Unique Diamond Engagement Rings

There are many fancy shapes to choose from for example Princess, Radiant, Emerald, Asscher, Cushion, Oval, Marquise, Pear, Heart, and Trilliant.

It is also possible to have side diamonds cut in unusual shapes such at Trapezoid and half moon and believe it or not, you can even have a diamond cut into the shape of a horse if that is what you really want. In saying that, traditional diamond shapes are cut to make the best of varying pieces of rough crystal to create striking diamond shapes and maximize the reflection of light. The number of facets and exact angles of each diamond shape have been worked with and experimented with for decades to produce the very best cuts of the stunning array of Fancy Shaped Diamonds we have available today.

Here is a short summary of just some of the Fancy shaped diamonds available:

• Oval Cut diamonds

Oval shaped diamonds have been around for over 200 years, however the modern oval cut diamond that we know today was created by Lazare Kaplan in the 1960’s. An elongated modified brilliant cut, the oval cut can be either narrow or wide in appearance and personal preference and ring design dictates if a rounder or slimmer look is ideal. With similar sparkle and fire to the classic brilliant cut diamond, the Oval cut is ideal for those who want to have something a little different to the classic round shape without compromising on the diamonds brilliance.

• Trilliant Cut Diamonds

Triangular in shape and with straight or curved edges, the Trilliant cut diamond can vary widely in appearance. Introduced by the Asscher brothers in Amsterdam and trademarked by Henry Meyer in 1962, the trilliant cut now refers to all triangular shaped diamonds. Trilliants are sometimes called Trillions, and typically look larger when viewed from the top. Used as side diamonds to accentuate a centre stone and also quite striking as a solitaire, the Trilliant cut truly is a unique and eye-catching diamond cut.

• Asscher Cut Diamonds

Similar to the Emerald cut but more square in appearance, the assher cut like the Emerald is a step cut diamond with cropped corners, and when cut properly and viewed from the top, will show concentric octagonal shapes as you look into the diamond. The Asscher cut differs from an Emerald cut as it usually has a smaller table and larger step facets. Developed in 1902 by Joseph Asscher, the Asscher cut diamond became popular in the Art Deco Movement and remains a timeless diamond cut today.

• Marquise Cut Diamonds

Marquise cut diamonds are long and narrow, and often create the illusion of longer fingers when worn and also give the illusion of a larger diamond size. As with any longer shaped diamond, the appearance of the bow tie is important so be sure to view the diamond before purchasing to ensure the diamond is “the one”and does not have the dark shadowing through the stone. Created originally as a gift from King Louis XIV of France for the Marquise of Pompidour, he had a diamond fashioned to resemble her perfectly formed mouth. This is a Diamond shape with history behind it and a great choice for those who want something a little different.

• Heart Shape Diamonds

The universal symbol of love, diamonds cut into a heart shape are a unique and romantic choice. Cut as a modified Brilliant cut, it is important to view the heart shape diamond in person to ensure the shape is the desired proportion and the symmetry of the two halves is perfect. The Heart shape ranges from a slimmer, narrow look to more wide in appearance. Heart shaped diamonds are popular in Engagement rings and pendants.

• Radiant Cut Diamonds

A relatively new diamond cut, invented in 1977 by Henry Grossbard, the radiant cut was created for those who love the square or rectangular shape of the Emerald or Assher but want all the sparkle of a brilliant. This is achieved by applying a full brilliant cut pattern to both the pavilion and crown of the diamond, creating intense sparkle.

Personal preference dictates whether to choose a more square or rectangular shaped radiant, but either way this is a diamond that exhibits the stylish look of a rectangular shape without compromising on brilliance.

Please also see our separate pages on Emerald Cut, Princess Cut, Pear Shape and Cushion Cut Diamonds.

Make an appointment to come in to talk to one of our diamond graders, Gemmologists or jewellery designers to help you decide which Fancy Shape diamond suits you.