Choosing the perfect lab grown diamond jewelry for daily wear or a special occasion, the shape of the diamond plays an important role in determining its value and overall appeal. From the classic round brilliant cut to the modern princess cut and the elegant emerald cut, each diamond shape has its own unique characteristics and price points. In this article, we’ll explain why diamond shape matters in determining value and how you can make informed decisions when selecting lab grown diamond rings and jewelry. If you’re looking for a timeless solitaire ring, stylish stud earrings, or a statement necklace, continue with us, and you will understand the impact of diamond shape on price and value. It will help you find the perfect piece that fits your style and budget.
Why Are Round Diamonds the Most Expensive?
Round diamonds are the most expensive cut for several compelling reasons, each contributing to their dominance in both popularity and price.
Optimal Brilliance and Fire
A round diamond is engineered for maximum sparkle. It’s cut with precision to allow light to enter and reflect back out in the most efficient way, meaning more brilliance (white light reflection) and fire (color dispersion). The meticulous arrangement of the round cut’s 58 facets serves as a light show par excellence.
High Demand
- Desirability: Round diamonds have been the quintessential choice for engagement rings and significant jewelry pieces for generations. Their timeless appeal ensures a consistent demand, which naturally steers prices upward.Learn about the meanings of different rings.
- Versatility: These gems pair seamlessly with various settings and styles, making them the go-to choice for daily wear and special occasions alike. Their universality in design compatibility solidifies their status as the desired cut.
Cutting and Rough Diamond Waste
- Material Loss: When crafting a round diamond from a rough stone, more material is typically wasted compared to other shapes. The round cut’s need for depth to optimize light performance means sacrificing more carat weight to achieve the same level of beauty.
- Cutting Precision: The skill and time required to cut a round diamond to perfection are greater than for other shapes. This added labor and expertise translate into higher costs for the end product.
Market Dynamics
- Resale Value: Round diamonds tend to retain their value better than other shapes, reassuring buyers that they’re making a sound investment. This perceived resale robustness keeps prices at a premium.
- Inventory Turnover: Retailers know round diamonds sell faster, resulting in higher turnover rates. To maximize profit, sellers may increase the price due to the shape’s rapid sales cycle.
How the Cut Influences the Overall Aesthetics and Light Performance of the Diamonds
Here’s a table that includes brief explanations of the various cuts used for each diamond shape, which can help you better understand how the cut influences the overall aesthetics and light performance of the diamonds.
| Diamond Shape | Common Cuts | Cut Explanation | Applicable Occasions | Value Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Round | Brilliant | Designed to maximize light return with its 57-58 facets, enhancing brilliance and fire. | Engagement rings, everyday wear | High demand and brilliance make it universally appealing; tends to have higher resale value. |
| Princess | Brilliant, Mixed | Features sharp uncut corners and numerous sparkling facets, suitable for achieving a modern look. | Engagement rings, fashion jewelry | Modern and versatile; second in popularity after round diamonds. |
| Cushion | Modified Brilliant | Combines a square cut with rounded corners and enlarged facets to increase brilliance. | Engagement rings, vintage settings | Offers a soft look with great fire; popular for its antique feel. |
| Oval | Brilliant | Elongated form of the round cut retains similar facet pattern for extensive brilliance. | Engagement rings, elegant jewelry | An elongated shape can make the finger appear longer and slimmer. |
| Emerald | Step | Characterized by parallel step facets and trimmed corners, focusing on clarity and luster. | Statement pieces, high-end jewelry | Emphasizes clarity over brilliance; offers a sophisticated, vintage appeal. |
| Asscher | Step | Similar to emerald but typically square, highlighting clarity through a concentrated pavilion. | Vintage-inspired engagement rings | Similar to emerald but square; offers a timeless, elegant look. |
| Marquise | Brilliant | Boat-shaped with pointed ends, maximizing carat weight with its cut style to enhance sparkle. | Engagement rings, custom jewelry | Maximizes carat weight for its size; unique shape suitable for distinctive designs. |
| Radiant | Mixed | Fuses the brilliance of a round cut with the depth of an emerald cut, suitable for showcasing color. | Colorful gemstone rings, bold jewelry | Combines brilliance with a distinctive shape; good for colored diamonds. |
| Pear | Brilliant | Combines elements of both round and marquise cuts, offering a teardrop shape that maximizes shine. | Pendants, engagement rings | Teardrop shape offers a unique choice; often chosen for pendants. |
| Heart | Brilliant | Modified brilliant-cut into a heart shape, optimizing sparkle to fit a romantic symbol. | Romantic gifts, special occasions | Symbolic shape makes it a thoughtful gift; more niche compared to other shapes. |
| Trillion | Brilliant | Triangular shape with sharp edges, designed to maximize light reflection across the surface. | Side stones, contemporary designs | Modern and edgy; less commonly used as a main stone due to its unique shape. |
| Baguette | Step | Long rectangular shape with fewer facets, emphasizing transparency and a clean, linear appearance. | Accent stones, channel-set bands | Often used as accents; their linear shape complements other diamonds well. |
Why Do Different Diamond Shapes Have Different Prices?
- Cutting Process Efficiency: Some shapes, like round brilliants, result in more waste of the rough stone, while shapes like princess or emerald cuts use the rough more efficiently, impacting cost.
- Demand and Supply: High demand for certain shapes, mostly rounds, drives up their prices, whereas less popular shapes may be priced lower due to lesser demand.
- Perceived Size: Shapes such as oval or marquise can appear larger than a round cut of the same weight, often making them more sought-after and potentially pricier.
- Complexity of Cutting: The level of craftsmanship and time required to cut a shape, particularly round brilliants with their intricate faceting, can lead to higher costs compared to simpler cuts like step cuts found in emerald and asscher shapes.Explore 10 Lab-Grown Diamond Cuts.
To Find a Lab Grown Diamond That Suits Your Budget:
- Decide on the shape you prefer.
- Consider less sought-after shapes for better value.
- Opt for shapes that look larger to maximize visual impact.
- Always balance your preferred shape with the other quality factors and your budget.
Three Beautiful Shape of Lab Grown Diamonds for You
Lab Grown Diamond Round Trapezium Three Stone Ring
The elegant ring features three stunning diamonds. Mesmerizing tapered baguette diamonds are perfectly paired with a central round stone for a glamorous effect.
- Perfect for engagements, weddings, or special occasions.
- The classic round-cut diamond is sure to sparkle and shine.
Dainty Six Prong Colorless (D-F) Lab Grown Diamond Round Stud Earrings
These beautiful earrings are set with a pair of matching round diamonds, secured in a minimalist six-prong setting. It’s simple yet elegant stud earrings for everyday wear. Also, colorless (D-F) lab-grown diamonds can offer amazing brilliance.Explore further: Laboratory Diamond Care and Wear.
3-Stone Emerald and Princess Lab Grown Diamond Drop Necklace
Elegance and brilliance combine in this necklace with a trio of lab-grown diamonds, including emerald and princess cuts. It adds sophistication and makes a chic statement.
- Perfect for adding a touch of sophistication to any outfit.
Making Use of What You Learned to Choose the Shape of Lab Grown Diamond
We’ve learned that:
- Round diamonds are the most expensive due to high demand, optimal brilliance, and greater waste during cutting.
- There are many different diamond shapes to choose from, each with its unique style and appeal.
- The price of a diamond can vary based on its shape, popularity, cutting difficulty, and carat weight distribution.
- Balancing shape preference with a budget is key when selecting lab grown diamond jewelry.
We’ve also seen three beautiful examples of lab grown diamond jewelry pieces that showcase different shapes and styles. When shopping for lab grown diamond rings or daily jewelry, remember to consider your style and preferences.
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