There’s something almost magical about a diamond. It’s more than just carbon under pressure — it’s a piece of the Earth’s memory, a story caught in light. As a jeweller, I’ve spent years watching people fall in love with different formas de diamante, and honestly, it never gets old. Every cut seems to have its own personality. Some are bold, some are timeless, and others, well, they quietly steal the show.
You might think that all diamonds are the same — round, shiny, sparkly. But spend even a few minutes under the jeweller’s lamp, and you’ll see how dramatically shape can change everything. The way a diamond is cut doesn’t just determine how it looks, but how it feels, how it plays with light, and even what it says about the person wearing it.
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The Poetry of Shape
When people come into the studio, they often ask which shape is “best.” I always smile at that — because, truly, there isn’t one. Each form has its charm, its quirks, its own kind of poetry. The key is finding the shape that fits you — not your hand, but your soul.
Let’s start with the one everyone knows.
Round Brilliant: The Classic That Never Ages
If diamonds had royalty, the round brilliant would wear the crown. It’s the most popular cut by far — accounting for roughly 75% of all diamonds sold worldwide. Why? Because it’s engineered to shine. Every facet is calculated to maximise light return, giving that mesmerising sparkle you can spot across a room.
But here’s the thing — it’s not just “classic.” It’s deeply emotional. The round brilliant carries a sense of tradition, of promises made and kept. When someone chooses it, they’re often saying, I want something timeless.
That said, perfection comes at a price. Because so much of the rough diamond is cut away to create this shape, it tends to cost a little more per carat. But if brilliance is what you’re after, this one’s unbeatable.
Princess Cut: Sharp Angles, Modern Hearts
Then there’s the princess cut — sharp, geometric, and full of attitude. It burst into popularity in the 1980s and has held its place ever since. With its square shape and dazzling symmetry, it’s a favourite among people who like clean lines and contemporary style.
It’s got that architectural look that feels confident — not fussy. The kind of diamond that doesn’t whisper elegance; it declares it.
Still, it’s worth noting that those pointed corners can be a bit fragile, so it needs a secure setting. As I often tell clients, “This cut’s a bit like a sports car — stunning, but handle it with care.”
Oval Cut: Soft, Elegant, and Surprisingly Bold
The oval cut is like a secret the industry has kept for too long. It’s elegant and elongates the finger beautifully. There’s something effortless about it — like someone who looks chic without even trying.
What I love about the oval is how it blends the sparkle of the round cut with a touch of vintage charm. And because it spreads the carat weight across a larger surface, you often get a bigger-looking diamond for your money.
Just be mindful of the “bow-tie effect” — that shadow across the centre that can appear in some ovals. A well-cut one, though, will glow evenly, almost like candlelight.
Emerald Cut: The Architect’s Dream
Now, if the round brilliant is fireworks, the emerald cut is moonlight. Instead of scintillation, you get these beautiful flashes — clean, elegant lines that draw your eye inward. It’s a cut that doesn’t hide anything. You can see straight into the diamond, which means clarity really matters here.
It’s often favoured by people who value sophistication over sparkle. There’s a quiet confidence in choosing an emerald cut — like saying, “I don’t need to shout to be noticed.”
Pear and Marquise: Shapes That Tell Stories
Some shapes, like the pear and marquise, are more than just styles — they’re statements.
The pear cut, sometimes called the “teardrop,” feels deeply romantic. Its asymmetry gives it a sense of movement, like it’s always in motion. It’s perfect for someone who loves a touch of drama but still wants a soft, graceful look.
The marquise, on the other hand, is all about length and flair. Legend has it that King Louis XV of France commissioned it to resemble the lips of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. Whether that’s true or not, the story alone gives it a mischievous charm. It’s daring, playful, and wonderfully vintage.
If you’re curious about how each of these cuts compares — their advantages, drawbacks, and how to pick the right one — you’ll find a genuinely insightful breakdown here: Formas de diamante. It’s a solid read, especially if you’re serious about learning how shape impacts sparkle and setting.
Cushion Cut: Vintage Soul, Modern Glow
The cushion cut is like an old soul in a new dress. It’s been around for centuries — once known as the “mine cut” — and still has that old-world charm. Its rounded corners and pillow-like shape give it a warm, romantic glow.
I find it especially lovely in antique-style settings, where it feels like it could’ve been passed down through generations. Yet, modern versions have more facets and brilliance, bridging the gap between vintage romance and modern radiance.
A Modern Twist: The Rise of Lab Diamonds
Now, I can’t talk about diamond shapes without mentioning what’s changed the industry in the last decade — lab diamonds.
Ten years ago, you might’ve raised an eyebrow if someone mentioned them. But today? They’re mainstream, ethical, and practically indistinguishable from mined diamonds to the naked eye. They share the same physical, chemical, and optical properties — they’re just created under controlled conditions instead of millions of years underground.
What I love most about lab diamonds is how they open up creative freedom. You can go bigger, bolder, or choose a rarer cut without breaking the bank or compromising on sustainability. Plus, they allow jewellers like me to experiment more with custom shapes — like hexagonal or kite cuts that were once too risky or expensive to attempt with mined stones.
If you’re curious about how these diamonds are transforming industries beyond jewellery — in tech, medicine, and even renewable energy — this article from Tech Journal is worth a read: lab diamonds. It’s honestly fascinating how far this technology has come.
Choosing the Right Shape for You
Picking a diamond shape is a bit like choosing a dress or a suit — it’s about what makes you feel like yourself. Forget trends for a moment. Think about your hands, your lifestyle, your story.
If you’re drawn to tradition, the round or cushion cuts will always be safe bets. If you’re a minimalist or love a modern edge, the emerald or princess cuts might be more your speed. And if you like a bit of romance or whimsy, the pear or marquise will make you smile every time you catch it in the light.
A little tip? Try them on. You might be surprised. I’ve seen people walk in swearing they wanted a princess cut and walk out absolutely smitten with an oval. There’s just something about seeing it on your own hand that changes everything.
A Reflection on Timelessness
Sometimes, when I’m setting a diamond — carefully aligning each prong, feeling the weight of the piece — I think about how long it’ll last. A diamond might outlive its owner, its maker, and even the trends that surround it. It’ll see generations.
That’s why the forma de diamante you choose matters. It’s not just a shape; it’s a design that will tell your story for decades. Whether it’s a round that shouts brilliance or an emerald that whispers grace, it’s a reflection of who you are — right now, in this moment.
And the best part? It’ll still shine just as bright fifty years from now.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve ever felt intimidated by the idea of buying or choosing a diamond, don’t be. There’s no wrong answer, no single “perfect” shape. It’s all about connection — that quiet spark when you see the right one.
Well, that and a bit of good craftsmanship, of course.
So whether you’re drawn to the classic glow of a round cut or the sleek sophistication of an emerald, take your time. Look closely. Let it catch the light. The right forma de diamante doesn’t just reflect light — it reflects you.
