A Journey Through the Many Faces of Diamonds
A Journey Through the Many Faces of Diamonds
When it comes to diamonds, everyone seems to have a favorite shape, though they might not always know it until they see it. I found this out the hard way when shopping for an engagement ring. I walked into the jeweler thinking the only decision was about carats. Oh, how naive I was! I was soon introduced to a glimmering world of shapes—each with its own personality and allure.
The round brilliant, arguably the most iconic, seemed too predictable for what was supposed to be a symbol of personal commitment. Yet, it’s popular for a reason. Comprising 58 facets, it’s designed to maximize sparkle. Let's face it, who doesn’t want a diamond that catches not just the eye but the heart with its dazzling display of light?
Then I discovered the princess cut, which is essentially the square cousin of the round brilliant. What it lacks in tradition, it makes up for in modern flair. An interesting tidbit: the princess cut is a relatively new player in the diamond arena, making its debut in the 1970s. It’s the kind of cut that fits well with anyone who dares to stray from the conventional path.
For those with a penchant for the regal and the romantic, the oval might be the perfect choice. Its elongated shape gives the illusion of a larger size than the round, without a proportional increase in price. In a way, choosing an oval can feel like an insider trade—a whispered secret among those in the know. And let’s not forget how versatile it looks on any hand. Whether set on a delicate band or surrounded by smaller stones, it somehow always looks like it belongs.
There’s also the emerald cut, which seems like something a movie starlet from the golden age of Hollywood would wear. Its step-like facets create a hall of mirrors effect that captures the eye with understated elegance. If you ask me, the emerald cut is for those who appreciate subtlety over sparkle, choosing clarity and lines over flamboyant brilliance. When I see an emerald-cut diamond, I can’t help but wonder about the stories the owner would tell—sophisticated, intriguing, never ordinary.
And then there’s my personal favorite, the marquise. Legend has it that this shape was commissioned by a French king who wanted a diamond to resemble the lips of his mistress. With its pointed ends and elongated form, it’s both bold and romantic. There’s an undeniable drama to this shape, something that beckons a second glance. It’s as if each marquise stone holds a secret—a tiny rebel contained within its elegant setting.
As I left the jeweler that day, overwhelmed yet enchanted, I realized choosing a diamond shape is not merely about fashion but about identity. It’s about finding the shape that reflects how you see yourself, or perhaps, how you wish to see yourself. Whether it’s tradition, modernity, elegance, or drama you’re after, there’s a diamond shape that whispers your name. Who would have thought a simple trip to the jeweler could turn into a lesson in self-discovery?
