By far the most commonly chosen shape, the round-cut diamond is highly sought after for its incredible brilliance. Round diamonds have been researched extensively by gemmologists seeking to perfect the brilliant cut of these stunning stones. Round-cut diamonds offer more flexibility in terms of balancing cut, colour and clarity grades while giving off incredible fire and sparkle. When everything else is equal – the Four Cs – round cut diamonds are generally more valuable than other shapes.

An extremely popular fancy-shape diamond, the Princess Cut is characterised by its stunning brilliance and unique style. With pointed corners and distinct square shape, it is often referred to as a ‘square modified brilliant’. Its brilliance is given off through its step-modified Double French-cut crown and a series of unique, chevron-shaped facets in the pavilion which create a distinct cross-shaped reflection when the stone is viewed directly through the table.

A combination of the traditional round brilliant shape with the marquise cut, the shape emits nearly as much brilliance as the round. Their elongated shape is flattering on the hand and often appears larger than a round diamond of equal carat weight.

It is believed the marquise cut was created for King Louis XIV who wanted a diamond that represented the smile of Marquise de Pompadour. Its shape creates a much-larger looking diamond for its carat weight than many other shapes and the shape of the diamond is very flattering on the hand.

The pear cut diamond is the perfect combination of the brilliant and marquise styles. Forming a tapered teardrop, it has a unique look and looks very elegant on the hand. Shapes vary from quite broad to elongated.