The shape of a diamond is one of the most critical factors influencing its overall appearance, and when it comes to lab-made diamonds, the choices are vast. Whether you’re selecting a diamond for an engagement ring, pendant, or any other piece of jewelry, understanding the different shapes of lab-made diamonds is essential.
What are Lab-Made Diamonds?
Before diving into diamond shapes, let’s briefly discuss lab-made diamonds. These diamonds are cultivated in a laboratory setting using advanced technological processes. Despite being created in a lab, they possess the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds, making them virtually indistinguishable from the earth-mined counterparts.
The Importance of Diamond Shape
The shape of a diamond refers to its geometric form and outline when viewed from the top. The shape impacts not just the aesthetic but also the diamond’s brilliance, fire, and how well it reflects light. Selecting the right shape is essential as it determines the diamond’s visual appeal and suitability for specific jewelry settings.
Popular Diamond Shapes in Lab-Made Diamonds
Round Cut Diamond
The round cut is the most popular and timeless diamond shape. Known for its brilliance and fire, the round cut maximizes light return due to its 58 facets. When choosing a lab-made diamond, the round shape remains a favorite because of its classic appeal and versatility in various settings, from solitaire engagement rings to diamond earrings.
Princess Cut Diamond
For those looking for something modern yet elegant, the princess cut is an excellent choice. This square-shaped diamond with pointed corners boasts exceptional brilliance. The sharp geometry of the princess cut can create a bold statement, especially in lab-made diamonds, where precision in cutting is perfected.
Cushion Cut Diamond
The cushion cut is a softer alternative to the princess cut, featuring rounded corners and a pillow-like shape. This vintage-inspired diamond has been gaining popularity due to its romantic, timeless appeal. Lab-made diamonds in cushion shapes offer excellent brilliance and are ideal for anyone looking for a blend of classic and contemporary styles.
Emerald Cut Diamond
Emerald cut diamonds are renowned for their step-cut faceting, giving them a distinctive, elongated rectangular shape. The broad, flat planes of the facets create a ‘hall of mirrors’ effect, emphasizing clarity over sparkle. Lab-made emerald-cut diamonds are perfect for those who appreciate understated elegance and clean lines.
Oval Cut Diamond
An oval-shaped diamond is a perfect choice for someone who desires the brilliance of a round cut but wants something more unique. The elongated shape of the oval cut can also create an illusion of larger size. In lab-made diamonds, the oval cut often looks stunning due to its excellent symmetry and lengthening effect on the finger.
Marquise Cut Diamond
The marquise cut, with its elongated shape and pointed ends, exudes sophistication and regality. This shape is known for making the diamond appear larger than it is due to its stretched form. When it comes to lab-made diamonds, the precision of the marquise cut ensures a diamond that stands out in any jewelry piece.
Pear-Shaped Diamond
Combining the brilliance of a round diamond with the unique teardrop shape, the pear-shaped diamond offers elegance and versatility. The graceful taper at one end gives the diamond a distinct look. Lab-made pear-shaped diamonds often sparkle brilliantly, making them a popular choice for earrings and pendants.
Radiant Cut Diamond
The radiant cut combines the geometry of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round cut. It features trimmed corners and a more sparkly appearance. The radiant cut is a fantastic choice for those who desire maximum brilliance from a rectangular or square-shaped diamond. Lab-made radiant diamonds amplify this cut’s fire and sparkle.
Asscher Cut Diamond
Similar to the emerald cut, the Asscher cut features step-cut facets but is more square in shape. Known for its vintage appeal, the Asscher cut exudes a sense of refinement and old-world charm. Lab-made diamonds in the Asscher shape offer exceptional clarity, with the step cuts allowing light to bounce within the diamond.
Heart-Shaped Diamond
For a romantic and symbolic choice, the heart-shaped diamond is unparalleled. This unique cut is a testament to love and commitment, making it a popular choice for engagement rings. In lab-made diamonds, the precision in creating a symmetrical heart shape results in a striking and meaningful gemstone.
Choosing the Right Diamond Shape for Your Lab-Made Diamond
When selecting a diamond shape, consider both the aesthetics and the symbolism behind the shape. Each diamond shape carries its own personality and flair. For instance, round cuts are timeless and traditional, while princess and cushion cuts are modern and bold. The emerald and Asscher cuts are perfect for someone who values clarity and understated elegance, while heart-shaped diamonds offer a personal, romantic touch.
Additionally, the choice of diamond shape will also depend on the setting and design of the jewelry. A solitaire ring, for example, may highlight the shape of the diamond more than a halo or cluster setting. Consider how the shape will fit into the overall design and how it complements the wearer’s style.
Conclusion
Lab-made diamonds offer a stunning range of diamond shapes that cater to every personal preference and jewelry design. Whether you opt for a round, princess, or pear-shaped diamond, the precision and beauty of lab made diamonds ensure you get a gemstone that shines just as brilliantly as nature-made diamonds. Understanding these shapes and their unique characteristics will help you make a well-informed decision when selecting your next piece of lab-made diamond jewelry.