For over a century, the cushion cut for engagement rings has been a really popular choice. The cushion cut diamond resembles an overstuffed seat cushion – either square or rectangular, with rounded corners. This unique shape has a classic and romantic appeal. It is also called candlelight diamond since the cut was done specifically to enhance the diamond’s clarity by candlelight. If you have decided you want this cut, buy one with a high clarity rating. Otherwise, the flaws will be extremely obvious.
A brief history: this cut was perfected after a great deal of trial and error in the 18th century. The idea of a candle powered light that didn’t do justice to reflect off a diamond’s brilliance turned off many prospective buyers. Utilizing hours and hours and hours of practice, the diamond jewelers finally figured out how to make a simple cut but still elegant and glamorous.
A quick guide in buying cushion cut engagement rings:
- Also known as antique cut – it is a faceted stone with a rounded square shape
- Have a budget for the stone before buying. Consider if you can stretch it up a bit if needed or if you want to stick to what you can afford.
- Diamonds display variety – from being to colorless to tinged with blue, brown, pink, gray, green, red, and yellow. The fancier the colors, the more expensive your ring will be. However, for white diamonds, the less color the better.
- The unit weight of a diamond is measured in carats where 1 carat is equivalent to 20 grams. The bigger and heavier the stone, the more valuable.
- Consider buying a well cut stone. Cut refers to symmetry, finish, polish, and proportion of the engagement ring. The diamond’s brilliance will be more magnificent if the stone has been well cut.
- Finally, clarity. The clearer the diamond the higher the price. It is better to buy a smaller diamond with a higher clarity than a bigger stone with a lower clarity rating.
Is it difficult nowadays to find a cushion cut engagement ring. For couples who really want this type, they have the option of finding a loose stone and have it set on an appropriate mounting; or they can seek out vintage cushion cuts through family heirlooms, estate sales, and pawn shops.
Another things to figure out is the metal to be used for the ring. Common choices are th 14 or 18 carat white or yellow gold, or platinum. Platinum is the most expensive while white and yellow gold about the same price for a given carat.
The cushion cut diamond engagement ring exudes beauty and brilliance that are a sophisticated choice to flashier designs, yet they still symbolize the beauty, romance, and intense love a man and woman has for one another.
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