Round vs. Cushion Cut Lab Grown Diamond: All You Need To Know
Thinking about popping the question or do you just want to treat yourself to some diamond sparkle? You’ve probably found yourself caught up in the cushion cut diamond vs round cut diamond debate. Don’t worry! This article is here to walk you through the ins and outs of these popular choices, so you can make a decision that fits your style and budget.
What is a Round Cut Diamond?
Round cut diamonds, also called round brilliant cut diamonds, are a popular diamond shape and probably the most recognized diamond shape out there. They have 57 or 58 facets, counting the culet, which is the tiny point at the bottom. These facets are carefully arranged to make the diamond shine by reflecting and refracting light. This gives the diamond its amazing brilliance and fire, making it sparkle like crazy.
The round brilliant cut was fine-tuned by Marcel Tolkowsky back in 1919 when he published his book "Diamond Design," which laid out his mathematical approach to cutting diamonds. Since then, this cut has become the go-to for diamond brilliance. Traditionally, round cut diamonds have been loved for their classic look and versatility. Today, they make up about 75% of all diamond sales.
Key Features:
- Brilliance: The round cut is all about sparkle, designed to reflect the most light and outshine other diamond cuts.
- Versatility: This classic shape works with just about any jewelry setting, whether it's an engagement ring, necklace, or earrings.
- Popularity: Round cut diamonds are super popular, so you'll find plenty of options in different sizes and qualities.
- Value Retention: These diamonds generally hold their value well, which makes them a smart investment.
What is a Cushion Cut Diamond?
Cushion cut diamonds, or as some call them “pillow-cut” diamonds, have this lovely square or rectangular shape with rounded corners that make them look like little cushions. They’re known for their larger facets, which really bring out the diamond’s brilliance and fire, creating a stunning light show. You can choose between a more elongated look or a square one, depending on what you like.
These cuts have been around since the 18th century and are rooted in the “old mine cut” diamonds. They were a big hit during the Victorian and Art Deco times and were often flaunted by royalty and celebrities. Cushion cut diamonds are also known as fancy shaped diamonds.
Even with their vintage origins, cushion cuts have stayed trendy because of their timeless elegance and versatility. They're a top pick for engagement rings and fine jewelry, perfectly balancing classic charm with modern style.
Key Features:
- Brilliance and Fire: With their larger facets, cushion cut diamonds know how to shine and sparkle.
- Versatility: You can tweak the length-to-width ratio of cushion cut diamonds to match your personal taste.
- Cost-Effective: These diamonds often come at a lower price than round brilliant cuts, so you can save some money without losing any of the beauty.
Comparing Round vs. Cushion Cut Diamonds
When deciding between cushion cut diamonds vs round, it's essential to consider several factors to determine which cut best suits your preferences and lifestyle.
Brilliance and Sparkle
These two diamond shapes are top-notch when it comes to beauty and brilliance, but when it comes to sparkle, they go their separate ways.
Diamonds sparkle thanks to their cut, which determines how light bounces around inside them. When light enters a diamond, it refracts and creates internal reflections, resulting in brilliance. Plus, dispersion breaks light into spectral colors, producing the colorful flashes known as "fire." Together, these effects give diamonds their signature sparkle and brilliance.
Round Cut Diamonds are famous for their amazing brilliance and sparkle. With 58 facets, they reflect light like no other, creating a dazzling effect. Often considered the most brilliant diamond shape, the round cut's symmetrical design and precise facet arrangement make it truly stand out.
On the other hand, Cushion Cut Diamonds have their charm with a mix of brilliance and fire. They might not match the sheer brilliance of round cuts, but they have more fire, meaning they scatter light into various colors beautifully. With a vintage feel and a softer glow, cushion cuts are perfect for those who love a romantic and antique vibe.
Shape and Appearance
Round Cut Diamonds are the classic everyone knows and loves. Their circular shape makes them super versatile for all kinds of jewelry whether it’s a simple solitaire or a detailed halo design. The balance and symmetry of the round cut makes it a crowd favorite.
Cushion Cut Diamonds have a square or rectangular shape with soft corners, kind of like a pillow. They mix the brilliance of a round cut with the vintage charm of an old mine cut. With cushion cuts you get to choose from different proportions some are more square some are rectangular so there’s something for everyone.
Versatility and Style
In terms of style, round-cut diamonds are incredibly versatile and classic, fitting into many jewelry styles. Round-cut diamonds are the most popular among diamond shapes, and many buyers prefer them for engagement rings and diamond jewelry.
On the other hand, cushion-cut diamonds are considered a unique and vintage style with a modern twist. They are often chosen for their fabulous look. Cushion cuts shine especially in halo settings, where smaller diamonds surround the center stone, increasing its brilliance and making a stunning visual impact on the wearer's personality.
Cost and Value
Round cut diamonds are pricier than cushion cuts. According to recent market prices, round cut diamonds are 25% more expensive than cushion cuts. The higher price of round cuts is due to their high demand and the precision needed for their brilliance, which increases waste and, consequently, the cost.
