If you’re searching for a diamond that perfectly blends vintage romance with modern brilliance, look no further than the cushion cut diamond. Loved by jewellery enthusiasts and celebrities alike, this cut brings an air of timeless elegance to engagement rings and fine jewellery. But what exactly makes cushion cut diamonds so special, and should you consider one for your next purchase?
This complete guide will help you understand what they are, how they’re made, where to buy them, and why they’re a smart investment.
What Are Cushion Cut Diamonds?
A cushion cut diamond (sometimes called a “pillow cut”) is a gemstone with rounded corners and larger facets that create a soft, romantic appearance. It’s often described as a mix between a round brilliant and a princess cut, combining sparkle with a more vintage charm.
This cut has been around for over 200 years, originally known as the “old mine cut.” In the 19th century, it was the most popular diamond shape before the modern round cut became dominant. However, cushion cuts have made a major comeback in recent years.
According to a 2024 report by Brilliant Earth, cushion cut diamonds are now the second most popular diamond shape for engagement rings, accounting for over 23% of sales. Their enduring popularity lies in their ability to look both classic and contemporary, depending on the setting.
How Are Cushion Cut Diamonds Made?
Creating a cushion cut diamond is a process that blends precise craftsmanship with artistic flair.
The steps include:
-
Selecting the rough diamond – The cutter examines the natural diamond’s shape to determine the best yield while maximising sparkle.
-
Planning the cut – Using 3D modelling and computer-aided design, experts calculate proportions to achieve the ideal length-to-width ratio (usually between 1.00 and 1.10).
-
Faceting – Cushion cuts can have between 58 and 64 facets, which are carefully angled to reflect light evenly.
-
Polishing and symmetry – Finally, the stone is polished to perfection, ensuring symmetry that enhances its brilliance.
There are also two main styles:
-
Cushion Brilliant Cut – Features star and kite-shaped facets for high sparkle.
-
Cushion Modified Brilliant Cut – Has extra facets beneath the crown, giving a “crushed ice” effect similar to radiant cut diamonds.
Why Are Cushion Cut Diamonds Made?
Cushion-cut diamonds were designed to bring out the best light performance while maintaining a softer, antique appeal. The rounded edges make them ideal for those who love the brilliance of modern cuts but prefer something less sharp or geometric.
In short, they were made to balance fire and comfort — a diamond that feels both radiant and romantic.
Another reason for their resurgence is durability. The rounded corners are less prone to chipping compared to pointed shapes like princess or pear cuts, making them perfect for everyday wear.
Should You Buy Cushion Cut Diamonds?
If you love diamonds as much as I do, then you'll love cushion cut diamonds as they combine elegance, comfort, and personality. Cushion-cut diamonds are perfect for people who appreciate a vintage aesthetic without sacrificing sparkle.
Here’s why you might fall in love with one:
-
Timeless beauty: They have a classic charm that never goes out of style.
-
Exceptional brilliance: While slightly less fiery than a round cut, they still reflect light beautifully.
-
Better value: Cushion cuts can be 20–30% less expensive per carat than round diamonds.
-
Versatility: They look stunning in both halo and solitaire settings.
If you’re seeking something personal, a cushion cut offers individuality — no two are exactly alike due to the variations in facet patterns and proportions.
Where Can You Buy Cushion Cut Diamonds?
When shopping for cushion cut diamonds, it’s crucial to purchase from trusted retailers that offer certified diamonds with transparent grading reports.
Top recommended retailers:
-
Blue Nile – Offers thousands of GIA-certified cushion cuts with 360° viewing.
-
James Allen – Known for high-definition diamond videos so you can see every detail.
-
Brilliant Earth – Ethical sourcing and lab-grown cushion cut options.
-
Tiffany & Co. – Luxury craftsmanship with unmatched attention to detail.
Tip: Always look for diamonds certified by GIA (Gemological Institute of America) or IGI (International Gemological Institute). This guarantees quality and authenticity.
When buying in person, inspect for symmetry, brightness, and clarity — cushion cuts can hide inclusions better than some other shapes, but you’ll still want a clarity grade of VS2 or higher.
Are Cushion Cut Diamonds a Good Investment?
Cushion-cut diamonds are an excellent investment in both emotional and financial terms.
From an investment perspective, their price tends to hold well, especially for high-quality stones above 1 carat with excellent cut and colour. They also appeal to collectors who value antique-inspired shapes.
In addition, the growing interest in sustainable jewellery has boosted the market for lab-grown cushion cut diamonds, which are more affordable yet nearly identical in composition.
According to the Rapaport Diamond Report (2024), cushion cuts currently represent 18% of all fancy-shaped diamond sales, indicating a strong and steady demand.
However, the real value lies in their timeless design. A cushion cut diamond is unlikely to fall out of fashion, making it a safe choice for both personal wear and long-term ownership.
Should You Wear Cushion Cut Diamonds as Jewellery?
Cushion-cut diamonds are versatile and elegant, making them a favourite for engagement rings, earrings, and pendants.
Their shape allows them to catch light beautifully, and they pair well with vintage-inspired or halo settings that enhance their sparkle.
Because of their smooth edges, cushion cuts are also comfortable for daily wear. They blend seamlessly into both modern minimalist and classic romantic jewellery designs.
For engagement rings, they look especially stunning in rose gold, which complements the diamond’s warm fire, or platinum, which enhances clarity and brilliance.
Who Should Wear Cushion Cut Diamonds?
Cushion-cut diamonds are ideal for those who appreciate old-world charm with a modern twist.
They suit personalities who value elegance, warmth, and subtle sophistication rather than flashy glamour.
In terms of hand shape, cushion cuts complement both slender and wide fingers, thanks to their rounded corners and soft outline.
This makes them a wonderful choice for people who want something distinctive but timeless — a stone that stands out without screaming for attention.
Conclusion
The cushion cut diamond is one of the most enchanting shapes in the world of gemstones — a perfect marriage of history, craftsmanship, and contemporary appeal.
Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, upgrading your jewellery collection, or simply learning more about diamonds, cushion cuts deliver on all fronts: beauty, durability, and value.
Their gentle edges, radiant sparkle, and vintage soul make them a choice that never goes out of style.
So, if you want a diamond that tells a story — a piece of history reborn in a modern world — the cushion cut might just be the one.
FAQs
1. What makes cushion-cut diamonds different from round ones?
Cushion cuts have a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, offering a softer and more romantic look compared to the perfectly circular round cut.
2. Are cushion-cut diamonds cheaper than round diamonds?
Yes, typically 20–30% less expensive per carat, while still providing impressive brilliance.
3. Do cushion-cut diamonds sparkle as much as other cuts?
They have a softer sparkle known as “fire,” which creates a warm, glowing effect — slightly less intense but more romantic than a round cut’s brilliance.
4. What setting looks best for a cushion cut diamond?
Halo and solitaire settings enhance their shape beautifully, while vintage-inspired designs bring out their old-world charm.
5. Can cushion-cut diamonds be lab-grown?
Absolutely. Lab-grown cushion cuts are nearly identical to natural ones, both physically and chemically, and they’re more affordable and sustainable.