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 weight. Cushion face-up size depends heavily on depth and whether the stone is squarish or elongated—always compare millimeter dimensions at the same carat before calling one a better deal.

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, especially under a large table on open cushions.

Facet style changes color perception: chunky brilliant cushions can hide tint better than open, larger-facet antiques. Compare color grades inside the same facet family. Soft corners mean fewer chip worries than princess points, so budget can shift toward cut personality and color you actually prefer.

What to inspect in 360° video

• Facet personality: distinct broad flashes versus crushed-ice sparkle—pick one intentionally.
• Whether the center stays lively or goes dark/windowed while rotating.
• Outline: soft square versus elongated pillow, and corner rounding consistency.
• Central inclusions that survive at normal viewing distance.
• Depth cues—stones that look small for carat despite pretty grading.

Best buying strategy

1. Decide brilliant vs crushed-ice (or antique-style) look before filtering grades.
2. Choose square vs elongated L/W and compare only within that outline family.
3. Use mm dimensions to avoid deep cushions that under-spread.
4. Relax clarity only after video proves the pattern hides inclusions you care about.
5. Shortlist three cushions with the same facet style and similar face-up size.

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.