What Are Some Diamond Cuts You Didn't Know About?

Diamonds have always been timeless symbols of love, elegance, and luxury. While most people are familiar with popular cuts like the round brilliant or princess cut, there’s a world of lesser-known diamond shapes offering unique styles and characteristics. These cuts can be just as stunning — and in many cases, even more distinctive. If you’re looking for something special, here are some diamond cuts that may not be on your radar but offer a truly unique appeal.

1. Marquise Cut

The marquise cut features an elongated shape with pointed ends, often likened to a football or boat hull. Named after the Marquise de Pompadour, this cut maximizes carat weight, making the diamond appear larger than other shapes of the same carat. Its elegant, elongated design offers a dramatic, vintage-inspired look, perfect for those wanting something unique yet timeless. It also creates the illusion of longer, slimmer hands when worn.

2. Heart Cut

The heart-shaped diamond is a classic symbol of love and affection, often chosen for engagement rings to emphasize romance. Essentially a pear-shaped diamond with a cleft at the top, the heart cut is perfect for those seeking a sentimental ring. Its unmistakably unique shape offers a playful, elegant feel that stands out from more traditional cuts, making it a memorable choice for those who want a romantic, symbolic gesture.

3. Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut is a square-shaped emerald cut, with step facets and a high crown, developed by the Asscher family in the early 20th century. Known for its vintage appeal and Art Deco influence, it features a unique “hall of mirrors” effect, where depth is visible from specific angles, creating mesmerizing flashes of light. Ideal for those who appreciate sophistication and the charm of vintage styles, it’s less common than the emerald cut and offers a uniquely stylish option.

4. Trillion Cut

A trillion cut diamond is triangular with three sides, often featuring sharp or rounded edges. The cut maximizes brilliance with a unique facet pattern, enhancing sparkle. It’s a bold choice, making a statement when used as a center stone or side stone in engagement rings. Its geometric design gives it a modern, edgy vibe that sets it apart from traditional round or square diamonds.

5. Baguette Cut

The baguette cut is a rectangular diamond with straight, parallel facets, known for its clean lines and sleek, minimalist appeal. Often used as an accent stone or in multi-stone rings, it can also be a striking center stone. Its long, elegant lines offer a sophisticated, modern look and add vintage flair when paired with other Art Deco-style cuts, making it ideal for those who appreciate understated elegance.

6. Octagon Cut

The octagon cut is a lesser-known variation of the emerald cut, featuring eight sides and a more angular, geometric shape. Often used in vintage or retro-style rings, it brings a dynamic, striking effect to the classic emerald cut. The extra sides create a unique, eye-catching look, perfect for those who want a bold, modern take on vintage aesthetics.

7. Old Mine Cut

The old mine cut is a historic diamond cut that dates back to the 18th century, primarily used in the Georgian and Victorian eras. Featuring a high crown and deep pavilion, it has larger facets that give it a “chunky” appearance and vintage charm. This shape has made a comeback as vintage-inspired jewelry becomes more popular, offering a romantic, antique look with a unique, hand-cut quality that gives each diamond its own personality.

8. Kite Cut

The kite cut is an unconventional diamond shape with four sides, resembling a diamond-shaped kite. It has an elongated silhouette and pointed corners, giving it a modern, artistic vibe. Though not widely popular, it is perfect for those seeking something bold and distinctive, ideal for creating vintage or avant-garde styles in engagement rings.