Guide to Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Rings

You've probably seen this ring cut on someone's finger and thought, "Wait, what shape is that? It’s neither an oval nor a rectangle." That is an elongated cushion-cut ring. It is softer than a radiant cut, more captivating than a round one, and taller than the classic cushion most people picture. And once you notice their timeless grace with a modern twist, you’ll want one for yourself, too. 

What is an Elongated Cushion-Cut Diamond?

Before we determine what an elongated cushion-cut diamond is, let’s understand the classic cushion cut. In simple terms, we can think of it like a square with its edges and curves rounded. Like an oval to a circle, an elongated cushion diamond is a bit stretched out, making it cover more space on your finger. The longer the shape (measured by comparing length and width), the more elongated it appears.

Most people also choose a length-to-width ratio of around 1.20, which makes the shape stand out in a balanced manner. With a long history behind it, this popular engagement ring cut provides a soft, romantic look that avoids the sharp, aggressive corners of a radiant or princess cut.

Why Choose an Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Ring?

Elongated cushion cuts started becoming popular in the early 20th century (especially during the Art Deco period) when people gained an appreciation for geometric shapes and detailed design. Apart from that, here are a few more reasons why they have become the top choice for engagement ring cuts. 

1. Elegant and Unique Shape

A cushion-cut diamond has a long history of being associated with royalty. Additionally, the elongated cushion adds a distinct modern silhouette that feels both vintage and contemporary. It is a safe bet for a diamond ring that definitely won't go out of style by your fifth anniversary.

2. Appears Larger Than Square Cushion Cuts

This is the most practical reason for going ahead with elongated cushion cuts. Thanks to their longer shape, these cuts naturally look bigger on the finger, even when the carat weight is the same. It gives you more surface area for the same price. If you're working within a budget (and most people are), this shape is working with you.

3. Exceptional Brilliance and Fire

Round-cut diamonds are known for their excellent brilliance, and emerald cuts are popular for their flash. As a shape that sits somewhere in between, elongated cushion-cut diamonds reflect light with a soft, romantic glow. If you want the signature diamond sparkle without feeling like your ring will blind somebody, this is the ring for you. 

4. Versatile and Timeless Appeal

The elongated cushion cut is one of the most versatile shapes in the jewelry industry. It’s a fresh and classic take on a shape beloved for centuries. So, whether you like an ultra-minimalist band or a diamond-heavy halo, this cut will blend in and add to all possible engagement ring styles. 

How to Choose the Best Elongated Cushion-Cut Diamond

1. Ideal Length-to-Width Ratio

The “elongated” in this ring’s name comes from its length-to-width ratio. To strike that sweet spot, aim for a ratio between 1.10 and 1.25. If you go lower, it starts looking like a square, and any higher would make it radiant. However, you can try and see how the shape would look in reality by requesting a 3D CAD file from us at CaratBee. This gives you a clear idea of what to expect before you make a purchase decision. On an average, we would suggest a ratio of 1.20 for most elongated cushion engagement rings. 

2. Cut Quality Matters

There's no industry-standard cut grade for cushions the way there is for rounds, so you have to check this yourself. Some stones have a crushed ice look, while others sparkle more like a brilliant cut. But do ensure that the sparkle of a diamond is evenly distributed across the entire face. Our best advice would be to trust your instincts after looking at the videos of your chosen ring in natural lighting. 

3. Clarity and Color Consideration

Cushion cuts hold onto color more than rounds, so choosing something eye-clean and near-colorless is usually a safe bet. For clarity, you don't need to chase the highest grades, but VS2 or VS1 usually offers the best balance of both quality and price.Best Ring Settings for Elongated Cushion Cut Diamonds

Solitaire Setting

The solitaire setting puts your elongated cushion cut front and center, letting its shape and sparkle do all the talking. It also pairs beautifully with almost any wedding band, making it very versatile.

Halo Setting

A halo setting surrounds the center elongated diamond with smaller stones, making the cushion cut look even larger and more brilliant. It also helps enhance the stone's shape, making the elongated proportions stand out even more. Most importantly, this ring holds the maximum impact for those who want it. 

Three-Stone Setting

In a three-stone setting, the elongated cushion-cut diamond is flanked by two smaller side stones. Mostly known for its symbolism of the past, present, and the future; it is the perfect choice for an engagement ring that's meaningful and a little more elaborate without going over the top. 

Vintage-Inspired Settings

Milgrain edges, filigree designs, and engraved bands (all of which are customizable at CaratBee) add a sense of romance and character to the elongated cushion cut ring, making it ideal for a future heirloom. Since this cut has actual roots in the 19th and 20th centuries, the vintage aesthetic feels earned rather than being costume-y.

Elongated Cushion Cut vs. Other Popular Diamond Shapes

Elongated Cushion Cut vs. Oval Cut

Both cuts are long and flatter your finger perfectly. While the oval cut is sleeker and more modern with an even spread of brilliance, the elongated cushion has soft, rounded corners with a pillow-like quality that adds a vintage feel. 

If you want more finger coverage, you should go with the oval, but if you want a complementary blend of softness and brilliance in your diamond ring, the elongated cushion cut will be the last one standing. Plus, this cut also tends to hide inclusions better due to its faceting style. 

Elongated Cushion Cut vs. Radiant Cut

While sharing a lot of similarity, both these cuts give off different sparkles and vibes. The radiant cut leans towards a more masculine look with its sharp geometric corners and defined angles, while the elongated cushion is softer, more romantic, and has a timeless charm. If you prefer clear-cut lines and brilliant sparkle, go with radiant, but if you want a softer look, the elongated cushion is the choice for you. 

Elongated Cushion Cut vs. Emerald Cut

Emerald cuts have a step-cut design that gives a hall-of-mirrors effect. It is elegant and understated but less fiery when compared to the cushion. Besides, the elongated cushion offers a brilliant shimmer that catches light from every angle and is more forgiving with inclusions even if you choose a lesser clarity grade. If you want a dreamy, warm glow, the cushion wins. If you want something cool and architectural, go emerald.

Related Article: Cushion Cut Lab Grown Diamond Ring: A Complete Guide

Conclusion

An elongated cushion cut is for anyone who wants a diamond that looks bigger than the budget suggests, sparkles warmly rather than aggressively, and won't feel dated in just five years. It checks all the right boxes for an engagement ring without requiring any compromise.

At CaratBee, our elongated cushion-cut lab grown diamonds are graded to the same standards as any mined diamond, available at an affordable price, and carry an ethical origin story. Every ring in our collection is crafted with certified lab grown diamonds, by master artisans. Looking for something more detailed? Our expert customization service ensures your ring is crafted exactly as you envision it.