Guides · No. 02
By Zac Ireland · 5 min read
The short answer
While every diamond shares the same brilliance at its core, shape is what gives it character. Understanding the differences between them allows you to move beyond simply choosing a diamond, and toward selecting something that feels entirely your own.
01 · Timeless, Balanced, Unmistakable
The round brilliant is the most classic of all diamond shapes, known for its exceptional fire and symmetry. Designed to maximise light performance, it offers the highest level of brilliance of any cut.
Its appeal lies in its balance. Nothing feels exaggerated, nothing feels understated. It is simply perfect in proportion.
For those drawn to simplicity and enduring elegance, the round brilliant remains unmatched.
02 · Soft, Elongated, Effortlessly Elegant
The oval diamond offers a more elongated silhouette, creating a graceful line across the finger. It reflects light in a similar way to the round brilliant, while appearing larger due to its stretched proportions.
There is a softness to the oval. It feels fluid, feminine, and quietly distinctive.
For those wanting something timeless with a subtle point of difference, the oval is often the natural choice.
03 · Clean Lines, Quiet Confidence
The emerald cut is defined by its step-cut facets and elongated shape. Rather than brilliance, it offers clarity. Light moves across the stone in broad flashes, creating a more understated, architectural beauty.
This is a shape that reveals everything. Precision matters. Quality matters.
For those drawn to refinement and structure, the emerald cut feels both modern and timeless.
04 · Romantic, Soft, Light-Filled
The cushion cut blends a square or rectangular shape with softly rounded corners. It carries a vintage sensibility, while still feeling relevant today.
Its facets create a gentle, diffused sparkle, less sharp than a round, more romantic in its glow.
There is a warmth to cushion diamonds. They feel considered, expressive, and full of character.
“Some feel timeless and refined, others soft and romantic, others bold and architectural. The right shape is not simply chosen, it is recognised.”
05 · Distinctive, Elegant, Directional
The pear shape combines the brilliance of a round with the elongation of a marquise, tapering to a single point.
It creates movement. A sense of direction. A silhouette that feels slightly unexpected.
Worn with the point facing upward or downward, it offers versatility while always remaining distinctive.
06 · Bold, Elongated, Striking
The marquise diamond is long and narrow, with pointed ends that create an unmistakable presence. It maximises perceived size, often appearing larger than other shapes of the same carat weight.
There is confidence in the marquise. It does not try to be subtle.
For those wanting something rare and visually impactful, this shape offers a striking alternative.
07 · Structured Brilliance, Modern Edge
The radiant cut combines the clean outline of an emerald with the brilliance of a round. It offers sharp edges softened by intense sparkle.
This balance gives it a modern feel. Structured, yet vibrant.
For those who want both clarity and fire, the radiant sits perfectly between two worlds.
08 · Sharp, Contemporary, Light-Focused
The princess cut is a square shape defined by its sharp corners and brilliant faceting. It offers a modern alternative to the round, with strong lines and high sparkle.
There is precision in its geometry. A sense of intention.
For those drawn to contemporary design with presence, the princess cut remains a compelling choice.
09 · Finding your shape
There is no single answer.
Some are drawn to the balance of a round, others to the softness of an oval, others to the quiet structure of an emerald. The right shape is not simply chosen, it is recognised.
It is the one that feels natural the moment you see it.
If you are still exploring, browse our engagement ring collection to see each shape rendered in real designs — it can bring clarity in a way words cannot.
10
Our approach
At Orlaithea, every diamond is selected with the final piece in mind. We focus exclusively on lab grown diamonds, allowing us to prioritise proportion, brilliance, and overall presence without compromise.
Each stone is viewed in person, ensuring it performs exactly as it should before it is ever set. By working closely with cutting and polishing houses, we maintain a consistent standard across every shape.
Keep reading
Every Orlaithea ring is hand-crafted around a diamond you've seen, held, and chosen yourself.