When you think of a diamond’s cut, you probably think of its shape. While the term “cut” does refer to a diamond’s shape, it also refers to the proportions of how it is cut.
Diamonds are cut into many different shapes, reflecting not only popular taste but the proportions and quality of the rough diamond. The most popular shapes include round, oval, square, princess, emerald, baguette, and marquise cuts, with many specialty shapes also available.
A diamond's overall proportions, plus the size and placement of its many reflective surfaces or facets, also play a large part in its cut. The consistency and balance of these aspects can greatly affect how the stone captures light and reflects it back to the eye.