The Best Gemstone Shape to Suit your Unique Style

When it comes to purchasing a stunning new engagement ring there are a handful of factors that immediately stand out: the band style, the gemstone type and colour and also the number of gemstones. However, less attention is given to the exact shape of the gemstone. 

But why though? Why isn’t the shape of the gemstone not as important say, as its size (carat) and cut? But wait a minute, isn’t the gemstone cut and its shape the same thing? Well not quite. And in this post, we will explain why it is important to pay attention to a gemstone cut when going for a top-quality pink sapphire ring Australia, and when choosing the right gemstone cut in general.  

What is a Gemstone’s Shape?

When a gemstone is taken as rough stone from the mine or is made artificially it is usually not fit for use in fine jewellery like engagement rings. Hence jewellers and others involved in the gemstone and jewellery business subject the stone to various changes. The most notable of which is the cutting and polishing of the stone.

Now in general all gemstones that are used in fine jewellery undergo some degree of cutting. This even includes the cabochon cut: where the gemstone is carefully shaped with a distinct convex rounding shape that is distinct in the gemstone world. However, additionally, the gemstone is also cut to specific shapes: such as round, heart, pear, marquise, cushion etc.

When it comes to gemstone cuts, however, we are talking about gemstone cuts that were first popularised in the diamond world and tend to feature strongly there. Top gemstone cuts include the brilliant cut, the step cut and one that is more popular in the world of sapphires and non-carbon gemstones: the mixed cut.

Here it is important to note that the terms cut and shape tend to overlap. Especially when talking about diamond or gemstone shapes. Since standard jewellery buyers tend to focus less on the specifics, the term cut has come to apply to the main gemstone shapes. For our discussion, we will be looking at the top gemstone cuts (shapes) and explaining what is best for you.

The Round Brilliant Cut

Arguably the most popular gemstone cut, particularly when it comes to diamond engagement rings Australia is the round brilliant cut. This is the hallmark of the dating industry, this gemstone cut, which is dominant in the world of diamonds: the gemstone cut that features 58 facets and is known for its top-quaity brilliance and scintillation. Among the most popular, if not the most popular gemstone cuts in the world of diamonds it is the best choice when it comes to light reflectivity owing to its distinct shape and faceting. Considered the most expensive diamond, it is a premium option. And often comes in smaller carats, as larger diamonds that feature this cut is relatively expensive. The round brilliant cut is specially made for those seeking top-class diamond engagement rings Australia. It is not the cheapest option but it is also the most premium. A choice for those who wish to showcase high value.

Princess Cut Gemstone

Again, even though we say cut, technically we are referring to a gemstone shape. In this style of a gemstone, we are dealing with the classical square shape gemstone. One that stands as the top competitor to the dominance of round brilliant cut diamonds. Princess cut diamonds hold that high middle ground in gemstone shapes. Whilst not as premium looking as the round cut, it is nonetheless a premium choice, standing at the top of the list for major diamond and gemstone cuts. The gemstone’s sharp edges make it immediately stand out from the rest. A more recent addition to the diamond cuts range, starting life in around the 1980s, the princess cut style is a great addition to the range of gemstone rings, and yes that even includes non-carbon-based gemstones. So you are able to find ring setting such as blue sapphire ring Australia and pink sapphire ring Australia in princess cut styles.

Marquise-Cut Gemstone Style

A more interesting addition to the gemstone style range is the Marquise cut gemstone style. True to its name, the Marquise cut carries with it a sense of class. Its origins are interesting. Going back to the midpoint of the 18th century the Marquise gemstone was apparently modelled after a famous mistress of King Louis XV. So this lip-shaped gemstone cut is certainly a stand-out option. As its adoption in the world of diamond engagement rings Australia is not common, the slender shape of the style and great carat-to-size ratio makes this gemstone style an amazing option for those in the market for blue sapphire ring Australia. And if wish to learn more about diamond cuts and their value why not check out our Education pages.

The Unmissable Cushion Cut Style

One of the more recognisable gemstone cuts in the industry is the comfortable pillow-like shape of the cushion cut stone. Considered a timeless cut in the world of diamonds, its style and simplicity have earned it a place in the world of gemstone jewellery, with variants like the blue sapphire ring Australia and pink sapphire ring Australia featuring the calm and stylish cushion cut gemstone style. Known for their great light reflective capabilities cushion-cut gemstones and cushion cut engagement rings are a nice choice, though their adoption would greatly depend on the wearers' preferences. Especially for those who don't like those sharp corners. So please check with your prospective partner-albeit indirectly-on what their style of  gemstone is.

The Distinct Emerald-Cut Diamonds

There is little ambiguity about the Emerald cut gemstone. Once again a mainstay in the diamond world, emeralds cuts actually originate in the world of emeralds. Dating back hundreds of years to the 16th century, modern emerald cuts emerged out of the practice of emerald cutting, which was done to minimise the chance of chips and breaks. Soon this style was adopted into the world of diamonds, which became the top gemstone. Learn more about the history of diamonds here. One of the standout features of the emerald cut is its elongated shape: this gemstone cut makes the ring stand out in a pronounced way, with a step-cut on the side that enables it to produce the famous hall of mirrors effect. This is certainly an uncanny choice and is not for everyone. But it is a great gemstone style in the diamond engagement rings Australia range.