

Diamonds are graded from the side, but worn face-up. These two views do not always match.

Face-up color is influenced by:

  • Cut quality (better cut → whiter appearance)
  • Shape (some hide color better)
  • Light environment
  • Fluorescence
Professional Tip: An H-color excellent cut round can look whiter than a G-color fair cut.

How Different Shapes Show Color

Different shapes show or hide color due to their geometry and facet pattern.

Shape Color Visibility Notes
Round Least Best at hiding tint
Oval Medium Bow-tie can increase warmth
Pear Medium Color concentrated at tip
Marquise High Ends show color strongly
Emerald High Large windows show tint
Cushion High Deep pavilions trap warmth

Fluorescence — Blue Glow Under UV Light

Fluorescence is the diamond’s reaction to ultraviolet (UV) light. About 30% of diamonds show some fluorescence.

How fluorescence affects appearance:

  • None / Faint → no effect
  • Medium Blue → can make H–J color diamonds look whiter
  • Strong Blue → highly beneficial for warm colors
  • Very Strong → rare cases may look hazy
Pro Expert Tip: For J–K–L color, “Strong Blue Fluorescence” is the best value-for-money upgrade in diamonds.

How Metal Choice Affects Diamond Color

The ring’s metal can make your diamond appear warmer or whiter.

Effect by metal:

  • White Gold / Platinum → makes diamonds look whiter
  • Rose Gold → enhances warm tones (great for I–M)
  • Yellow Gold → blends tint, making K–M look intentional

Quick Reference Color Chart

Color Grade Best Setting Recommended Cut
D–F Platinum / White Gold Excellent
G–H White Gold Excellent / Very Good
I–J White or Rose Gold Excellent
K–M Yellow / Rose Gold Very Good

Color Recommendations (Budget vs Beauty)

Best balance for Round diamonds:

G–H (near colorless, looks white, excellent value)

Best for Ovals / Pears / Marquise:

F–H (because elongated shapes show more color)

Best for Emerald & Cushion:

E–G (step-cuts reveal color easily)

Best budget pick:

I–J in excellent cut rounds; appears white face-up.

FAQ

Q: Does higher color always look better?

No — cut quality is more important for face-up beauty.

Q: Do lab diamonds have the same color scale?

Yes — IGI/GIA grade lab diamonds using the same D–Z system.

Q: Does fluorescence lower the price?

Usually yes — but it can be a benefit for I–M colors.

Key Takeaway

Diamond color affects price, brilliance, metal choice, and the overall look. The best balance for most buyers is the Near-Colorless range (G–H). Cut quality and diamond shape strongly influence how color appears face-up, making color selection a strategic part of choosing the perfect diamond.

Published by FancyDiamondJewels • Updated:
Diamond Education — Chapter 6

Diamond Clarity Science — Inclusions, Eye-Clean Diamonds, Clarity Grades & How to Choose the Best Clarity

Diamond clarity measures how free a gemstone is from internal and external imperfections. This chapter explains every clarity grade, the types of inclusions, the science behind eye-clean diamonds, and professional buying tips for each shape and budget.

What Diamond Clarity Really Means

Clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions and external blemishes inside a diamond. These natural characteristics form during crystal growth and make every diamond unique.

Clarity is graded under 10× magnification based on:

  • Number of inclusions
  • Size
  • Location
  • Color/visibility
  • Type (feathers, clouds, crystals, etc.)
Fact: Most inclusions are microscopic and invisible to the naked eye.

The Complete Clarity Scale (FL → I3)

Grade Category Description
FL Flawless No inclusions or blemishes under 10×
IF Internally Flawless No internal inclusions; tiny surface marks
VVS1–VVS2 Very Very Slight Extremely tiny inclusions, hard to see even for graders
VS1–VS2 Very Slight Small inclusions, minor visibility under 10×
SI1–SI2 Slightly Included Visible under 10×; SI1 often eye-clean
I1–I3 Included Obvious inclusions; may affect durability

Types of Inclusions

Different inclusions have different levels of visibility and impact.

  • Feathers – White fractures; safe if small
  • Clouds – Group of tiny crystals, can affect brilliance
  • Pinpoints – Tiny dots; harmless
  • Crystals – Mineral crystals inside the diamond
  • Needles – Thin crystals; usually invisible
  • Cavities – Small pits; more visible
  • Indented Naturals – Natural surface from rough

Eye-Clean Diamonds (The Real-World Standard)

An “eye-clean” diamond shows no visible inclusions to the naked eye from ~20–30 cm distance.

Eye-clean levels by clarity grade:

  • FL–VS2 → always eye-clean
  • SI1 → usually eye-clean
  • SI2 → sometimes eye-clean (depends on placement)
  • I1–I3 → rarely eye-clean
Tip: Inclusions near the edges (“prong-friendly” inclusions) can be hidden in the setting.

How Shape Influences Clarity Visibility

Some shapes hide inclusions well, while others highlight them.

