Cushion cut diamonds have a square/rectangle shape with rounded corners. These diamonds get their name from their shape, which is similar to a small cushion. Depending on the cut, they can have large bursts of light or a more sparkle.
You might be surprised when looking at two cushions of the same carat weight. You could have a diamond with a more squared shape and bright centre or a longer diamond with more subtle reflections. You want to look beyond the basic shape.
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Why Cushion Engagement Rings Have a Unique Shape
Cushion cuts are based off older diamond cut types like old mine cuts. Modern cushion cuts keep the rounded shape but have different faceting.
Unlike round brilliants, cushion cuts do not have a standardised facet pattern.
Some have larger flashes of light while others have lots of small reflections. Sometimes referred to as crushed ice.
These are not necessarily better than the other. It comes down to personal preference for what looks best.
Square or Long Cushion Engagement Rings?
Square Cushion
Even proportioned with a similar length and width.
Long Cushion
Longer shape giving the centre stone a different look.
One of the easiest ways to look at cushion diamonds is by their length to width ratio.
A ratio close to 1.00 will give a square shape. Around 1.10 will give you a slightly longer shape and anything higher will give you a more obvious rectangle.
These are just proportions.
If you like the look of an oval diamond but want something with more defined edges, a long cushion could be a good choice. If you want something more balanced, a square cushion would be ideal if you have a classic solitaire.
Its always worth seeing these in person. Just because you know the measurements doesn’t mean you will know how they will look.
Lab Diamonds and Cushion Cuts
Lab diamonds are becoming more popular when shopping for your engagement ring. They have the same basic chemical make up and crystalline structure but are of a different origin.
Lab grown cushions can help give you an idea of how different carats, colours and proportions look.
Novita Diamonds sell lab diamond jewellery so this is a good place to start.
When looking at lab diamonds, you want to make sure you check out how they look. While you will have a grading report from the lab, you want to make sure the diamond has a bright centre, even reflections and not too much darkness.
Choosing the Right Setting
The setting will affect how secure the diamond is. It can also change how the diamond looks.
Solitaire settings will highlight the cushion shape and faceting. Four prong settings are very popular but you want to ensure the prongs are the right design to protect the rounded corners.
Halo settings will surround the centre diamond with smaller stones. This can make the diamond look larger without adding extra carats to the centre.
Three stone rings can also be a good option. Adding side stones can compliment the cushion shape but you want to ensure the proportions all work together.
If you are looking for something to wear everyday, you might want to look at how high the setting is. A high setting may snag onto your clothes.
What Doesn’t Matter as Much – Carat
Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. Two cushions of one carat can look different as they will have different proportions and depths.
A deeper stone may have more weight underneath the setting so will look smaller.
Some cushion cut diamonds will show more of their body colour. Depending on where the inclusions are and the faceting, they may be more obvious.
It is a good idea to look at the measurements (in mm), grading and clear videos.
Novita Diamonds can be a good place to look at cushion engagement rings but it is more useful to compare the stones.
Small Things to Consider
Your cushion engagement ring should be comfortable. The width of the band, type of metal and how high the centre is can all effect how it looks.
Platinum and gold are popular choices. Yellow, white and rose gold will all give a different contrast.
Ask if it can be resized, how to clean the setting and if there is any maintenance required.
It is also a good idea to check the return policy of the seller, grading and warranty.
When comparing Novita Diamonds or another jeweller, look at the whole ring. The proportions should all work together.
Depending on the design, your cushion may look quite delicate or chunky. Often taking your time to look at the details can be more useful than going for the biggest diamond within your budget.
