Princess Cut Vs Round Cut: A Simple Guide

23 February 2024

An informative comparison image featuring two rings: on the left, a Round Cut diamond solitaire ring with a sleek band, and on the right, a Princess Cut diamond on a similar band, both against a vibrant purple background, with text overlay 'The Princess Cut Vs Round Cut: A Simple Guide.

Princess Cut vs Round Cut: which reigns supreme in the world of diamond engagement rings? This question has sparked endless debates among jewelers and couples alike. While the round cut has been the traditional favorite, offering unparalleled brilliance, the princess cut proposes a modern elegance that captivates with its clean lines.

But why does this matter to you? Imagine the moment you open a small box to reveal a shimmering statement of love; the shape of the diamond can reflect not just light, but the essence of your story.

With the princess cut’s contemporary charm and the round cut’s timeless allure, choosing between them is more than a matter of taste—it’s a declaration of personal style. As we delve into the nuances of each cut, consider which diamond tells your love story best.

Historical Background

Historical Background Of Princess Cut Diamonds

The princess-cut diamond’s journey to prominence began in the 1960s with Arpad Nagy’s profile cut, a creation that laid the groundwork for this popular diamond shape. [1] This term was later associated with the rough diamond and other square cuts, including the barion and quadrillion cuts, setting the stage for the princess cut’s debut. Crafted in 1980 by Betazel Ambar, Ygal Perlman, and Israel Itzkowitz, the princess cut, technically known as the ‘square modified brilliant,’ combines contemporary aesthetics with radiant brilliance. [2]

Peaking in popularity from the 80s to the 2000s, the princess cut is characterized by its geometric precision and inverted pyramid profile. [3] As the second most popular diamond shape,[4] it offers a unique blend of traditional sparkle and modern sophistication. The allure of the Princess cut diamond ring continues to captivate those seeking a balance of the old and new, making it a sought-after choice for many.

Historical Background Of Round Cut Diamonds

The origins of the round diamond are traced back to the mid-18th century with the creation of the Mazarins by Cardinal Mazarin. [5] This period marked an evolution in diamond cutting, leading to the development of the “old mine” or “old European cut” in the 1800s, a transformation of the original Mazarin design and a precursor to the traditional round-cut diamond. [6]

The modern round brilliant cut, a popular choice for diamond engagement rings, emerged in 1919, crafted by Marcel Tolkowsky. [7] Known initially as the Tolkowsky cut[8], it represented a blend of mathematical precision and artistic elegance, setting a new standard in the world of round-cut stones.

This cut, born from a rough diamond, set a new standard in the world of diamonds, marking the birth of the iconic round brilliant cut cherished globally today.

Aesthetic Appeal

Aesthetic Appeal Of Princess Cut Diamonds

The princess-cut diamond is modern and square-shaped, with sharp corners different from traditional round cuts. It fits well with various settings and metals, suitable for engagement rings. It suits the modern lifestyle and appeals to those wanting elegance and boldness.[9]

Aesthetic Appeal Of Round Cut Diamonds

The round brilliant cut diamonds is the most popular diamond shape, known for its perfect circle and exceptional brilliance. It works well in various settings, enhances colored gemstones, and maintains its value over time. It’s versatile for future redesigns and its many facets can hide flaws, making it appear brighter even in lower grades. This cut is a lasting, stylish, and valuable choice.[10]

Diagram illustrating the differences in dimensions for princess cut vs round cut gems with ratios of 1.0, 1.05, and 1.25, including a detailed facet design, by Orbis Gems.

Cut and Brilliance

Cut and Brilliance Of Princess Cut Diamonds

The allure of a princess-cut diamond lies in its intricate design and radiant brilliance, shaped by several key factors. The crown can boast either durable bezel corners or uniquely appealing French corners. The diamond’s brilliance is amplified by the chevron shapes on the pavilion, with the number of chevrons influencing the display of light and color.

Key aspects to consider:

Depth Percentage: Opt for 72.7-75% to ensure optimal light reflection.[11]
Table Percentage: A maximum of 67-72% is ideal for a stunning princess cut.[12]
Length-to-Width Ratio: 1.00 – 1.05 is the ideal ratio for a princess cut. [13]
Girdle Thickness: Avoid “Extremely Thin” girdles to prevent breakage due to the cut’s fragile corners, the best would be Very Thin – Slightly Thick.[14]
Polish and Symmetry: Aim for ratings of “Good” or better, though the visual difference to “Excellent” is minimal. [15]

The combination of these factors contributes to the mesmerizing allure of princess-cut diamonds. Their contemporary elegance, coupled with radiant brilliance, makes them a favored choice for many.

