Diamonds have always been a symbol of luxury and elegance. They are considered to be one of the most precious stones in the world, and their value is determined by many factors, including carat weight, color, clarity, and cut. However, when it comes to diamond shapes, not all shapes are created equal. There are several different diamond shapes available in the market, each with its unique characteristics and price points. In this article, we will explore which diamond shape is the most expensive.
The Four C’s
Before delving into the different diamond shapes available in the market, it is essential to understand the four C’s that determine their value. The four C’s stand for carat weight, color, clarity, and cut. Carat weight refers to the weight of the diamond, and the larger the carat weight, the more expensive the diamond. Color refers to the perceived color of the diamond, and the less color it has, the more valuable it is. Clarity refers to the number of inclusions or blemishes present in the diamond, and the fewer there are, the more valuable it is. Finally, cut refers to how well the diamond has been cut, and the better the cut, the more sparkle and brilliance it will have.
Diamond Shapes
Now that we understand the four C’s let us take a look at the different diamond shapes available in the market.
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Round Brilliant Cut
The round brilliant cut diamond is the most popular diamond shape and is often considered the classic diamond shape. It has 58 facets, which maximizes its brilliance and fire. The round brilliant cut is also the most expensive diamond shape due to its popularity and the amount of raw material that is lost during the cutting process.
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Princess Cut
The princess cut diamond has a square or rectangular shape with pointed corners. It has a brilliant cut and has 76 facets, which increases its sparkle and fire. The princess cut is the second most popular diamond shape and is often less expensive than the round brilliant cut.
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Emerald Cut
The emerald cut diamond has a rectangular shape with cut corners. It has long lines and fewer facets, which emphasize its clarity rather than its sparkle. The emerald cut is a popular choice for those who prefer a more understated look.
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Oval Cut
The oval cut diamond has an elongated shape with curved edges. It has similar brilliance to the round brilliant cut diamond but often appears larger due to its elongated shape. This makes it a popular choice for those who want a larger-looking diamond without the higher cost of a round brilliant cut.
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Marquise Cut
The marquise cut diamond has a boat-shaped appearance with pointed ends. It has a brilliant cut and an elongated shape, making it appear larger than other diamonds of the same carat weight. The marquise cut is also unique in that it can make the wearer’s finger appear longer and slimmer.
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Pear Cut
The pear cut diamond has a teardrop shape with one rounded end and one pointed end. It is a hybrid of the round brilliant cut and the marquise cut and has excellent brilliance and fire. The pear cut is a popular choice for those who want a unique-looking diamond.
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Cushion Cut
The cushion cut diamond has a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners. It has large facets that enhance its brilliance and fire, and its shape gives it a vintage look. The cushion cut is seeing a resurgence in popularity due to its unique character.
Which Diamond Shape Is The Most Expensive?
While there are several different diamond shapes available in the market, the round brilliant cut diamond remains the most expensive. As mentioned earlier, this is due to its popularity and the amount of raw material that is lost during the cutting process. The round brilliant cut diamond has been the most popular diamond shape for decades and remains the go-to choice for engagement rings and other diamond jewelry.
Conclusion
In conclusion, when it comes to diamond shapes, the round brilliant cut diamond is the most expensive. However, this does not mean that other diamond shapes are not valuable or beautiful in their way. The value of a diamond is determined by several factors, including carat weight, color, clarity, and cut, and each shape has its unique characteristics that appeal to different people. Ultimately, the best diamond shape is the one that you love and that fits within your budget.
