Cushion Cut Diamond Rings

Cushion cut diamonds are a perfect blend of classic elegance and modern sophistication. Known for their soft, pillow-like shape and vintage appeal, these diamonds have become a top choice for brides seeking something timeless yet unique. Whether you’re considering a cushion cut engagement ring or exploring other jewellery options, cushion diamonds offer an extraordinary sparkle and charm that captivates at first glance.

If you’re drawn to a diamond that combines romance, brilliance, and versatility, a cushion cut diamond ring might just be the perfect match for your love story.

What is a Cushion Cut Diamond?

A cushion cut diamond features a square or rectangular shape with softly rounded corners, resembling a pillow, hence the name. This cut is celebrated for its vintage charm, originating in the 19th century, but has evolved with modern cutting techniques to deliver exceptional brilliance. The cushion cut combines 58 to 64 facets, giving it a stunning sparkle that stands out in any setting. This makes it a popular choice not only for cushion cut engagement rings but also for various other fine jewellery pieces like cushion cut gemstone rings.

Unlike other shapes like the round or princess cut, the cushion cut has a soft, romantic allure that suits both traditional and modern tastes. Whether you’re opting for a cushion diamond ring or exploring unique customization options, the cushion cut offers unmatched beauty and versatility.

The Unique Appeal of Cushion Cut Diamonds

What sets cushion cut diamonds apart is their ability to reflect light in a way that creates a soft, romantic glow. The faceting pattern enhances the diamond’s fire, making it sparkle brilliantly from every angle. Additionally, cushion cut diamonds come in two variations: square and elongated. The square cushion cut offers a balanced, classic look, while the elongated cushion cut diamond creates a more slender appearance that’s perfect for those seeking a modern twist.

The cushion cut’s versatility allows it to be set in a wide range of jewellery designs, from classic solitaires to intricate halos. This flexibility makes it an ideal choice for brides who want a diamond that is as unique as their personal style.

Choosing the Perfect Cushion Cut Diamond: The 4 Cs

Selecting the right cushion cut diamond involves understanding the 4 Cs: Cut, Carat, Clarity, and Color. These factors significantly affect the diamond’s overall appearance and value. For a detailed guide on how to choose, check out our guide on choosing a diamond.

Cut Quality

The cut quality is crucial for maximising the brilliance of a cushion cut diamond. While the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) doesn’t assign a specific cut grade to cushion diamonds, it’s essential to assess several key proportions that significantly influence the diamond’s sparkle. Understanding these factors will help you choose a diamond that shines brilliantly.

• Depth Percentage: Aim for a depth percentage between 60% and 70%. This range ensures optimal light reflection and brilliance while avoiding a diamond that appears too deep or shallow.
• Table Percentage: A table percentage of 60% to 70% is ideal. This measurement refers to the size of the flat top surface of the diamond relative to its overall diameter. A well-proportioned table enhances the diamond’s overall symmetry and light performance.
• Symmetry: Look for high symmetry in the diamond’s facets, which is essential for ensuring that the light reflects evenly. Symmetry is graded from Excellent to Poor, so selecting a diamond with at least Good symmetry will enhance its brilliance.
• Culet: The culet refers to the small facet at the bottom of the diamond. For a cushion cut, a very small or absent culet is preferred. This helps maintain the diamond’s crisp appearance and prevents light leakage, maximising its sparkle.
• Girdle: The girdle is the thin band around the diamond, separating the crown from the pavilion. For cushion cuts, opt for a girdle that is thin to slightly thick. This balance provides durability without compromising the diamond’s beauty.
• Length-to-Width Ratio: The length-to-width ratio affects the shape of the cushion cut. For a traditional square cushion cut, aim for a ratio between 1.00 and 1.05. If you prefer a more elongated look, a ratio of 1.10 to 1.20 will achieve that while still maintaining the signature style of the cushion cut.

Assessing these proportions is essential to achieving the sparkle and fire that cushion cut diamonds are known for. For further insights into the intricacies of diamond cuts, feel free to explore our guide on Cut.

Carat Weight

Carat weight influences both the size and price of the diamond. Cushion cut engagement rings are available in a range of carat sizes, from 0.5 carat diamond rings to 4 carat cushion cut diamond rings. For more insights on selecting the right carat, see our guide on Carat.

Clarity and Color

While the cushion cut hides inclusions better than other cuts, it’s advisable to choose a clarity grade of VS2 or higher. Colour is also important, with diamonds in the D-G range offering the best brilliance. To better understand these factors, check out our guides on Clarity and Color.

Popular Settings for Cushion Cut Diamond Rings

The cushion cut’s adaptability shines in a variety of settings. Here are some popular styles for cushion cut diamond engagement rings:

• Classic Solitaire: A simple and timeless choice, allowing the beauty of the diamond to take centre stage.

• Halo Setting: Surrounding the centre stone with smaller diamonds enhances the sparkle and adds a touch of opulence.

• Three-Stone Setting: Symbolising the past, present, and future, this setting offers both sentimental value and extra brilliance.

At Diamond Ateliers, we specialise in custom designs to create your perfect cushion cut engagement ring. Whether you want a minimalist design or a more elaborate setting, our expert jewellers can bring your vision to life. To explore more options, see our ring customisation guide.

We work directly with manufacturers to ensure the highest quality, and because of this direct relationship, we can transfer savings to the customer without compromising on excellence.

Style and Finger Suitability for Cushion Cut Diamonds

One of the many reasons to love the cushion cut is its adaptability to different hand and finger shapes.

• Square cushion cut diamonds suit slender, longer fingers, creating a balanced and flattering appearance.
• Elongated cushion cuts work wonders for those with shorter or wider fingers, giving the illusion of length.

Prominent figures who favour the cushion cut include celebrities like Katherine Heigl, who sports a stunning cushion cut diamond engagement ring, and Mandy Moore, whose unique cushion diamond ring beautifully reflects her personal style. These examples illustrate the cut’s popularity among those looking for a sophisticated yet modern look.

Whether you envision a sleek and minimalist design or something more intricate, a cushion cut engagement ring can be tailored to your taste and finger shape.

Caring for Your Cushion Cut Diamond

To keep your cushion cut diamond ring sparkling for years, it’s essential to take proper care.

• Cleaning: Regularly clean your ring with warm water and mild soap. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the diamond or setting.
• Storage: Store your ring separately from other jewellery to prevent scratches.
• Professional Inspections: Schedule regular cleanings and inspections with a jeweller to ensure your diamond stays secure in its setting.

Discover the Beauty of Cushion Cut Diamond Rings

With their timeless elegance and versatile style, cushion cut diamonds remain a popular choice for brides seeking a unique, romantic look. Whether you’re drawn to the classic solitaire or prefer something more intricate like a halo or three-stone setting, cushion cuts are a perfect reflection of love and commitment.

Explore our stunning collection of cushion cut diamond rings today and find the ring that symbolises your love story.

Still unsure? Reach out to our expert jewellers for a personalised ring consultation!