Cut and Brilliance Of Round Cut Diamonds

The cut and brilliance of round diamonds are a harmonious interplay of precise measurements and meticulous craftsmanship. These diamonds are renowned for their classic elegance, achieved through specific proportions that optimize their sparkle and fire. The American ideal cut or Tolkowsky ideal cut, characterized by 57 or 58 facets, is a testament to this precision, ensuring each diamond radiates incandescence.[16]

Key aspects to consider include:

Depth Percentage: A range of 59.5-62.9% is ideal to optimize the diamond’s light reflection.[17]
Table Range: A proportion of 54-60% is excellent, balancing brilliance and fire.[18]
Girdle Thickness: Aim for medium to slightly thick girdles for structural integrity.[19]
Length-to-Width Ratio: A ratio of 1.0-1.05 ensures a perfectly round appearance.[20]
Polish and Symmetry: “Excellent” grades are ideal, though “Very Good” is also acceptable. [21]

The total depth, crown height and angle, and pavilion depth and angle are pivotal in determining the diamond’s brilliance. A well-proportioned diamond avoids the “fish eye” and “nail head” effects,[22] ensuring a captivating sparkle. The girdle diameter and thickness, table size, and facet proportions all contribute to the diamond’s overall aesthetic and value.[23]

Popularity and Price

Popularity and Price Of Princess Cut Diamonds

The princess cut diamond holds a prestigious position in the realm of fine jewelry, accounting for an impressive 30% of engagement rings. [24] Its enduring popularity is cemented by its classic yet contemporary aesthetic, offering a versatile and elegant option for a diverse range of preferences. As the second most popular diamond cut, the princess cut continues to captivate with its unique blend of sophistication and brilliance.

When it comes to price, the Princess Cut offers a spectrum of options catering to various budgets. Here are some price examples based on different carat weights:

4.00 Carat: Prices range from R799.00 to R2479.40
4.50 Carat: Ranging from R1,421 to R3,842.00
5.00 (0.5ct) Carat: Prices vary between R1,800.00 and R4781.70
5.50 Carat: The price can go up to R6,160.00
6.00 Carat: Ranging from R2,860.00 to R9209.20
6.5 (1ct) Carat: Prices vary widely, with the highest being R11157.30 [25]

These prices underscore the affordability of the princess cut, especially when compared to other popular cuts like the round brilliant. The combination of its captivating aesthetic, versatility, and cost-effectiveness makes the princess cut a favored choice for those seeking a diamond that offers both visual appeal and value.

Popularity and Price Of Round-Cut Diamonds

Round-cut diamonds reign supreme in popularity, accounting for between two-thirds and 75% of all diamonds sold and gracing approximately 60%[26] of all engagement rings. Their universal appeal is underscored by their iconic brilliance and timeless elegance. Here’s a glimpse into the pricing landscape for round-cut diamonds of various sizes:

1.80 Carat: Prices hover around R51.00 to R79.00 with an average of R19.55.
2.00 Carat: The range extends from R65.00 to R109.00 averaging R20.13.
2.5 Carat: Prices vary between R144.00 and R202.00 with an average price of R50.60.
3.00 Carat: A broader range, from R297.00 to R590.00, averaging at R87.40.
3.50 Carat: Prices escalate to a range of R399.00 to R944.53, with an average of R135.70.
4.00 Carat: A significant jump, ranging from R459.00 to R1,357.77, averaging R239.20.
5.00 (0.5ct) Carat: Prices oscillate between R939.00 and R2,951.67, with an average of R419.75.
6.00 Carat: The range extends further, from R1,729.00 to R4,722.67, averaging R638.25.
6.5 (1ct) Carat: Prices vary widely, from R1,500.00 to R5,366.67, with an average of R796.95.
7.5 (1.5ct) Carat: This category sees prices ranging from R2,200.00 to R8,855.00, averaging R1380.00 [27]

Discover the Elegance of Princess Cut Moissanite at Orbis Gems

Embark on a journey of elegance with orbisgems.co.za, your premier destination for top-tier princess-cut moissanite. Each stone, meticulously crafted, offers a unique blend of sophistication and brilliance, serving as a radiant alternative to the traditional round cut. Our princess-cut moissanite is renowned for its dazzling fire, exceptional clarity, and sustainable sourcing.

Conclusion

The princess cut is modern and affordable, while the round cut is timeless and iconic, dominating the market. The princess cut offers a contemporary, budget-friendly option, and the round cut represents classic beauty and elegance. The round cut is a classic choice in fine jewelry due to its legacy and brilliance.

FAQ

Why are round-cut diamonds more popular than princess-cut diamonds?

The round brilliant cut is popular for its perfect circular shape and exceptional fire and brilliance. It is versatile, enhancing the beauty of colored gemstones and fitting well with various settings.

Are princess-cut diamonds more affordable than round-cut diamonds?

Yes, the round cut maintains its value well and is unaffected by fashion trends, making it a good investment choice

How do I choose between a princess cut and a round cut diamond for an engagement ring?

The round cut’s numerous facets can hide internal flaws, allowing for a lower clarity grade without losing beauty. It appears brighter and whiter, even in near-colorless grades.

References

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