With so many different gemstones and diamond cuts and shapes out there, picking the perfect sparkler can be a minefield! Not only do you have to figure which kind of setting appeals the most, you also have pick the gemstone cut and shape. Popping that all important question deserves a ring that ticks all the boxes, so we've put together an easy run down of the main gemstone and diamond shapes out there, as well as how it effects a stone's sparkle. Keep reading to narrow down whether you prefer a more modern approach or lean towards the traditional side!

A Guide to Diamond Cuts and Shapes

Cut vs Shape

The shape of a diamond refers to the outline of the stone whereas the cut refers to the diamond's proportions, the way its polished and its facets, which affect the way your ring shines and sparkles. The more facets, the more light is reflected so the more a gem sparkles. Cut is one of the famous four Cs - along with colour, clarity and carat - to determine the value of a diamond.

Round

The most familiar of the various cut options, the round diamond is ever popular because of its strong sparkling abilities and the spectacular way light shines, glitters and reflects through its facets.

Oval

Oval in shape, this style of diamond provides its wearer with a similar brilliance and shine to a round cut and is a timeless, incredibly elegant option.

Marquise

For that added level of drama, the Marquise cut takes on the form of a elongated striking oval with pointed ends. It can be great for making fingers look longer. Marquise cut diamonds are less expensive than round cut diamonds of the same carat weight, as they are not as in demand and allow gem cutters to make bigger cuts out of the same amount of raw material.

Pear

Combing the Marquise and oval cuts, a pear cut diamond takes the curved shape of the oval and the pointed tip of the Marquise to create the eye-catching teardrop appearance of this style.

Princess

Perfect for the modern bride, Princess-cut diamonds are a fantastic, contemporary option with an angular shape and inverted pyramid design.

Cushion

If you are leaning towards a more square shape but prefer a softer more rounded touch, the classic cushion-cut is a fantastic option for you.

Emerald

If you're searching for a showstopping diamond that leaves an impression, look no further than an emerald cut which filters and shines out light differently to other cuts due to its straight facets.

Baguette

At first glance it's easy to confuse an emerald cut for a baguette cut as they both feature a long rectangular shape. While the emerald cut has polished right angled corners the baguette differs in this aspect with its sharp, pointed corners.

Radiant

Another cut that shares the familiar rectangular shape, the radiant cut differentiates itself with its many facets that are polished similarly to a round cut - adding that covetable extra sparkle.

Asscher 

Also referred to as square emerald cuts, Asscher diamonds have a stepped square appearance and feature clipped corners.

Heart

For the romantics out there, the heart shape cut is for you! The signature heart shape and sparkling nature of this glittering diamond cut makes it a statement stone that packs a punch!

Trilliant or Trillion

If a square, round, rectangular or heart shape doesn't spark you joy, than a trilliant diamond might be for you! With the sides of this style of cut coming in curved and uncurved variations, the triangular shape glints and reflects light spectacularly.

If you want more great ring advice, read our 15 Must-Read Engagement Ring Shopping Tips here!