As you consider what kind of engagement ring you’d love, it’s easy to get dazzled by the many kinds of sparkling stones. By knowing what the different diamond shapes are, you have a better chance of explaining your likes and dislikes well to a jeweler and to your sweetheart, who will probably be picking out your next bright bauble himself.
Princess Cut

One of the most popular cuts, a princess diamond has a square “head,” which throws light off the many side facets around it. It’s also one of the least “wasteful” shapes of diamond engagement rings because less of the diamond needs to be cut to get the desired square, rather than a circular design.
Heart
More people than ever are choosing to make their larger diamonds heart-shaped. Set prominently, these stones make it unmistakable that the ring was given to you by someone you love. They are a great choice if you go with a pale pink colored diamond, as well! Cushion Cut

If you imagine a rounded-edge rectangle with many many small facets along the sides, you’ll have a good idea of what a cushion-cut diamond looks like. This cut is traditional and has been done for hundreds of years, which means that it’s unusually nice if you want a vintage look to your engagement ring. With an extra row of facets, though, it can become quite modern looking and throw dazzling light in all directions.
Pear
This teardrop-shaped diamond has been growing in popularity. Delicate and feminine,...