Diamonds 101: The Princess Cut
Princess cut diamonds are true squares; they are the only popularized shape with pointed corners whereas most other shapes have rounded corners or cut corners. Is this royal shape the center stone for you?
A Brief History and Popularity of the Princess Cut
As diamond cutters started to understand light performance in the 20th century, diamond cuts started to evolve. What started as a French Cut, slowly became a Square Modified Brilliant Cut, or what we now know as the Princess Cut.
Making its debut in the 1960s in the United States, this square cut with pointed corners was crafted to maximize the brilliance of the diamond, combining the sparkle of a round brilliant cut with a contemporary, angular shape.
Although not instantly embraced, this cut steadily gained popularity for its unique blend of classic and modern aesthetics. The Princess cut was very popular in the 80s and 90s, making a short resurgence in popularity in the early 2000s.
What to Look For
When looking at any diamond, buyers should educate themselves on the 4 C’s: Color, Cut, Clarity, and Carat. The 4 C’s specific to princess cuts play pivotal roles in determining its brilliance and overall aesthetic appeal.
Cut
Princesses are characterized by their distinct square shape, featuring sharp corners and a modern, angular silhouette. The hallmark of this cut lies in its precise faceting, often revealing chevrons or X patterns on the diamond’s surface.
Color
Color is important for most when choosing their center stone. Because of how they are cut, princesses are great at hiding color. We can safely recommend opting for J color or above for a nice, white face-up appearance.
Clarity
Similarly, princesses cuts are great at hiding inclusions. We recommend not opting for a diamond lower than an eye-clean SI2 clarity to ensure no visible imperfections. With their brilliant faceting, princesses often mask inclusions very well.
Princess Cut Ratios
Since princesses are meant to be perfect squares, ideally their ratio would be 1:1. However, there are some princesses with ratios of up to 1.05:1, although these are rare and hard to find.
Princess vs. Other Shapes
Princess cuts might be brilliant cut diamonds like cushion cuts and radiants, but what sets them apart?
Princess vs. Cushion
Princesses and cushion cuts are both square modern brilliant cuts. However, cushion cut diamonds have rounded edges where princesses are the only shape with sharp corners.
Additionally, cushion cuts can have ratios up to 1:1.2 for a more rectangular/elongated look where princesses are generally only square.
Princess vs. Radiant
Unlike princesses and cushions, radiants have cut corners. Like cushion cuts, radiant cuts are popular in their elongated form with optimal ratios of 1.15:1 all the way up to 1.40:1.
Furthermore, princesses are a modern brilliant cut with 57 facets. While radiants may look similar, radiant cuts are one of the most brilliant cuts with 70 facets.
Popular Lauren B Princess Cut Rings + Jewelry
3.14 carat Princess Cut Lab Diamond Two-Tone Signature Wrap Ring
Pear and Princess Cut Diamond Duo Engagement Ring
1.77 Carat Princess Cut Diamond Eternity Band
Bezel Set Princess Cut Diamond Studs
Is a Princess the Cut for You?
Whether you ultimately decide to opt for this regal center stone, Lauren B can design the engagement ring of your dreams, within your budget. Browse our Instagram and Pinterest for inspiration before meeting with one of our dedicated design consultants for your one-on-one appointment.
