The 10 Modern Diamond Cuts: Which Is Best for You?
Choosing the right diamond shape is about more than looks. The cut you pick changes how much sparkle you get, how the stone appears on your hand, and even what kind of personality it reflects.
Today’s diamond shoppers in New Zealand want more than just the 4Cs. They want meaning, personal style, and something that fits their finger shape and lifestyle. Whether you’re buying diamond engagement rings, diamond earrings, or just exploring styles, this guide can help you choose the shape that fits you best. We show not just the technical details but also how many people are searching for these diamond cuts specifically per month in New Zealand!
Round Brilliant Cut
NZ Search Volume: 30
Facets: 57 or 58
Table Size: ~54–57%
Cut Type: Brilliant
The classic. This is the most popular choice for diamond engagement rings. It’s timeless, elegant, and gives the most sparkle of any shape. The round cut suits all finger shapes and works well in all settings. The balance of sparkle and symmetry makes it a top choice.
Princess Cut
NZ Search Volume: 170
Facets: 57 or 76
Table Size: ~68–75%
Cut Type: Brilliant
The princess cut is sharp and modern. It has a square face and lots of fire. It’s second in popularity after the round. It looks great on slender fingers and has a youthful feel. Often used in both lab grown diamonds and natural stones.
Emerald Cut
NZ Search Volume: 170
Facets: 57
Table Size: ~61–69%
Cut Type: Step
This cut shows elegance and confidence. It’s known for its long lines and open appearance. Since it uses a step cut, it shows fewer sparkles but more clarity. A great choice if you want to highlight a high-quality IGI certificate stone. Ideal for wider or longer fingers.
Asscher Cut
NZ Search Volume: 110
Facets: 57
Table Size: ~60–68%
Cut Type: Step
Retro and bold. The Asscher cut has a square shape with cut corners, giving it an Art Deco feel. Like the emerald, it’s a step cut and shows off clarity. Good for vintage lovers or someone who wants a unique and deep look.
Cushion Cut
NZ Search Volume: 110
Facets: 58
Table Size: ~61–68%
Cut Type: Brilliant or Modified Brilliant
Soft and romantic. The cushion cut has rounded corners and large facets. It balances sparkle and warmth. It looks great on all hand types and works especially well in halo settings or with fancy color diamonds.
Oval Cut
NZ Search Volume: 20
Facets: 56
Table Size: ~53–63%
Cut Type: Brilliant
This cut is trendy yet elegant. It has a similar sparkle to the round cut, but the longer shape gives the illusion of longer fingers. Great for diamond engagement rings if you want something classic but not too common.
Marquise Cut
NZ Search Volume: 50
Facets: 58
Table Size: ~53–63%
Cut Type: Brilliant
Regal and eye-catching. The marquise shape maximises surface area, so your carat looks bigger. It’s pointed at both ends and elongates the finger. Works well with vintage-inspired designs and slim bands.
Pear Cut
NZ Search Volume: 50
Facets: 58
Table Size: ~53–65%
Cut Type: Brilliant
Also called a teardrop cut. It’s elegant and a bit dramatic. The pointed tip adds length to the finger while the rounded base gives sparkle. Looks beautiful in drop diamond earrings and rings alike.
Radiant Cut
NZ Search Volume: 110
Facets: 70
Table Size: ~61–69%
Cut Type: Mixed (Brilliant + Step)
The radiant cut is full of life. It mixes the sparkle of the brilliant cut with the shape of the emerald. It’s versatile and great for active people. Perfect for those who want shine and structure in one.
Heart Cut
NZ Search Volume: 10
Facets: 56–58
Table Size: ~56–62%
Cut Type: Brilliant
Romantic and symbolic. The heart cut is bold and not for everyone, but if you love to stand out and wear your heart on your sleeve, it’s perfect. It also works well in fancy color diamonds.
Best Diamond Cuts by Finger Shape
- Short Fingers: Oval, Pear, Marquise
- Long Fingers: Round, Cushion, Princess
- Wide Fingers: Emerald, Marquise, Radiant
- Slender Fingers: Princess, Heart, Asscher
- Large Hands: Emerald, Cushion, Radiant
- Small Hands: Round, Princess, Pear
Conclusion
Every diamond shape has its charm. Some bring more sparkle. Some show more depth. Some are bold, and others timeless.
Try on a few. See what fits your hand, your style, and your heart.
Whether you’re buying lab grown diamonds or natural stones, make sure the shape feels like you. That’s what makes it perfect.