Diamonds come in all shapes and sizes.
Natural diamonds start about 100 miles below the surface of the earth. Each natural diamond is made from carbon that has been compressed by the Earth's pressure over time. The natural stones you see in diamond jewelry today began forming centuries ago, and are very possibly the oldest thing you will touch in your lifetime.
Diamonds are classified by the Four C's: carat, clarity, color, and cut. Carat is the unit of size. Clarity is determined by viewing the diamond under a microscope and seeing its imperfections. Color refers to the natural color. The closer a diamond is to colorless, the more valuable it is. The cut is a little more complicated. The facets and symmetry as they relate to its overall sparkle. The cut refers to not just the shape, but of the proportion, symmetry, and polish created by the diamond cutter. The better the cut, the more light moves through the stone, reflecting and refracting the light.
Diamond Shapes:
The standard cushion cut diamond is most similar to the old mine cut and brings an antique feel with a romantic and classic shape. It displays broader, chunky facets with a smaller table and sometimes more rounded sides. The standard cushion cut is very rare and represents less than 1% of all cushion diamond supply.
Emerald cut diamonds have long, rectangular facets, and make a sophisticated statement in any piece of jewelry.
A round cut is a popular cut due to its brilliance and timeless elegance.
Three stone diamond rings have increased in popularity. The large center stone is highlighted by 2 smaller stones on the side.
A halo diamond ring is a setting that has a center diamond in a collection of round pavé or micro-pavé diamonds.
Oval diamonds have a long, elegant shape. Because Ovals are cut in the same manner as round diamonds, they are one of the most brilliant and sparkly diamond shapes. Because the shape doesn't have sharp angles or corners, an oval diamond is less prone to chipping compared to other shapes.
A pear or teardrop diamond is a unique shape with a rounded bottom that tapers to a pointed top. They are quite elegant and looks like the perfect drop of water. Similar to a marquise shape, which is pointed on both ends with two tips and rounds at the widest section in the center.
A princess cut or square cut diamond is usually cut with 57 facets that provide exceptional sparkle. These are a great alternative to a round cut offering a lot of brilliance.
Side stones are any jewel that flanks the sides of a central gemstone. The center stone, typically a diamond is the largest of the stones The sides are often oval or marquise shaped.
A solitaire diamond is a single diamond ring. It is considered the classic engagement ring design.