Princess cut diamonds are among the most popular diamond shapes in the world. Known for their sharp, modern look and brilliant sparkle, they have become a favorite choice for engagement rings, earrings, and other fine jewelry. If you’re considering buying a princess cut diamond or simply want to learn more about this stunning cut, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide will cover everything you need to know about princess cut diamonds, from their history and design to what to look for when buying one. Let’s dive into the world of princess cut diamonds!
What is a Princess Cut Diamond?
A princess-cut diamond is a square-shaped diamond with sharp corners and multiple facets. It’s designed to reflect maximum light, giving it exceptional brilliance and sparkle. Unlike the traditional round brilliant cut, which has a circular shape, the princess cut offers a more contemporary and bold look, making it an ideal choice for those who want something unique yet timeless.
Princess-cut diamonds typically have 58 facets, though the exact number can vary depending on the stone’s design. These facets help enhance the diamond’s sparkle by reflecting light from every angle, giving it a stunning, fiery appearance.
History of Princess Cut Diamonds
The princess cut diamond is relatively modern, having been developed in the 1960s. Before this, the most common diamond cuts were the round brilliant and emerald cuts. The princess cut emerged as a new option for those who wanted a square-shaped diamond with the same brilliance as a round cut.
Originally known as the “profile cut” when it was first developed by diamond cutter Arpad Nagy, the name was later changed to the “princess cut” in the 1980s. Since then, it has grown in popularity and is now the second most sought-after diamond cut after the round brilliant.
Why Choose a Princess Cut Diamond?
There are several reasons why the princess cut is a great choice for diamond lovers:
- Brilliance and Sparkle
The princess cut is known for its brilliance, thanks to the way it’s designed with multiple facets. These facets reflect light beautifully, creating a diamond that sparkles from every angle. If you love a diamond that shines brightly, the princess cut is an excellent option. - Unique, Modern Look
The sharp, square shape of the princess cut sets it apart from the traditional round or oval cuts. Its modern, geometric lines make it a favorite for people who want a stylish, contemporary look in their jewelry. - Versatility
Whether used in engagement rings, earrings, or pendants, the princess cut works well in various types of jewelry. Its sharp, clean lines complement both simple and intricate designs, giving you plenty of options to create your perfect piece. - Affordability
Because princess cut diamonds often retain more of the rough diamond during cutting, they can be more affordable than other shapes like round brilliant diamonds. This means you can get a larger diamond for the same price, making the princess cut a great value.
What to Look for When Buying a Princess Cut Diamond
When buying a princess cut diamond, there are several important factors to consider to ensure you’re getting a high-quality stone. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- Cut Quality
The cut of a diamond determines how well it reflects light, which is key to its brilliance. For princess-cut diamonds, it’s important to choose one with excellent or very good cut grades. A well-cut princess diamond will have balanced proportions, allowing it to sparkle brightly. Look for symmetry in the diamond, as this will enhance its overall appearance. - Clarity
Clarity refers to the presence of inclusions (internal flaws) or blemishes (external flaws) in a diamond. While most diamonds have some level of imperfections, the fewer there are, the better. For princess-cut diamonds, clarity is especially important because their large, flat table can make inclusions more visible. It’s a good idea to choose a diamond with a clarity grade of VS1 or higher to ensure that any imperfections are not noticeable to the naked eye. - Color
Princess-cut diamonds tend to show more color than round brilliant diamonds, so it’s important to pay attention to the diamond’s color grade. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades diamonds on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown). For a princess-cut diamond, it’s best to aim for a color grade between D and H, as these diamonds will appear white and bright. - Carat Weight
Carat weight refers to the size of the diamond. Princess-cut diamonds can appear smaller than round diamonds of the same carat weight due to their deep cut. If size is important to you, consider choosing a slightly larger carat weight to get the look you want. However, remember that cut quality, clarity, and color also play a major role in the diamond’s overall appearance.
How to Care for Princess Cut Diamonds
Like all diamonds, princess-cut diamonds require proper care to maintain their sparkle and beauty. Here are some tips for keeping your diamond looking its best:
- Regular Cleaning: Clean your princess cut diamond regularly using warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft brush. Gently scrub the diamond to remove any dirt or oil buildup.
- Safe Storage: When you’re not wearing your diamond jewelry, store it in a soft pouch or a lined jewelry box to protect it from scratches and damage.
- Professional Checkups: Take your diamond jewelry to a professional jeweler once a year for a checkup. They can inspect the setting and ensure the prongs are secure, preventing the diamond from becoming loose.
Conclusion
Princess cut diamonds are a stunning choice for those who want a modern, elegant, and brilliantly sparkling diamond. With their sharp corners and eye-catching brilliance, they are perfect for engagement rings, earrings, and more. When shopping for a princess cut diamond, remember to focus on cut quality, clarity, color, and carat weight to ensure you’re getting a diamond that will shine for a lifetime.
By caring for your princess-cut diamond properly, you can maintain its beauty and brilliance, making it a cherished piece of jewelry for years to come.