While it’s true that diamonds are a girl’s best friend, what the different shapes say about the wearer can mean many other things. While most people are aware that there are several shapes of the famous stone, not many understand what those shapes represent.
Another thing that clouds the issue is that many jewelers use the wrong terminology to discuss different aspects of the jewel. They often say “cut” about the shape (round, heart, princess, etc.) when in fact, cut refers to the quality of the actual cut of diamonds, not the shape.
Read on to learn more about the history and symbolism behind each of the ten shapes:
1. The Round Shape
This shape of diamond is the most popular in the U.S. and is considered the classic, traditional choice. This style has been around since the 1700s and has evolved. More than 70% of all diamonds sold today are round. It fits nicely into nearly any setting, and current trends include sprinkling colored gemstones around it or a halo of round pave.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Empathetic
- Dependable
- Honest
- Faithful
- Trustworthy
Famous Entertainers such as Madonna, Mary J. Blige, and Barbara Streisand have worn this shape.
2. The Oval Shape
Oval diamonds have a long history with their long shape, dating way back to 1304. In the 1960s, the brilliant oval cut became very popular, cementing its place in modern wedding jewelry. The length gives the illusion that the finger is longer and the stone is larger. You also can set it on the narrow or wide side, depending on what the wearer prefers.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Elegant
- Stable
- Disciplined
- Risk-Taker
- Embraces individuality
Toni Braxton, Kate Middleton, and Katie Holmes have worn these diamonds.
3. The Princess Shape
The Princess shape is a very trendy stone for engagement rings these days. It was created in the 1980s by Israel Itzkowitz and Betzalel Ambar. Its refined, square look creates the appearance of a larger diamond.
It is an exquisite stone in every sense and looks great in almost any setting. It should always be set where the prongs protect the four corners. This helps to prevent chipping.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Sensible
- Efficient leader
- Organized
- Bold and fun-loving
Leading ladies who have displayed these rings include Christine Baumgartner and Jessica Biel.
4. The Marquise Shape
The Marquise shape is named after the mistress of Louis XV of France, the Marquise de Pompadour. These diamonds resemble the shape of a football. And like the oval shape, its narrow, long body also creates the appearance of a larger stone.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Stylish
- A flair for the dramatic
- Daring
- Innovative
- Full of zest
Catherine Zeta-Jones and Victoria Beckham are among the celebrities who have enjoyed this shape.
5. The Pear Shape
The pear shape is a combination of a round and marquise shape. These diamonds date back to the 1400s. These cuts call for precise symmetry. This stone has a tapered point on one end, the teardrop or pear cut from which its name is derived.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Has exquisite tastes
- Adventurous
- Romantic
- Passionate
In their engagement rings, famous actresses such as Anne Hathaway and Catherine Heigl have sported this style.
6. The Emerald Shape
The emerald shape is cut like an octagon to give it the appearance of its namesake stone. As it turns out, this sparkly shape works well for diamonds too. It does, however, require a high-quality stone due to the mirror-like look of the gem when completed.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Charming
- Classy
- Attention-seeking
- Confident
- Straightforward
This shape has found its way to the rings of stars like Kate Hudson, Beyonce, and Grace Kelly.
7. The Asscher Shape
The Asscher shape is a cross between the emerald and princess cut. It became popular shortly after the turn of the 21st century. It’s a square shape, first developed in 1902 by Joseph Asscher. Over the years, there have been some modifications to enhance its brilliance.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Feminine
- Special
- Meticulous
- Authoritative
Gwyneth Paltrow, Jessica Alba, Zooey Deschanel, and Reese Witherspoon are many Hollywood stars who share this style.
8. The Radiant Shape
The radiant shape is another relatively new shape in the way of engagement rings. Its popularity grew during the 1980s. It is similar to the princess diamond, but instead with round corners.
It is a vibrant, lively stone with a facet pattern cut on the pavilion and crown. The cut requires a diamond with a lot of mass. They are also found in other types of jewelry, including earrings and pendants.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Trendsetter
- Flirty
- Even-Tempered
- Sentimental
- Highly adaptable
Jennifer Lopez is the most celebrity that has displayed this type of ring.
9. The Cushion Shape
Also referred to as a pillow cut or old mine cut, the cushion shape was the most popular diamond until the early 20th century. Designed in the mid-1770s, this stone was created to keep much of its mass, making it more significant than others.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Likes individuality
- Kind
- Traditional
- Family orientated
Women who receive this type of ring will be in the company of Jennifer Garner, Brooke Shields, and Giuliana Rancic.
10. The Heart Shape
For people who want diamonds with a lot of symbolism, the heart shape is the stone to purchase. It is a very challenging cut to make, and the effort is rewarded with a classy, elegant, brilliant gem. It takes incredible attention to detail and a very experienced diamond cutter to ensure it is perfectly symmetrical.
Symbolic Personality Traits:
- Emotional
- Thoughtful
- Feminine
- Affectionate
- Sensitive
Joan Collins and Andrea Hissomare among the most famous wearers of this shape and design.
There Are More to Diamonds than Just Their Shape
Always remember the 4 Cs; cut, color, clarity, and carat. Knowing what to look for and how to judge a diamond can help make sure that you pick the right one. And knowing the symbolism behind each shape will let you choose the one that best fits the personality of the one you love.
