Diamond Face-Off: Round vs. Cushion Comparison

Cushions and rounds are often considered sister shapes, but these two brilliant cuts have several distinct differences. Here’s a comparison: Cushion vs. Round.

Round Shape Diamonds

Round diamonds remain one of the most popular shapes as they are generally synonymous with engagement rings as a whole.

The Round Brilliant cut was introduced in 1919 by Marcel Tolkowsky, a Belgian mathematician. Utilizing his mathematical expertise, he determined the exact angles and proportions required to achieve the most brilliant diamond cut.

Although round diamonds existed before, none were as brilliant or light-catching as those produced with this new cut. The Round Brilliant cut, also known as the Ideal Cut, outshined previous round cuts such as the Rose Cut, Single Cut, and Old European Cut.

5.15 carat Round Lab Diamond Solitaire Ring

Cushion Cut Diamonds

Cushion cut diamonds are known for their rectangular or square shape with soft, rounded edges giving them their distinct pillow-like appearance.

Cushion cuts date back to when diamond cutting was invented itself. However, the newest versions are the result of technological advancements and refinements in diamond cutting methods. There are numerous cut styles available in the market for these diamonds including the modified brilliant cut, the antique cut, and the crushed ice cut.

5.03 carat Cushion Cut Diamond Invisible Gallery™ Ring

Cut Comparison

Both a round brilliant and cushion cut diamond have 58 facets. While round brilliants have the most sparkle and fire of all the shapes, cushion cuts, in comparison, come pretty close. Since both cuts are brilliant cuts, they have the most refraction of any other types of diamond cuts.

When it comes to appearance, round brilliant diamonds will always look the same–round. Cushion cuts, however, can be cut more square or more elongated. When cushion cuts are more square, they do tend to resemble round diamonds! With their soft, rounded edges, some square cushion cuts look very similar to round diamonds.

2.05 carat Cushion Diamond Yellow Gold Solitaire Ring

In comparison, when it comes to antique cuts, both round diamonds and cushion cuts have popular antique cut versions: the Old European and Old Mine. When it comes to antique cuts, they are characterized by chunkier facets and open culets.

2.05 carat Old Euro & 1.91 carat Antique Cushion Lab Diamond Duo

Ratio Comparison

The ratio difference between round diamonds and cushion cuts is fairly simple. Round diamonds there isn’t a range of ideal ratios as round diamonds should be perfectly symmetrical. In this case, the ideal ratio for all round cut diamonds should be 1:1 or 1:1.05 at the very most!

In comparison, for cushion cuts, it comes in a pleasant array of ratios, ranging from a squarish silhouette to a more elongated appearance that flatters the finger. At Lauren B, we offer elongated or rectangular cushion cuts with ratios up to 1:1.4.

However, when it comes to the average elongated cushion cut diamonds ratio is around 1:1.2 while the best ratio for a square cushion-cut is closer to 1:1.

Quality Comparison

A round brilliant diamond is excellent at hiding imperfections and color saturation. Comparatively, cushion cut diamonds are also excellent at hiding color saturation and inclusions.

We would recommend a minimum of J-I color and (eye-clean) SI2 clarity, depending on the exact diamond and other factors. As a reminder, it is always a good idea to see each diamond in person to assess as not all diamonds, inclusions, and/or grading labs are equal.

Making a Decision

Choosing between a round diamond and a cushion may pose a challenge, but our extensive loose diamond inventory gives you plenty of options. Our dedicated team of design consultants can make your decision making process a little easier. Of course, you are able to choose your center stone, customize your ring, and choose your preferred features to design the ring you’ve been dreaming of.

Can’t decide between the two? Feel free to browse our Instagram and Pinterest for inspiration!