The cushion cut is the most diverse and varied diamond cut out there. When looking at cushions, the first thing to keep in mind that even when looking at similar carat weight, color, and clarity stones, each will be different from the next.  This is why it is imperative to see the diamond in person, or via video/photo, prior to purchasing and comparing it with a few different options so you can see what you like best.  Here are a few reasons why each cushion cut is so unique:

The first major characteristic of cushions is whether you prefer a square or elongated rectangular stone. This is just a matter of personal preference, as square versus elongated cushions each create two totally different looks. Elongated stones tend to take up more space on the finger creating the illusion of elongating the finger or hand. Square cushions tend to create a similar look to what round brilliant cuts do, just a symmetrical square instead of round. Be sure to specify!

The most important and varied characteristic is that cushion cuts have three main cutting styles: Antique, Modified Brilliant, and Modern Brilliant. Antique cushion refers to the look of an old cut, or old mine cut cushion. This style is defined by large pavilion facets, medium to large culet, table percentages lower than 53%, and high crown angles and noticeable culets. When you look at this cut, the flashes of light appear larger or more broad, creating a sharp brilliance as opposed to lots and lots of small flashes. This cut is great for those who like something a little more unique and different. It has character and a vintage feel to it.

The most popular cushion cut today is the Modified brilliant. 98 percent of all cushions are classified under this cut and it has many variations. Modified cuts are defined by having 4 pavilion main facets. This allowed the cutter of the stone to retain more weight, which equates to higher value. Each individual stones’ proportions will determine how brilliant it is overall. When looking at modified cuts, some stones can appear to have what is called “crushed ice” where the center of the stones facets can look blended together. The alternative is a modified stone that has longer pavilion facets, making them appear sharper and more definitive to give you the look of a “cushion brilliant”. The look you want to achieve is a matter of preference and we can help you find exactly the one you are looking for.

Finally, there is the modern Cushion Brilliant. This style of cushion is modeled after the round brilliant, so like the round, it will have 8 pavilion main facets. This cut is focused more on maximizing brilliance versus maximizing carat weight, so the faceting style is very sharp, well defined, and can rival the brilliance of a round stone. While this cut is out there, they are difficult to come by and can often fetch a premium do to their superb cut quality. While they exist in elongated cuts, the more symmetrical or square the stone is, the easier it is to achieve a precision cut, taking brilliance to the extreme.  Another great plus is that this cutting style will give you a larger face up appearance than the modified brilliant because there is less hidden weight underneath.

Since cushions are so varied and searching through ever-changing inventory requires detailed specification, allow us to help you outline the look you would like to achieve.  Because the last two types of cushion cut (antique and brilliant cut) do not maximize the weight of the rough diamond, these stones will be priced higher than modified cuts. No matter your preference, our experts are very skilled in interpreting and finding exactly the look you want. Consider us the cushion experts!