Lab grown diamonds have rapidly gained popularity as a sustainable, ethical, and affordable alternative to natural diamonds. While they offer the same brilliance and durability, one of the most exciting aspects is the wide range of diamond shapes available. Whether you prefer classic elegance or modern flair, there’s a shape to match your taste.
In this article, we’ll explore the most popular lab grown diamond shapes, what each shape symbolizes, and how to choose the one that fits your personal style and budget.
Why Diamond Shape Matters
Diamond shape refers to the physical outline of the stone when viewed from above. It significantly influences the diamond’s:
- Brilliance and sparkle
- Visual size
- Style and personality
- Compatibility with various settings
Choosing the right shape is just as important as the 4Cs (cut, clarity, color, carat), especially if you’re investing in an engagement ring or heirloom piece.
1. Round Brilliant Cut
The Classic Favorite
The round brilliant cut is by far the most popular diamond shape, representing over 50% of all diamonds sold. This cut is engineered for maximum sparkle, with 58 carefully angled facets that optimize light reflection.
Best For:
Traditionalists, timeless romantics, and anyone who wants the most brilliance.
Pros:
- Maximum sparkle
- Versatile for any setting
- Hides flaws well
2. Princess Cut
Modern Elegance
The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond with sharp corners and intense brilliance. It’s the most popular fancy shape and offers a contemporary twist on the round cut.
Best For:
Modern brides and those who love geometric aesthetics.
Pros:
- High brilliance
- Less expensive per carat than round
- Stylish, modern appearance
3. Oval Cut
Graceful and Elongating
The oval cut offers similar brilliance to a round diamond but with an elongated shape that can make fingers look longer and slimmer.
Best For:
Those seeking a unique yet elegant look.
Pros:
- Appears larger than a round of the same carat
- Elegant elongation
- Great for solitaires and vintage settings
4. Cushion Cut
Soft and Romantic
Cushion-cut diamonds have rounded corners and a pillow-like shape. This shape has vintage charm and excellent light dispersion.
Best For:
Vintage lovers and romantics who want a soft, timeless look.
Pros:
- Classic and cozy
- Great brilliance
- Vintage feel
5. Emerald Cut
Sophisticated and Sleek
With its long lines and large facets, lab created diamonds, the emerald cut highlights clarity over sparkle. It offers a “hall-of-mirrors” effect with understated shine.
Best For:
Minimalists and those who favor sophistication.
Pros:
- Elegant, clean lines
- Less expensive per carat
- Looks larger than most cuts
6. Radiant Cut
Sparkle Meets Structure
The radiant cut combines the brilliance of the round and the geometry of the emerald cut, resulting in a stunning and bright rectangular shape.
Best For:
Those who want brilliance with a twist.
Pros:
- Excellent sparkle
- Edgy and elegant
- Hides inclusions well
7. Pear Shape
Feminine and Distinct
The pear shape is a teardrop cut that merges the round and marquise shapes. It’s ideal for creating a unique, elongating silhouette.
Best For:
Bold, fashion-forward individuals.
Pros:
- Unique and eye-catching
- Elongates fingers
- Often appears larger than it is
8. Marquise Cut
Regal and Rare
Marquise diamonds are boat-shaped with pointed ends, often associated with vintage royalty and opulence.
Best For:
Lovers of bold, vintage, and dramatic styles.
Pros:
- Maximizes carat size
- Very rare and unique
- Elongating effect
9. Asscher Cut
Deco Drama
Asscher cuts feature step facets like emerald cuts but are square-shaped with clipped corners. This vintage cut is a favorite among art deco fans.
Best For:
Lovers of retro glamor and geometric symmetry.
Pros:
- Distinctive and refined
- Deep sparkle
- Unique symmetry
10. Heart Shape
Symbol of Romance
The heart-shaped diamond is the ultimate symbol of love. Though less common, it’s an expressive and deeply personal shape.
Best For:
Hopeless romantics and those who want their jewelry to tell a story.
Pros:
- Highly symbolic
- Eye-catching and memorable
- Great in pendants and rings
Lab Grown vs. Natural: Shape Availability
The good news? All the popular shapes available in natural diamonds are also available in lab grown diamonds. In fact, because of technological precision, lab grown diamonds often have better symmetry and more ideal proportions, regardless of shape.
How to Choose the Right Shape for You
Here are a few key considerations:
- Personal Style: Go for round or oval if you love classic styles; try emerald or asscher for minimalist chic.
- Finger Shape: Oval, pear, or marquise cuts can elongate shorter fingers.
- Budget: Shapes like cushion, radiant, and princess cuts typically cost less per carat.
- Setting Compatibility: Some shapes suit solitaires; others work best with halo or three-stone settings.
Final Thoughts
Lab grown diamonds offer endless possibilities—not just in ethical sourcing and value but also in shape diversity. Whether you gravitate toward a round brilliant for tradition or a radiant cut for sparkle with structure, there’s a perfect shape for every personality.
Choosing a shape is the first step in crafting a meaningful, beautiful piece that reflects who you are. And thanks to modern technology, your dream diamond—whatever its shape—can now be both stunning and sustainable.
