What is a Cushion Cut Diamond?
A cushion cut diamond is a hybrid of a modern round brilliant cut pattern diamond and an old mine facet pattern diamond cut. This type of diamond is typically soft square or rectangular in shape, with curved edges.
Simply put, a cushion cut diamond combines a square cut with rounded corners, giving it a pillow-like appearance. This is where the term "cushion cut" comes from.
Cushion cut diamonds are typically significantly less expensive than round brilliant diamonds. However, because cushion cut diamond rings are becoming increasingly popular, these prices may vary and rise significantly.
What are the Pros and Cons of Cushion Cut Diamond?
As with any diamond shape, there are pros and cons to the cushion cut.
On the pro side, cushion cut diamond has exceptional brilliance and fire, it reflects white and coloured light well. Because of the rounded edges, engagement ring mounted with cushion cut is extremely durable. The style of it combines traditional and contemporary fashion. Diamonds that are less expensive per carat than Round Cut diamonds and it is increasingly popular.
For the cons, due to its superior color retention is is recommended buying an H grade or above. Because the table is open, flaws may be more visible. Lastly, a variety of terms are used to refer to it, which can lead to buyer confusion (i.e. modified cushion, classic cushion, chunky cushion)
How to choose a Cushion Cut Diamond?
Cushion cuts are one of the worst shapes for colour retention (or one of the best, if you're after fancy colour diamond). The two most common diamond shapes in the fancy colour diamond market are cushions and radiants. These shapes are the polar opposite of rounds, which are the best at hiding their colour. As a result, unless it will be set in yellow or rose gold, it is recommended to stick with H or better when purchasing a cushion cut.
Cushion cuts can be challenging in terms of diamond clarity. To begin, you should decide whether you want a crushed-ice cushion or a "antique" cushion. The reason for this is that the crushed-ice look, in any shape diamond, is a great hider of inclusions.
Furthermore, if you're looking to buy a marquise or pear shape diamond, it's always best if the inclusions are in the corners, as they'll be heavily masked by the crushed-ice that's typically found in these shapes' corners. Of course, you won't know what kind of cushion look you're getting unless you see a picture of the diamond in question - so it's a given that you'll be able to inspect the diamond's clarity as well. As a result, as always, aim for the lowest clarity that is still eye-clean.
