Diamond shape guide

Cushion Diamond Guide

Soft corners, broad personality and many facet styles.

What makes a good cushion diamond?

Some cushions show larger, distinct flashes; others show a “crushed ice” texture with many small reflections. Neither is universally better—the key is choosing the look intentionally.

Proportions and face-up size

Length-to-width ratio separates squarer cushions from elongated cushions. Depth and facet pattern can affect face-up spread, so compare millimeter dimensions at similar carat weights.

Carat is a weight measurement. Use the listed millimeter dimensions to understand how large the diamond will look from the top and to detect stones that carry more of their weight in depth.

Color and clarity

The rounded corners are generally setting-friendly, while brilliant-style faceting can help disguise inclusions. Still inspect dark or centrally located inclusions.

For color, compare nearby grades in the same shape and approximate size. The setting metal and the amount of body color your own eye notices are more practical than chasing a grade for status alone.

What to inspect in 360° video

• Whether the diamond stays lively as it rotates rather than going dark for long periods.
• Whether the contrast pattern looks balanced.
• Any central or dark inclusions that remain obvious at normal scale.
• Outline symmetry and whether the shape looks pleasing from straight on.
• For fancy shapes, any bow tie, windowing or uneven brightness.

Best buying strategy

1. Set a carat and millimeter-size range.
2. Choose a color range appropriate to the setting.
3. Choose a clarity range, then inspect the actual inclusions.
4. Reject stones with weak visual performance even if the paper grades look attractive.
5. Compare at least three similar candidates side-by-side.

Educational reference: GIA diamond-quality and shape guidance. Fancy-shape appearance varies materially from stone to stone, so ratios and measurements are screening tools rather than guarantees.