Diamond Shape Guide | Solomon Jewelers Wichita KS
Diamond Shape Guide — Solomon Jewelers Wichita, KS
Choosing the right diamond shape is the most personal decision in engagement ring buying. Here's a practical guide to every major center stone shape from the team at Solomon Jewelers in Wichita.
Round Brilliant
The most popular shape in the world. Engineered specifically for maximum light return — more sparkle per carat than any other shape. Works in every setting. Commands a slight price premium due to demand and rough diamond yield. Best for: people who want maximum brilliance and guaranteed timelessness.
Oval
The current dominant trend for engagement rings. Elongates the finger, faces up larger than a round of the same carat weight, and typically costs 15–25% less per carat. Watch for the bowtie effect in poorly cut stones — always evaluate in person. Best for: people who want a larger-looking stone with flattering proportions.
Emerald Cut
A step-cut stone with a hall-of-mirrors effect rather than sparkle. Elegant, architectural, sophisticated. Requires higher clarity (VS2 minimum) as inclusions are more visible. Best for: people who prefer understated elegance over maximum brilliance.
Cushion Cut
Square or rectangular with soft rounded corners. Warm, romantic sparkle. Comes in classic cushion brilliant (chunky fire) and modified cushion (crushed-ice). Best for: people drawn to romantic, vintage-inspired aesthetics.
Princess Cut
A square brilliant — near-round level sparkle in a modern geometric form. The second most popular shape after round. Pointed corners require protective prongs. Best for: people who want square shape with maximum sparkle.
Pear Shape
A teardrop shape — graceful, distinctive, elongating. Can be worn point-up traditionally or east-west for a modern look. Check for bowtie effect. Best for: people who want something distinctive and flattering on shorter fingers.
Marquise
The most elongated shape — dramatic finger-elongating effect. Faces up larger than rounds of the same carat weight. Pointed ends require V-tip protective prongs. Best for: people who want maximum visual impact and elongation.
Radiant Cut
A rectangular shape with brilliant faceting — combines the lines of an emerald cut with the sparkle of a round. Versatile and increasingly popular. Best for: people who want the shape of an emerald cut but with more brilliance.
Asscher Cut
A square step-cut — the square version of an emerald cut. Art Deco heritage, highly distinctive. Requires VS2 or better clarity. Best for: people who love vintage/Art Deco aesthetics.
Come In and Try Them
Every shape looks different on different hands. The best decision is made in person. Visit Solomon Jewelers at 7700 E Kellogg Dr, Suite E11, Wichita and we'll show you examples of every shape in your budget.
Book a private bridal consultation or shop engagement rings by shape.