What is the difference between a cushion cut and cushion modified brilliant?

A classic cushion cut has larger facets that produce broad, dramatic flashes with a vintage character. A cushion modified brilliant has an extra row of facets creating finer, more numerous flashes closer to a round brilliant. Neither is better — the choice depends on whether you prefer vintage-style sparkle or brighter, more even brilliance.

Are cushion cut diamonds cheaper than round diamonds?

Yes. Cushion cut diamonds typically cost 20–35% less than comparable round brilliants of the same carat weight and quality. This makes cushions an excellent option for buyers who want a larger stone within their budget.

What length-to-width ratio is best for a cushion cut diamond?

A ratio of 1.00–1.05 gives a square cushion. A ratio of 1.10–1.20 gives a slightly rectangular, pillow-like shape. Above 1.20 is an elongated cushion that flatters the finger like an oval. The best ratio depends on personal preference and hand shape.

What setting is best for a cushion cut diamond?

Halo settings are the most popular for cushion diamonds, making the centre stone appear significantly larger. Solitaire four-prong settings show off the shape cleanly. Three-stone settings with round or pear side stones create a balanced composition. Cushions also suit vintage and art deco-inspired settings with milgrain or filigree detailing.

Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Rings: Complete Guide

The cushion cut is one of the oldest diamond shapes still in widespread use — a descendant of the old mine cut that was the dominant diamond shape for most of the 19th century. Today it's one of the most popular fancy shapes, valued for its soft, romantic outline and the warm, broad sparkle it produces.

What Is a Cushion Cut Diamond?

A cushion cut diamond has a square or rectangular outline with distinctly rounded corners — resembling a pillow, which is where the name comes from. Unlike the crisp edges of a princess cut or the hard lines of an emerald, the cushion's softened corners give it an approachable, vintage quality that suits a wide range of settings.

Cushion cuts come in two main varieties:

Classic cushion — larger, chunkier facets that produce broad, dramatic flashes of light. More vintage-feeling, with depth and character that rewards close viewing.
Cushion modified brilliant — an extra row of facets produces finer, more numerous flashes closer to a round brilliant. Brighter under most lighting conditions.

Neither is objectively better — the choice depends on whether you prefer the bold, old-world flash of the classic or the more even, contemporary brilliance of the modified.

Cushion Cut Length-to-Width Ratios

1.00–1.05 — square cushion; compact and balanced
1.10–1.20 — slightly elongated; pillow-like outline
1.20+ — elongated cushion; finger-flattering, increasingly popular

Cushion Cut vs Round Brilliant

Cushion cuts offer a softer, more romantic aesthetic than round brilliants, and typically cost 20–35% less for the same carat weight and quality grade. Round brilliants outperform cushions in raw brilliance — the cushion's larger facets create fewer, wider flashes rather than intense, continuous scintillation.

If you're drawn to vintage or antique-inspired jewellery, the cushion cut is almost always the right choice. If maximum brilliance is the priority, the round brilliant is hard to beat.

Best Settings for Cushion Cut Diamonds

Halo — the most popular setting for cushions. A ring of smaller diamonds makes the centre stone look dramatically larger.
Solitaire — a clean four-prong basket shows off the shape with no distraction.
Three-stone — cushion centre with round or pear side stones creates a timeless composition.
Vintage and art deco — cushions suit milgrain detailing, filigree work, and channel-set bands particularly well.

Cushion Cut Clarity and Colour

Cushion cuts are more forgiving of lower clarity grades than step cuts. VS2 or SI1 is usually eye-clean. Classic cushions with larger facets can show inclusions more visibly than modified brilliants — consider VS2 if choosing the classic variety.

For colour, cushions tend to retain warmth more than round brilliants. G or H colour in white gold or platinum reads clean to the eye. In yellow or rose gold, an H or I can look intentionally warm and complementary.

Custom Cushion Cut Engagement Rings in Singapore

At Diamond Ateliers, we design custom cushion cut engagement rings across all proportions and settings — from simple solitaires to elaborate halo and vintage-inspired pieces. Every diamond is GIA or IGI certified. Book a consultation to explore cushion diamonds currently available in your preferred carat and quality range.

Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Rings: A Complete Guide