Shapes of Diamonds - Cushion Cut

The Cushion Cut diamond is an antique style that is a blend of several different shapes including round, oval and princess. It can be found in either square or rectangular shapes and is often referred to as a pillow-cut for it resembles an overstuffed pillow or cushion.

Cushion cut diamonds initially gained popularity during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. At the time, they were commonly referred to as Candlelight Cuts due to the fact they were cut in such a way as to maximize brilliance under candlelit conditions, as the light bulb did not yet exist.

The Cushion Cut has fewer facets than most other shapes and the facets are larger, so with this shape clarity is of importance as inclusions will be more easily visible to the naked eye.

Length to width ratio: A cushion cut with a length to width ratio of less than or equal to 1.05:1 will appear square to the observer. While a squarer diamond is the preference of many, some people prefer a slightly rectangular-shaped cushion diamond with length to width ratios of 1.15:1 to 1.30:1.