When shopping for jewelry, you will find that diamonds are one of the most popular stones available. Whether for engagement rings, earrings, or necklaces, the diamond has always been referred to as “a girl’s best friend.” Diamonds come in several distinctive cuts such as pear, oval, and round, a favorite for traditional engagement rings. In this article, you will learn about another unique cut of diamond that got its start less than 40 years ago in Europe. If you are looking for a cheaper but equally beautiful alternative to the round cut, then princess cut diamonds are for you.
A Background of the Princess Cut
Princess cut diamonds were first introduced in London, England. In 1960, a diamond cutter by the name of A. Nagy was interested in creating a cheaper cut of diamond for people to buy. This was when the princess cut was created. Today, the princess cut has gained popularity as the new modern look. Its popularity has grown tremendously for all types of jewelry, especially engagement rings.
Distinctive Look and Style
The princess cut is quite distinctive yet simple. This cut is similar to a perfect square. It can also take the shape of a less-than perfect rectangle, but it is not as large or perfect as an emerald cut. In fact, the ideal cut is a perfect square with the length and width being equal. Princess cut diamonds are also know for their brilliance. A good indicator of an excellent cut is the way it sparkles. If it catches and reflects the light well, it will resemble a twinkling star.
The Size: Diamond May Appear Smaller Than It Really Is
An interesting fact about the princess cut is how small it appears compared to other cuts. Because of its perfect shape, the diamond appears to be smaller than it really is. With other cuts like the pear or marquise, a large amount of the diamond’s mass rests at the top. The crown, as it is called, of these other shapes give them their unique look. Princess cut diamonds, however, only have about 20% of their mass on top. If you compare a one-carat princess cut diamond to a one-carat marquise cut, the princess cut will appear almost 40% smaller. This is important to know if you are trying to purchase a diamond in order to impress someone. If you are trying to achieve the same size as other cuts, you may have to get 1.5 or more carats to make it look bigger. The princess cut will always appear smaller than diamonds of the same weight unless you are willing to spend a little more money.
Do not feel discouraged, however, about this size issue. The princess cut is well worth the trouble. The simple elegance and beauty of the princess cut will give your plenty of sparkle and twinkle for less money. The princess cut will also create unique gifts and jewelry and, more importantly, your fiancée will enjoy a non-traditional diamond style that will set her ring apart from all the others.
By Tamara C. Jude