Shape Clarity Visibility Notes
Round Lowest Sparkle hides inclusions
Oval / Pear / Marquise Medium Bow-tie area can show inclusions
Princess Medium-High Sharp corners reveal imperfections
Emerald Very High Step-cut is very transparent
Cushion Medium-High Large facets reveal inclusions

Clarity Recommendations by Shape & Budget

Best overall (value + beauty):

VS2 or SI1 — typically eye-clean and budget-friendly.

Round Diamond:

SI1 is usually eye-clean — best value.

Oval / Pear / Marquise:

VS2 (because inclusions show along the bow-tie).

Emerald / Asscher:

VS1 or higher — step-cuts are transparent, showing everything.

Budget pick:

SI1–SI2 (if inclusion sits on the edges).

Clarity Reference Chart

Clarity Grade Eye-Clean? Best For
FL–IF Yes Collectors
VVS1–VVS2 Yes High-end buyers
VS1–VS2 Yes Everyday ideal choice
SI1 Usually Best value for Round
SI2 Sometimes Budget shoppers
I1–I3 Rarely Avoid unless inspected closely

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Which clarity is the best value?

SI1 (for rounds) and VS2 (for fancy shapes).

Q: Is clarity more important than color?

Usually no — cut and color affect appearance more than clarity.

Q: Are SI diamonds good quality?

Yes — if inclusions are small and near edges, they are excellent buys.

Key Takeaway

Clarity is important, but not all inclusions affect the diamond’s beauty equally. Focus on choosing an eye-clean diamond, not the highest clarity grade. For most buyers, VS2 or SI1 provides the perfect balance of price and appearance.

Published by FancyDiamondJewels • Updated:
Diamond Education — Chapter 7

Diamond Shape Library — Visual Guide & Practical Notes (SVG silhouettes)

All popular shapes plus special cuts — silhouettes, ideal proportions, how they show color & clarity, and recommended uses. Shapes displayed in rows of five for easy comparison.

How to use this page: Click a shape name (or read its notes) to learn ideal L/W ratios, depth behaviour, and what to check in the certificate or in-hand inspection.

Round Brilliant

L/W: 1.00 • Best for hide color • Ideal cut strongest brilliance

Princess

L/W: 1.00 (square) • High volume • Corners show clarity

Oval

L/W: 1.35–1.45 • Face-up looks large • Bow-tie watch for clarity

Pear

L/W: 1.45–1.55 • Tapered tip shows color • Check for inclusions near tip

Marquise

L/W: 1.9–2.2 • Elongated look • Ends show color & inclusions

Emerald

L/W: 1.35–1.50 • Step-cut, shows clarity & color easily

Asscher

L/W: 1.00–1.05 • Square step-cut • clarity-critical

Radiant

L/W: 1.00–1.20 • Brilliant step hybrid • good sparkle

Cushion

L/W: 1.00–1.25 • Deep girdle, classic vintage look

Heart

L/W: 1.00–1.05 • Symbolic, needs excellent symmetry

Baguette

L/W: 2.0–4.0 • Step facets, accent stone for settings

Trilliant / Trapezoid

Triangle or trapezoid • dramatic sparkle • clarity matters

Kite

Novel shape • great for bespoke settings • check symmetry

Hexagon

Geometric, modern • symmetry & polish critical

Half Moon

Accent stone shape • used in cluster & halo settings

Shield

Stylish, bold • heavy look, great for men's jewelry

Pentagon

Architectural feel • modern custom pieces

Trapezoid

Classic side-stone • pairs with emerald & radiant center stones

Modified Shield

Unique custom cuts • ask for proportions & symmetry

Other / Custom

Kite, Octagon, Raised cuts — contact us for options

Detailed Notes — What to check for each shape

  1. Round: Prioritize cut grade (Excellent/Very Good). Color and clarity can be slightly lower if cut is top-notch.
  2. Princess: Inspect corners for chips; clarity around corners matters. Good for modern settings.
  3. Oval: Watch for bow-tie; choose L/W ratio per finger length (longer looks elegant).
  4. Pear: Check symmetry and the sharpened tip; tip-protection in setting is recommended.
  5. Marquise: Ensure even length and no “fish-eye” in the center; check color at ends.
  6. Emerald / Asscher: Step cuts show clarity & color — choose higher clarity and color grades.
  7. Cushion: Many variants — pillow-like or rectangular; deep pavilion is common so verify spread vs weight.
  8. Heart: Symmetry is everything — the cleft should be crisp and the lobes balanced.
  9. Baguette / Trapezoid: Used for accents — match length & angle to the center stone for harmony.
  10. Special Shapes (Kite, Hexagon, Half Moon): Usually custom — ask for exact proportions, especially for settings with halos or bezels.
Quick buying checklist:
1) Know the L/W ratio you want.
2) Confirm symmetry & polish.
3) Check where inclusions sit relative to prongs or facets.
4) For elongated shapes, inspect for bow-tie and color concentration.
5) Ask for face-up photos at 1:1 and a 360° video if possible.

SEO & UX Tip

You can anchor these shapes into your product pages so customers can jump directly from a product listing to a shape explanation — use anchor links like /pages/shape-library#oval.

Published by FancyDiamondJewels • Updated: