Five Things You Should Know About Diamonds On Valentines Day

Published on 10/02/10

For many people, the classic diamond is a round gem of sparking white brilliance with a shine that bedazzles the eye. Diamonds are natural crystals of varying size and shape formed in the earth over millions of years. The traditional round brilliant diamond is hardly the whole story.

1. Round Brilliant

This is the most traditional, due largely to its symmetrical shape for light to disperse in the diamond. This the brightest of all cuts and accounts for more than 75 percent of diamonds sold today.

2. Princess Cut

This is a square or rectangle shaped diamond. It is a relatively new cut and often finds its way into solitaire engagement rings.

3. Marquise Diamond

This is an elongated shape with pointed ends. It is boat shaped and is the number two most popular with a fancy cut.

4. Pear shape

This is a hybrid cut, combining the oval and the marquise cut. It also belongs to the category of diamond whose design most compliments a hand with small or average-length fingers.

5. Heart shape

This is the ultimate symbol of romance and essentially a pear-shape with a cleft at the top. The skill of the cutter determines the beauty of the cut.