Ultimate guide to princess cut engagement rings

Whether you’re  searching for the perfect engagement ring or simply brushing up your knowledge, knowing the difference between the different types of engagement ring cut and shape is essential. Learn everything you need to know about the stunning princess cut diamond from our ultimate guide today.

What is a princess cut diamond?

A princess cut diamond is one of the most popular ring shapes for engagement rings, following a round brilliant cut. This type of ring cut was developed in the 1960s and is typically a square shape, with an ideal length to width ratio of 1.0 to 1.03.

If the cut is perfectly executed, a princess cut diamond can be completely symmetrical – and allows the most amount of light to enter the stone compared to other types of diamond cuts. The view from the bottom or side of a princess cut diamond shows it to be a pyramid shape with bevelled sides that join together.

Princess cut Diamond Ring in Solitaire Setting

How valuable are princess cut diamonds?

Typically, princess cut diamonds are less expensive than round-cut diamonds. This is because princess cuts are easiest to cut from the rough, and leave the least waste – whereas, cutting a round-cut diamond would actually lose a lot more rough. To make a princess cut stone, it should be a case of slicing the rough into two pieces.

This means that princess cut rings typically cost around 30% less than a round cut of the same carat weight – as up to 80% of the raw diamond could remain in the cut and polished stone. A round brilliant cut diamond typically uses around 50%.

Brilliance of the princess cut

Another element to consider when looking for princess cut diamonds is assessing the brilliance of the stone. This refers to the level of white light return and pattern of contrast which is generated by the diamond. As princess cut diamonds are known for allowing the most light to enter when compared to other types of cut, it’s important to assess the brilliance level in your diamond. A stone with a strong amount of white light and contrast pattern is considered more aesthetically attractive to the naked eye – as a stone with patches of light but light leakages can give the diamond a grey overtone.

Princess cut Halo Diamond Ring in 18K White Gold setting

Which settings are popular for princess cut diamonds?

As one of the most popular choices for engagement rings, it’s important to consider the type of setting you will use for the stone, too. Princess cut engagement rings are often mounted as solitaries in four-prong settings, however, bezel settings are also a popular choice. These particular setting choices are great as they will help protect the corners of the stone from chipping.

Looking to purchase your own princess cut engagement ring? Choose from your favourite ring style, such as Halo, 3 stone or Vintage, and your desired metal from white gold to platinum. If you need any more information about princess cut rings, get in touch with a member of our expert team today. Alternatively, learn more from our full diamond buying guide.