Cushion Cut Diamonds
Complete Guide for Timeless Elegance
Diamonds are admired for their brilliance, but their shape and cut define their true character. Among the most popular styles, the cushion cut diamond stands out with its soft, romantic appearance. Known as the “pillow cut,” it blends vintage charm with modern brilliance, making it a top choice for engagement rings and fine jewelry.
In this blog, let’s explore everything about cushion cut diamonds—their features, history, pros & cons, the 4Cs, pricing, certifications, and more.
Features of Cushion Cut Diamonds
- Shape: Square or rectangular with softly rounded corners, resembling a cushion or pillow.
- Facets: Typically 58 facets (like a round brilliant), allowing for excellent fire and brilliance.
- Appearance: Known for its ability to showcase colored diamonds beautifully because of larger facets.
- Style Variations: Standard cushion brilliant and modified cushion brilliant (which has extra facets for added sparkle).
- Versatility: Works well in solitaires, halos, vintage settings, and modern designs.
History of Cushion Cut Diamonds
The cushion cut dates back to the early 19th century, originally called the “old mine cut.” Back then, diamonds were hand-cut to maximize sparkle in candlelight. Over 200 years, the cushion cut has evolved with new cutting techniques that enhance brilliance and symmetry.
- 1800s: Old mine cut was popular in Victorian and Edwardian jewelry.
- 1900s: Transitioned into the “cushion brilliant” style with better light performance.
- Today: Cushion cuts remain a favorite for those who love vintage-inspired yet timeless jewelry.
Pros & Cons of Cushion Cut Diamonds
✅ Pros:
- Romantic and vintage-inspired look
- Excellent brilliance and fire
- Hides inclusions well due to larger facets
- Unique compared to round or princess cuts
- Versatile in different settings
❌ Cons:
- Appears smaller than round diamonds of the same carat weight (due to deeper cut)
- Facet pattern may vary (need careful selection)
- Not as brilliant as a round cut
The 4Cs in Cushion Cut Diamonds
- Cut: The most important factor—look for well-proportioned depth (61–68%) and table (56–65%). A good cut enhances sparkle.
- Color: Cushion cuts tend to show more color than rounds. For white diamonds, aim for H or higher. For fancy colors, cushion is one of the best shapes.
- Clarity: Larger facets can reveal inclusions. A minimum of VS2 is usually recommended.
- Carat: Cushion cuts look slightly smaller than rounds, but they carry weight in depth. Choosing a slightly elongated cushion can make it appear larger.
Pricing of Cushion Cut Diamonds
Cushion cut diamonds are generally 20–30% less expensive than round brilliant diamonds of the same carat, making them a value-for-money option. Pricing depends on:
- Carat size
- Cut quality
- Color & clarity grade
- Whether it is natural or lab-grown (lab-grown can save 40–60%).
💎 Example: A 1.00 carat cushion cut lab-grown diamond may cost around ₹60,000–₹90,000, while a natural one could be ₹1.5–₹2.5 lakh depending on the quality.
Certifications of Cushion Cut Diamonds
Always ensure your diamond comes with an authentic certification from reputed gemological labs:
- GIA (Solitaire Gemmological Laboratories Ltd.)
- IGI (International Gemological Institute)
These certificates verify the diamond’s cut, clarity, carat, and color, ensuring transparency and trust.
Conclusion
A cushion cut diamond is the perfect blend of vintage romance and modern sparkle. It offers exceptional fire, timeless beauty, and great value compared to other shapes. Whether you’re choosing it for an engagement ring, earrings, or a pendant, the cushion cut is a versatile and elegant choice.
✨ At Six79 Jewel, we specialize in lab-grown cushion cut diamonds—crafted ethically, certified internationally, and designed to sparkle with purpose. If you’re looking for a sustainable yet luxurious diamond, a cushion cut from Six79 is a choice you’ll cherish forever.