Princess Perfect – Jewel-Craft

July 9, 2024

A Guide to Princess Cut Diamonds

The most popular fancy shape diamond, the princess cut diamond has captured the hearts of many with its timeless elegance and modern appeal. Let’s explore the history of the princess cut, why people might prefer it over other shapes and discuss the variations within this captivating cut. At Jewel-craft, we have an extensive gemstone collection that includes princess cut diamonds. We know diamonds, and we can work with you to provide the perfect stone for any project.

A Brief History of Princess Cut Diamonds

The princess cut, characterized by its sharp, square or rectangular shape and brilliant facets, evolved from the French cut square diamond, and the table cut before it, which originated in the 1400’s. Diamond historians believe that the term “princess cut” is relatively new, probably originating in the 1960s, and note that the style was fully embraced by diamond lovers by the 1980s.

The princess cut’s sophisticated facet diagram efficiently reflects light back to the eye and prioritizes clean, straight lines. It’s often cut with 57 facets (21 on the crown, 4 on the girdle, 33 on the pavilion) that allow for exceptional light reflection, giving it a brilliance that rivals that of the round brilliant cut. Today, the princess cut appeals to those seeking a modern, edgy look compared to traditional round or oval cuts.

Why Choose a Princess Cut Diamond?

There are several reasons why your client might prefer a princess cut diamond over other shapes:

Brilliance and Sparkle: The princess cut is known for exceptional brilliance. Its numerous facets reflect light beautifully, creating a dazzling, eye-catching sparkle.

Modern Aesthetic: The geometric shape of the princess cut gives it a sleek, contemporary feel. It’s perfect for those seeking a modern look for their engagement ring or stud earrings.

Versatility: Princess cut diamonds look stunning in a variety of settings, from solitaire to halo to three-stone rings. Their shape complements both classic and modern designs.

Maximized Carat Weight: The princess cut retains more of the rough diamond’s carat weight compared to round cuts.

Affordability: Because princess cut diamonds use more of the rough diamond, they are often less expensive per carat than round brilliant diamonds. Because of the octahedral shape of a rough diamond, gem cutters can split a rough diamond in half and cut two princesses with little waste; meaning your client can get a larger-looking diamond at a lower price.

Unique Shape: The square or rectangular shape of the princess cut sets it apart from more traditional round shapes, making it a popular choice for those who value a look that stands out.

Durability: The princess cut’s square corners can be more prone to chipping, but when set in protective prongs or a bezel setting, they can be quite durable and suitable for everyday wear.

Timeless Appeal: Despite being a relatively new cut, the princess cut has a timeless quality that continues to appeal to new generations.

Variations on the Princess Cut

While the classic princess cut is the most common, there are several variations and similar cuts that offer unique takes on this popular shape:

French Corners Versus Bezel Corners: The crown of a princess cut diamond can either have French corners, with star facets that point to the corners; or bezel corners characterized by diamond-shaped facets extending from the table corners to the stone corners. Bezel corners are typically more durable.

Number of Chevrons: On the princess cut’s pavilion, chevron shapes are responsible for the diamond’s brilliance, and a stone can have two, three or four chevrons. While two chevrons produce large, bold flashes of light, four chevrons scintillate more, but with smaller facets. Stones with three chevrons exist in a middle ground.

Your Project is Our Priority

The princess cut diamond offers a unique blend of modern style, exceptional brilliance and versatility for your client, making it a popular choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. Whether they’re drawn to its geometric shape, its sparkling facets, or its cost-effective nature, the princess cut is a timeless option that continues to enchant diamond enthusiasts around the world.

For three generations, and over seventy years, we’ve been cultivating our inventory of gemstones and diamonds, including popular diamond shapes like the princess cut. Once we’ve matched your stone, we’ll fit it and set it securely for you. All of our expert services are done under one roof at our headquarters in Erlanger, Kentucky.