Cushion cut
What is a Cushion Cut Diamond?
The Cushion Cut diamond has been around for quite some time now. In fact, it was the default choice of cut before the Round Brilliant cut came into existence. The cushion cut has borrowed some of the techniques used to create the brilliant cuts to make the diamond sparkle more. Thus modern cushion cuts sparkle much more than old or vintage cuts. This has also led to many variations of the cut which makes it a tricky procedure to pick a stone. You might also like the asscher shape or radiant cut diamonds we have.
Many people have modified the cut to try and get maximum sparkle by adding or removing facets, which adds even more variations to the already numerous cuts.
Cushion diamond shapes can be put into mainly two groups:
- Cushion brilliant cut with 58 facets, which has been cut similarly to the round brilliant diamond.
- And the Cushion modified brilliant cut. Facets have either been added or removed to try and optimise the sparkle.
Adding to the confusion is the fact that there is a ‘chunky’ and a ‘crushed ice’ look, referring to the look of the stone when viewed from above. When the diamond is set in a ring the difference is much harder to see but it is always good to stay informed.
Why buy a cushion cut?
Cushion cuts are cheaper when compared to a round cut. Being a ‘fancy’ cut and the fact that they aren’t too popular anymore which adds to their affordability.
They are practical. The rounded edges ensure that it won’t get snagged on clothing or anything alike. This also reduces the chances of knocking the ring against something hard and damaging the diamond.
Cushion cuts are elegant and have a vintage feel to them, adding a sense of sophistication to the wearer.
Another reason you might want to buy a cushion is because it is so versatile. If you cannot afford a round diamond, then consider a cushion cut. Its appearance is very similar to that of a round cut and with the right setting and amount of prongs, the illusion of a round diamond can easily be mimicked. The same goes for making it look more square.
What to look for when buying a cushion cut.
As we have already discussed, there are many different variations of this specific cut. When deciding to buy a cushion cut, the best way would be to examine the stones yourself. This is to ensure that you get a diamond that you are happy with. Because of the many variations there are also different degrees of round edges.
Some cuts are square and other are much closer to looking like a round cut. If you cannot view them in person, make sure that the retailer sends you high resolution pictures and videos of the stones you will be viewing.
FAQs about the Cushion cut.
Cushion cuts appear to be smaller when compared to a round cut of the same carat weight. This is because a lot of the carat weight is below the girdle and the cut is much deeper than that of a round cut.
The cushion cut also sparkles slightly less than a round cut, but it does sparkle brilliantly
Another difficulty with choosing a cushion cut is that they are all so different and buying purely according to specifications is not advisable. Each stone under consideration must be examined to see if it is the right diamond for you.
solitaire is always a good option to showcase the beauty of the diamond itself, without any distractions.
If you desire something more sparkly, then a pavé setting is just perfect. With smaller diamonds on the ring adding to its overall sparkle, it really comes to life.
A halo setting is also a good option. The halo setting make the diamond appear larger than it actually is. This is because of the increased surface area that sparkles. A halo setting is elegant and feminine, fit for any woman.