Cushion cut diamonds are the best budget-friendly option for buyers. Those with budget constraints can choose cushion cut diamonds without spending extra. Despite being more affordable, cushion cuts still offer great beauty and excellent value for money.
Durability
Round Cut Diamonds are durable since they don’t have sharp edges so there’s less chance of chipping. This makes them a practical choice for everyday wear especially in engagement rings.
Cushion shaped diamonds are also durable because of their rounded corners. Unlike sharp edged diamonds cushion cuts are less prone to chipping so they’re a reliable choice for different kinds of jewelry. Their sturdy design can handle daily wear and tear well.
Here's a quick table that sums up the points we just talked about.
| Aspect | Round Cut Diamonds | Cushion Cut Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Brilliance & Sparkle | Incredible brilliance with 58 facets; most brilliant shape | Mix of brilliance and fire; vintage feel with softer glow |
| Shape & Appearance | Classic, perfect circle, versatile for all jewelry | Square/rectangular with rounded corners; vintage appeal |
| Versatility & Style | Fits modern and traditional designs; timeless favorite | Unique style; shines in halo settings |
| Cost & Value | Pricier due to demand and cutting precision | More budget-friendly; beautiful and great value |
| Durability | No sharp edges; less risk of chipping; practical choice | Rounded corners; durable, less prone to chipping |
Choosing Between Round and Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds
When it comes to choosing between round and cushion diamonds, it will depend on personal preference. Cushion lab-grown diamonds are approximately 25% cheaper than round diamonds. So, if you have budget limitations or don't want to spend too much on a diamond, you can opt for the cushion cut, as it is more affordable than the round cut. Many customers are attracted by the price of cushion cuts compared to round cuts.
If you have already decided on a round diamond, please don't be swayed by the price of the cushion cut, because, at the end of the day, it's important to get what we love and want. Also, please buy lab-grown diamonds only if you intend to keep them for a lifetime, as they have a lower resale value compared to natural diamonds.
When deciding which cut is right for you or your partner, consider factors such as style, preferences, daily activities, and how the diamond will look on your or her hand.
Also Read
Pros and Cons of Each Cut
Round Cut Pros and Cons
Pros:
- High brilliance: Round cut diamonds are known for their exceptional sparkle, thanks to their 58 facets that maximize light reflection.
- Classic appeal: The timeless design of round cut diamonds makes them a popular choice for diamond engagement rings and other jewelry pieces.
- Versatility: Round cut diamonds complement various settings and styles, offering a wide range of options for customization.
Cons:
- Higher cost: Due to their popularity and intricate cutting process, round cut diamonds tend to be more expensive than other cuts.
- Limited uniqueness: While classic, round cut diamonds may not offer the distinctiveness some individuals seek in a custom piece.
Cushion Cut Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Unique vintage charm: Cushion cut diamonds offer a romantic, vintage-inspired look that appeals to those seeking a distinctive piece.
- Cost-effectiveness: Cushion cut diamonds tend to be more affordable than round cuts, providing excellent value for those on a budget.
- Versatility in settings: The cushion cut's soft edges and romantic appeal make it ideal for various settings, including vintage-inspired and halo designs.
Cons:
- Less brilliance: Cushion cut diamonds have a softer sparkle compared to round cuts, which may not appeal to those seeking maximum brilliance.
- Susceptibility to light leakage: Due to their larger facets, cushion cut diamonds may experience more light leakage, impacting their overall brightness.
Average Prices for Round and Cushion Natural Diamonds
| Carat Weight | Est. Round Cut Price (USD) | Est. Cushion Cut Price (USD) | Color Range | Clarity Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | $1,500 - $2,500 | $1,200 - $2,000 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
| 1.0 | $4,000 - $6,000 | $3,500 - $5,500 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
| 1.5 | $8,000 - $12,000 | $7,000 - $10,000 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
| 2.0 | $15,000 - $25,000 | $12,000 - $20,000 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
Average Prices for Round and Cushion Lab Diamonds
| Carat Weight | Est. Round Cut Price (USD) | Est. Cushion Cut Price (USD) | Color Range | Clarity Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0.5 | $500 - $1,000 | $400 - $900 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
| 1.0 | $1,000 - $1,500 | $800 - $1,200 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
| 1.5 | $2,000 - $3,000 | $1,500 - $2,500 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
| 2.0 | $4,000 - $5,000 | $3,000 - $4,500 | D - J | IF - SI2 |
Conclusion
In the end, choosing between a cushion cut and a round brilliant diamond is all about your personal taste and what matters most to you. Both cuts have their own unique features and charm, so you're sure to find the perfect diamond that fits your style and budget. Whether you go for the timeless sparkle of a round cut or the vintage allure of a cushion cut, each one promises a stunning piece you'll love for years. It might be a good idea to chat with a jeweler or diamond expert to make sure you pick the right one for your needs and preferences.
