The shape of a diamond and its cut are two distinct concepts that are often confused. The cut refers to how the facets reflect light — it is a quality criterion. The shape describes the geometric appearance of the stone as seen from above — it is a style criterion.
Both result from the work of the diamond cutter, who chooses the shape based on the rough stone and the intended jewel.
The Round Brilliant Cut
By far the most popular shape. With its 58 perfectly symmetrical facets, the round brilliant is the cut that maximises a diamond's brilliance. Its circular geometry has been perfected over centuries to optimise light reflection. Timeless and universal, it is the defining choice for an engagement ring.
The Princess Cut
Square in shape with pointed corners, the princess cut features more than 50 chevron-shaped facets that give it exceptional fire and brilliance. Contemporary and sharp, it brings an architectural modernity to any jewel.
The Emerald Cut
Recognisable by its long straight lines and cropped corners, the emerald cut creates a distinctive visual depth — a striking mirror effect. It showcases the purity of the stone and evokes Art Deco style. It is chosen by those who favour restrained elegance over maximum sparkle.
The Cushion Cut
The cushion, or "pillow cut", is a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners. More romantic than the princess cut, more voluminous than the round brilliant, it combines the classic and the contemporary with considerable grace.
The Oval Cut
Derived from the round brilliant, the oval cut visually elongates the finger and creates an illusion of greater size. It combines the brilliance of the round with a more distinctive silhouette.
At Origine Paris, we work primarily with round brilliant-cut diamonds, which corresponds to the aesthetic demands of our collections. Each stone is selected not only for its cut, but for the way it interacts with the lines of our designs.