When you wear a diamond, it's not just a fleeting moment; it's an eternal sparkle. Your engagement ring isn't merely for special occasions—it should seamlessly enrich every aspect of your daily life with joy. Durability is paramount in achieving this seamless integration. While diamonds already boast a perfect 10 on the Mohs hardness scale, their shape is equally crucial. Your chosen shape should align with your lifestyle and retain its exquisite allure over time. Whether you're at work, leisure, or reveling in life's pleasures, your diamond should remain a beacon of timeless elegance and strength. Come along with us as we explore the durability of all diamond shapes and their suitability for various preferences.
ROUND-CUT DIAMONDS
Round diamonds are undoubtedly the stars of the show, whether they're glistening as pavé stones or taking center stage in your engagement ring. Fun fact: a remarkable 70% of engagement rings worldwide feature round center stones—now that's what we call timeless appeal. But it's not just about their stunning looks; these gems are also incredibly practical. With no sharp edges to worry about and approximately 57-58 evenly distributed facets, they handle everyday wear with ease.
And here's the exciting part: round diamonds aren't limited to engagement rings. They're also the top choice for luxurious pieces like statement necklaces, elegant tennis bracelets, and exquisite solitaire earrings. It's not merely about making a style statement; it's about investing in enduring elegance that will stand the test of time.
OVAL-CUT DIAMONDS
Much like the round-cut diamond, an oval center stone in an engagement ring offers a fantastic alternative. With its smooth, edge-free silhouette, the oval diamond boasts not only timeless elegance but also remarkable durability. Despite having fewer facets than its round counterpart, the oval diamond often comes with a more affordable price tag while maintaining its strength and resilience.
Moreover, the elongated shape of the oval diamond creates the illusion of a larger size, adding to its allure. This makes it an excellent choice for those seeking both size and durability in their engagement ring. Depending on your chosen setting, you might even consider an east-west set oval diamond for an extra touch of durability and surprise.
MARQUISE-CUT DIAMONDS
The marquise diamond, steeped in history and elegance, evokes a sense of luxury and sophistication. Named after the Marquise of Pompadour and often compared to her iconic lips, this diamond shape is synonymous with opulence. Not only does it add a touch of grace to your hand, but it also creates the illusion of elongated fingers, making your hand appear more slender and elegant.
However, when opting for a marquise diamond, it's essential to consider your reasons beyond its beauty. Factors such as style, size, and color play crucial roles in choosing the perfect diamond for your ring. Unlike some other diamond shapes, durability isn't a strong suit for marquise diamonds. The two pointed ends of the marquise shape have sharp edges, leaving them vulnerable to chipping and damage, which can sometimes be irreversible.
With proper care and attention, though, you can still enjoy the timeless beauty of a marquise diamond. Remember to remove your ring before engaging in activities like gardening or carpentry to prevent accidental damage. Be mindful of knitwear that could snag on the diamond's edges, and consider setting the stone with prongs for added security.
Ultimately, while marquise diamonds require a little extra TLC, their undeniable allure and sophistication make them a worthy choice for those seeking a unique and elegant engagement ring.
EMERALD-CUT DIAMONDS
With a majestic and romantic allure reminiscent of old-world Hollywood charm, emerald-cut diamonds are celebrated as a 'fancy shape' in the world of gemstones. While they may not dazzle with the same brilliance as other cuts, such as the round or oval, their unique step cuts and graduated parallel lines create a mesmerizing effect akin to a staircase. What emerald cuts lack in sparkle, they more than make up for in glamour and sophistication. Their clipped edges not only add to their aesthetic appeal but also enhance their durability, making them less susceptible to chipping and damage compared to other shapes.
However, it's essential to note that the large, uncut spaces within the diamond can expose flaws and inclusions more prominently. Care must be taken to avoid chipping the surface or applying excessive pressure that could compromise the integrity of the diamond. Despite these considerations, emerald-cut diamonds remain a timeless choice for those seeking understated elegance and classic beauty in their engagement ring or fine jewelry piece.
The princess-cut diamond earns its name for a reason—it embodies the sparkle of a round-cut diamond while boasting sharp, regal aesthetics. Despite being more affordable than round diamonds, handling them with care is crucial, as the square edges can be prone to chipping and snagging with even the slightest impact.
Pears are truly one-of-a-kind—a rare gem among diamond cuts, known for their asymmetrical horizontal shape and unmatched aesthetic appeal. It's no wonder that icons like Liz Taylor and Victoria Beckham have been captivated by the allure of pear-shaped engagement rings.
Despite its exceptional durability, the cushion-cut diamond remains somewhat underrated in popularity. However, this unique cut deserves more recognition, especially considering its resilience. Take, for instance, the iconic Hope Diamond, one of the world's most renowned gems, featuring a cushion-cut with rounded corners that render it virtually chip-proof.
The diamond shape isn't just about looks; it's a key factor in the durability and style of your engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. When it comes to everyday wear, like engagement rings and wedding bands, the round brilliant cut shines as the most durable. Its balanced design minimizes the risk of damage, ensuring your symbol of love lasts a lifetime.
