Wednesday, September 9, 2009

Diamond Rings and Their Cuts

Diamond rings are certainly the most popular rings in the world. They are widely used for engagement, but are also very commonly used for anniversary gifts, graduation rings and congratulatory rings, as with the birth of a child. If you are in the market for diamond rings, then you probably have a lot of questions about cut, carat, clarity and quality. Here we will focus on the cut of diamond that you may prefer. Diamonds come in all shapes and sizes, so the one you choose will have some personal significance. Although no two diamonds are identical, there are nine basic cuts that you can choose from.

The princess cut is the most popular today. This is a square cut diamond with added facets for fire and brilliance. Square diamonds are beautiful, but have lost out in the popularity contest with round brilliants in the past. That is why the princess cut has become so popular lately. The old style of square cut just didn't sparkle like the round cuts did. The princess cut brings you the sparkle of the round cut in a beautiful, sophisticated square shape.

The asscher cut diamond is a square diamond with the corners cut off. This helps eliminate chipping risks. The asscher doesn't have all of the facets of the princess cut, but does have a unique sparkle. Higher quality diamonds are generally used for the asscher cut because its design can show flaws more vividly than more brilliant cuts. The emerald cut is basically the same, but more of a rectangle shape. The emerald cut can also show flaws if the quality of the diamond is not high enough.

The cushion cut diamond is rectangular with the corners rounded. It has more facets than the emerald cut and can more effectively hide flaws. It has more sparkle and brilliance, but doesn't show the clarity that an emerald or asscher cut can. Similar to the cushion, asscher and emerald cut is the radiant cut. This is a marvelously faceted rectangular cut. The corners are cut off and the facets are triangular like the popular round brilliant.

An oval cut is very beautiful with its smooth lines and sparkling facets. This is a good alternative for people who love round brilliants but prefer something a little more unique. Another unique shape that really sparkles is the heart shaped diamond. The pear cut and marquise cut are also popular alternatives to the traditional round brilliant. All are beautiful and have lots of facets to sparkle. Pear cut diamonds are round on one end and come to a point on the other, like a teardrop. Marquise cut diamonds are oval with a point on two ends, giving them a unique yet feminine shape.

Whatever styles of diamond rings you are considering, you're sure to make an impression with any shape of diamond that you choose. Make shopping for diamond rings fun by educating yourself on what types of diamonds are out there before you shop. Buying diamond rings is an experience that you should feel good about. Once you've decided on the right one for that special someone in your life, you're sure to win her heart.

About the Author: Ian Maher is the CEO of Maliere, a leading provider of diamond rings, eternity rings, platinum rings and gold rings. For more information, please visit http://www.Maliere.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ian_A._Maher
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