WHY IS THE CUSHION CUT DIAMOND THE CHEAPEST SHAPE?

When it comes to shopping for diamonds, many factors influence the price, such as carat weight, color, clarity, and cut.

While some diamond cuts may be pricier due to their popularity (round diamonds) or rarity, the cushion cut diamond stands out as an excellent choice for those seeking both affordability and exceptional beauty.

So let’s explore why the cushion cut diamond is often considered the cheapest diamond cutting style you can buy.

1. Vintage appeal at a lower cost:

The cushion cut diamond boasts a timeless charm that has captivated jewelry enthusiasts for centuries. With its rounded corners and large facets, this cutting style often resembles a pillow or cushion, hence its name. The cushion cut has a rich history, dating back to the 19th century, making it a popular choice for those seeking vintage-inspired designs.

Due to its long-standing popularity and widespread availability, cushion cut diamonds are generally more affordable compared to other diamond cuts, such as round brilliant or princess cuts. While vintage appeal doesn’t necessarily translate to lower prices, the cushion cut’s enduring popularity has led to it being produced in larger quantities, increasing its affordability.

2. Maximizing carat weight:

One significant advantage of the cushion cut diamond is its ability to retain more carat weight than other cuts. Carat weight is a significant factor in determining a diamond’s price, and cushion cut diamonds offer an advantage in this area. The cushion cut’s deep pavilion and larger facets allow it to retain more weight from the rough diamond during the cutting process.

For budget-conscious buyers who prefer a larger-looking diamond, the cushion cut offers an excellent option. By maximizing carat weight, cushion cut diamonds provide an enhanced visual impact while remaining cost-effective compared to other cuts.

3. Versatility and color masking:

Another feature that contributes to the cushion cut diamond’s affordability is its ability to mask certain color and clarity imperfections. Due to the cut’s unique faceting pattern and larger facets, inclusions and lower color grades can be hidden more effectively compared to other cuts, such as the emerald cut or the princess cut.

The cushion cut’s ability to mask imperfections allows buyers to opt for lower clarity and color grades without compromising on the overall appearance of the diamond. Consequently, this provides an opportunity to purchase a larger carat weight cushion cut diamond at a lower price point than other cuts.

4. Customization and individuality:

The cushion cut’s versatility extends beyond its affordability. The shape of the cushion cut diamond can vary from square to rectangular, with varying ratios of length to width, allowing for customization and individuality.

This flexibility allows buyers to choose a cushion cut diamond that best suits their personal preferences, making it an attractive option for those seeking a unique and distinctive piece of jewelry without breaking the bank.

While diamond prices are influenced by a range of factors, the cushion cut diamond offers an excellent balance of affordability, elegance, and versatility. Its vintage appeal, ability to retain carat weight, color-masking properties, and customization options make it an enticing choice for buyers with budget constraints.

When shopping for a diamond, it’s essential to consider personal preferences and prioritize factors such as cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Ultimately, the cushion cut diamond provides an affordable option without compromising on the brilliance and beauty that diamonds are renowned for, making it an excellent choice for those seeking high value within a reasonable budget.

While the cushion cut diamond is often considered the cheapest diamond cutting style you can buy, it’s important to remember that affordability should not be the sole factor in your decision-making process. It’s crucial to find a balance between price and quality, ensuring that you choose a diamond that meets your standards of beauty and craftsmanship.

Additionally, take the time to educate yourself about the 4Cs of diamonds: carat, color, clarity, and cut. Understanding these factors will help you make an informed decision and ensure that you are getting the best value for your money.

And as always, view all diamonds (especially loose diamonds) under magnification to see the diamond closer, and see what’s hidden inside the stone.

Take a look at these beautiful cushion cut diamonds here at James Allen.

Cheers! :)