The cushion cut is one of the most popular diamond shapes in the world. Because this shape is so popular, there are thousands of cushion cut diamonds to choose from out there. How can you sort through the countless options to find the perfect diamond? Follow these five tips:
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Pay Attention to the Ratio
A cushion cut diamond is supposed to have a square shape, but some of them are slightly rectangular. Make sure you are purchasing a perfectly square-shaped cushion cut by checking its length-to-width ratio. Ideally, a cushion cut diamond should have a ratio between 1.00-1.05. If the ratio is outside of this range, the diamond will look elongated and rectangular.
Check the Color Grade
It’s important to check the color grade before purchasing a cushion cut diamond. Why? This shape retains a lot of color, so if there is even a hint of yellow in the diamond, it could be visible in a cushion cut. For this reason, it’s recommended that you choose a cushion cut diamond with a color grade of H or higher. However, this only applies to cushion cut diamonds that will be set in platinum or white gold. If the diamond is set in rose or yellow gold, you can drop down slightly on the color scale and achieve the same colorless look.
Pay More for Clarity
Another factor to consider when shopping for a cushion cut diamond is the clarity. This shape does not hide imperfections well due to its large, open table. As a result, a cushion cut diamond with a low clarity grade may have imperfections that are easily visible to the naked eye. To avoid this problem, choose a cushion cut diamond with a clarity grade of SI1 or higher. Regardless of its clarity grade, it’s best to carefully analyze the diamond before purchasing it to make sure there are no visible inclusions.
Learn the Difference between Chunky and Crushed Cuts
There are two types of cushion cut diamonds: chunky and crushed cuts. How can you tell the difference? Look down at the diamond. A chunky cut will have clearly defined facets that are visible through the table of the diamond so that it will look similar to a brilliant round diamond. A crushed ice cut will not have clearly defined facets so that it will look more like a radiant cut diamond. One style is not more valuable than the other, but it’s important to learn the difference between them so you can choose the one that you like best.
Source: Fortune
Test its Sparkle
Cushion diamonds should have a blindingly bright sparkle thanks to their open square shape and facets. Before purchasing a cushion cut, place it under a light and twist it around to see its brilliance. If it doesn’t produce an intense sparkle when the light hits it, the chances are that the diamond is cut poorly.
Keep these tips in mind when shopping for the perfect cushion cut diamond. Following these tips will make it easier to narrow down your options and select the diamond of your dreams!
