Cushion cut diamonds with elegance & sparkle...

With its unusual shape, the Cushion cut diamond is one of the most popular cuts of diamonds ever. This fancy cut has been around for more than a century, and is sometimes called the ‘Pillow cut’. The Cushion cut is an interesting alternative to the Oval or Princess cuts. These diamonds are actually antique pieces that mainly look like something between the ‘Old Mine’ cut of the late 19th and early 20th centuries and the Modern Oval cut.

The modern Cushion shape is based on the Antique Cushion cut, which is a combination of round and square outlines, with a softened square or ‘pillow’ shape that gives it its name. The rounded corners surrounding a large facet give Cushion cut diamonds great depth and add to their brilliance.

The value of vintage Cushion cut diamonds varies widely. If you have deep pockets, the ideal would be a 2 carat Cushion cut diamond of the color ‘G’ and ‘VS2’ clarity. A more affordable option is an ‘I’ colored diamond with ‘SI2’ clarity.

Modern Cushion cut diamonds are also known as ‘Candlelight diamonds’. These diamonds have a look that evokes romance because of their natural shine and beauty.

Ideal proportions

There are no established ideal proportions for Cushion cut diamonds. The cutting process and the attention to detail make for a more attractive and valuable diamond.

Cushion cut diamonds should not exceed a length-to-width ratio of 1.2:1.

Squarer cushion cuts have a ratio of 1:1.

While the rectangular ones have a ratio of 1.2:1.

If you are unsure about the terms, check out diamond terminology.

Useful tips

• The precise shape of a Cushion cut diamond is largely a matter of choice. Diamonds cut to a ratio of 1:1 are more square; diamonds cut to a ratio greater than 1:1.15 are more rectangular in shape.
• Instead of going for a larger carat weight, always opt for a diamond that reflects the maximum amount of light and is neither dull, nor too opaque.
• When shopping for a 2 ct Cushion cut diamond, keep in mind that older stones will reflect light in a different pattern than newer Cushion cuts.
• As the Cushion cut shows up any inclusions or imperfections, it is important to make sure that the color and clarity of the diamond are of high quality.

A Cushion cut diamond setting should have at least four secure prongs to support each of the four rounded corners.

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