Diamond Guide

Note: Insert image of cushion diamond ring (s) on hand or only ring(s)

What is a Cushion Cut Diamond?

A cushion cut diamond is a square or rectangular-shaped diamond with softly rounded corners, resembling a pillow—hence the name! This cut blends the charm of antique diamonds with the brilliance of modern cutting techniques. Cushion cut diamonds have large facets that maximize light reflection, giving them impressive fire (colorful flashes of light) and brilliance (white light reflection). Their vintage-inspired shape makes them a romantic and timeless choice for engagement rings, combining elegance with a hint of old-world charm.

Cushion Cut diamond rings are a favorite among celebrities, notably Kim Kardashian’s stunning 15-carat Cushion Cut engagement ring from Kanye West and Meghan Markle’s three-stone ring, which features a Cushion Cut center diamond flanked by round side stones.

Cushion cut diamonds come in two primary variations:

Classic Cushion Cut: Features larger, chunkier facets for a softer, more romantic glow.

Modified Cushion Cut: Offers extra facets to enhance brilliance and create a “crushed ice” effect, adding a dazzling sparkle to the stone.

History of Cushion Cut Diamonds

The Cushion Cut dates to the 1700s, where it was known as the “old mine cut.” This early version of the Cushion Cut was hand-cut with fewer, larger facets, giving it a softer sparkle compared to modern diamonds. The cut gained popularity during the Georgian and Victorian eras and was the go-to shape for diamonds before the Round Brilliant Cut emerged.

In the 19th century, technological advancements in diamond cutting refined the Cushion Cut, increasing its brilliance and making it more symmetrical. Today, the Cushion Cut remains one of the most popular choices for engagement rings, offering a perfect blend of vintage charm and contemporary sparkle. The famous Hope Diamond, one of the world’s most legendary gems, is a Cushion Cut diamond weighing a stunning 45.52 carats.

Note: Insert image of cushion diamond ring (s) on hand or only ring(s)

Why Choose a Cushion Cut Diamond?

The soft, pillow-like shape and the classic design make cushion cut diamonds lend to their romantic charm. Cushion cut diamonds also offer exceptional brilliance and fire, making them a dazzling choice for engagement rings. The modified Cushion Cut, in particular, creates a mesmerizing “crushed ice” effect that enhances sparkle. Cushion cuts are highly versatile and look stunning in a variety of settings, including halos, solitaires, and vintage-inspired designs. Their soft edges also make them a great choice for halo settings, which further enhance their sparkle.

Cushion cuts are more affordable than round cut brilliant diamonds of the same carat weight. Cushion cut diamonds, offering better value for those looking to maximize size and sparkle within a budget.

One downside of cushion cut diamonds is that they may appear slightly smaller than round diamonds of the same carat weight due to their deeper cut. Additionally, they can sometimes display a bowtie effect (a dark area across the center), although a well-cut Cushion can minimize this issue.

Tips for Choosing a Cushion Cut Diamond?

While GIA doesn’t assign a cut grade for cushion cut diamonds, prioritize excellent symmetry and polish to maximize sparkle. The length-to-width ratio matters depending on your preference—1.00 to 1.05 gives a perfect square look, while 1.10 to 1.20 creates a more rectangular shape.

Cushion cut diamonds tend to retain more color than round cuts due to their larger facets. For a bright, white appearance, aim for a G-H color grade or higher. If you prefer a warmer, antique look, a J or K color grade can provide a slightly tinted hue that enhances the vintage aesthetic.

Cushion Cut diamonds do a great job of hiding inclusions, thanks to their brilliant facets. However, to ensure an eye-clean diamond, choose one with VS1-VS2 clarity or higher for the best visual appeal.

This cut often appears slightly smaller than round brilliant diamonds of the same carat weight due to their deeper pavilion. To achieve a similar visual size, consider going up slightly in carat weight if size is a priority.