Everything You Need to Know About Princess Cut Diamonds
Princess cut diamonds are second in popularity among diamond cuts, surpassed only by the round brilliant cut. This cut is relatively new and offers a feminine, modern look. Let’s take a look at what makes the princess cut so pecial.
What is a princess cut diamond?
Princess cut diamonds are square shaped, with four pointed corners. They are composed of between 50 and 58 chevron shaped facets that produce high brilliance. Chevron or V-shaped facets are polished into the diamond's pavilion and increase the gem’s brilliance. When it comes to reducing waste, princess cut diamonds are at the front of the line. The princess cut requires 80% of the rough stone to be used, wasting less of the rough stone than most other cuts.
Princess Cut Diamonds
History of the princess cut diamond
The predecessor of the modern princess cut is the primitive square cut of the 14th century. In the early 1900s, it evolved into the French cut. The purpose of the French cut was to use as much of the rough stone as possible. By the 1960s, diamond cutters improved the cut with adjustments to facet placement and angles. This created a more brilliant cut than earlier versions, and became very similar to the princess cut we know and love today.
Originally called the “profile cut,” the princess cut became popular in the 1980s. Since then, it has continued to grow in popularity over time due to its uniqueness and brilliance.
Why choose a princess cut diamond?
Princess cut diamonds offer as much fire and brilliance as a round brilliant cut, but at a more affordable price point. The princess cut is less pricey than the round cut because the princess cut doesn't waste as much rough stone. In fact, a 1 carat princess cut diamond sells for the same price as a 0.80 carat round brilliant cut diamond. If you’re looking for a brilliant, sparkling diamond at an affordable price, princess cut diamonds are your best bet
What are the downsides of princess cut diamonds?
While princess cut diamonds provided exceptional value for their carat weight, there are some downsides to consider. Princess cut diamonds offer the least finger coverage per carat than other cuts. For example, a 1 carat round brilliant diamond would look larger than a princess cut diamond of the same carat weight. This is because the princess cut diamond has a smaller diameter.
How to choose a princess cut diamond
When it comes to princess cut diamonds, choosing a high clarity grade is important. Princess cut diamonds have large tables, so any imperfections that exist within a stone are easy to see. You’ll want an eye-clean diamond with this cut. Watch out for inclusions in the corners in particular - this makes them more prone to chipping or breakage. Princess cut diamonds don’t offer as much light return as round brilliants. For this reason, choosing a higher color grade ensures a colorless look. Princess cuts with color grades of at least H or I look fantastic.
When it comes to shape, aim for a princess cut diamond that is proportionally square for a true-to-cut diamond. Some princess cuts are slightly rectangular and are less expensive. If you’re looking for a more affordable gem, these somewhat less proportional princess cuts are a great option.
All settings work with a princess-cut center stone! Settings that protect a princess cut's sharp corners from getting stuck or chipping are a safe choice. Halo settings protect its corners, and also add sparkle. You can choose to show off your princess cut diamond with a solitaire setting, or add side stones for even more bling.
Conclusion
The princess cut is a beautiful, classic design that will never go out of style. Its elegant shape and stunning sparkle offer a major wow factor. Princess cut diamonds make the perfect center stone for engagement rings, or stunning additions to your jewelry box for everyday wear. Browse princess cut diamonds at Lamour Brilliance Jewelry or pick out your dream princess cut ring.