Round Brilliant: The Classic Sparkler

• Biggest Strength: Maximum sparkle

• Things to Know:

  • Best light performance (because of its 58 perfect facets)

  • Hides color and inclusions very well

  • Costs more per carat compared to fancy shapes (because more rough is cut away)

✅ Best if you want timeless beauty and the most brilliance for your budget.

Oval: Looks Larger Than It Is

• Biggest Strength: Looks bigger than a round of the same carat

• Things to Know:

  • Stretches the finger beautifully (flattering shape)

  • Can show a "bow-tie" shadow if not well-cut

  • Hides inclusions better than emerald or radiant cuts

✅ Best if you want something elegant and elongated — and a bigger look for your carat weight.

Cushion Cut: Soft, Romantic Sparkle

• Biggest Strength: Pillowy, soft look with deep sparkle

• Things to Know:

  • A good cushion hides inclusions well

  • Slightly smaller face-up size compared to oval or radiant

  • Can come in "chunky" (antique style) or "crushed ice" (more glittery) styles

✅ Best if you love a soft, vintage feel and deep flashes of light.

Emerald Cut: Elegant and Transparent

• Biggest Strength: Classic, sophisticated style

• Things to Know:

  • Step-cut facets emphasize clarity — inclusions are easier to spot

  • Shows body color more easily (stick to higher color and clarity grades)

  • Looks large for its carat weight (elongated face)

✅ Best if you love understated glamour and a clean, architectural look.

Radiant Cut: The Best of Both Worlds

• Biggest Strength: Brilliant sparkle with a rectangular or square outline

• Things to Know:

  • More brilliance than emerald cut

  • Hides inclusions fairly well

  • Slightly smaller-looking than oval but still elongating

✅ Best if you want major sparkle without going fully traditional.

Pear: Playful and Unique

• Biggest Strength: Bold, flattering, elongating shape

• Things to Know:

  • Hides inclusions well at the pointed tip

  • Prone to "bow-tie" effect if not well-cut

  • The point can be delicate — a protective setting is a must

✅ Best if you want something unique, flirty, and flattering.

Marquise: Maximum Size Appearance

• Biggest Strength: Looks huge for its carat weight

• Things to Know:

  • Very finger-flattering (elongates dramatically)

  • Shows some bow-tie darkness in lower-quality cuts

  • Needs strong setting protection at the tips

✅ Best if you want major presence without paying for extra carat weight.

Princess Cut: Modern Sparkle

• Biggest Strength: Sharp, fiery brilliance in a square

• Things to Know:

  • Excellent brilliance (almost like round)

  • Corners can chip easily — good setting design is crucial

  • Slightly less expensive per carat than round

✅ Best if you want a crisp, modern look with high sparkle.

Quick Shape Comparison Cheat Sheet:

Final Thoughts

Choosing a diamond shape isn’t just about what looks pretty — it’s about understanding how each cut behaves, shines, and lasts over time.
At McKay Diamonds, we’ll guide you through the options based on what matters most to you — so you get a ring that’s stunning and right for you.

Not sure which shape is right for you?
Visit McKay Diamonds and see the most popular shapes in person — no pressure, just expert advice and beautiful options.