Every couple desires to express their deep devotion and unwavering dedication to their significant other. Engagements are one such occasion to express their feelings through a significant piece of jewellery, i.e., a diamond engagement ring. Among various options, princess-cut diamonds stand out for their stylish and optimistic aura universally popular as the lover’s best choice for engagement.

Engagement rings serve as a symbol not only of a couple’s love but also of the individuality of the wearer. This is why you might be contemplating the purchase of a princess-cut engagement ring, as it offers a contemporary alternative to more conventional options. But before stepping into the selection arena, learning a bit about this type of ring can help you to make an informed choice.

A Little More About Princess-cut Diamond Rings

The term “princess cut” was initially used in the 1960s to refer to a different diamond cut, which is now known as the profile cut. The profile cut was developed by a diamond cutter named Arpad Nagy. However, the modern princess cut diamond, as we know it today, was coined in the 1970s by Betzalel Ambar, Ygal Perlman, and Israel Itzkowitz.

How do princess-cut diamonds look like?

Princess cut diamonds possess a square face with four beveled sides, resembling an inverted pyramid. This cut allows for brilliant sparkle due to its numerous facets. To learn more about princess cut diamonds, continue reading.

One of the notable characteristics of the princess-cut diamond is its remarkable sparkle. While a round brilliant cut diamond set in prongs provides the highest level of sparkle, the princess cut refracts a greater amount of light compared to other cuts such as baguette, radiant, or emerald cuts.

What is its size ratio?

A princess-cut diamond can vary in shape from square to rectangular, with the ratio determined by its length to width. For example, a princess-cut diamond with a ratio of 1.0 will be square, while a ratio of 1.2 will result in a more rectangular shape. The ratio determines the diamond’s appearance when viewed from above.

How many facets does it have?

Princess-cut diamonds typically feature either 57 or 76 facets, similar to round diamonds, resulting in brilliant sparkle while minimizing wasted material. Consequently, a princess diamond with the same carat weight as a round diamond will often be more affordable. The brilliance of a princess-cut diamond can sometimes mask inclusions, making it a more cost-effective option for budget-conscious buyers. 

Apart from the factors mentioned above, let’s look into two more important aspects that significantly influence the price of princess-cut engagement rings.

The 4 Cs of Princess Cut Diamond

Cut:

The princess diamond cut consists of facets ranging from 50 to 58, forming the diamond’s unique identity. It combines elements of the square cut and the round brilliant cut. It is crucial to examine a princess-cut diamond carefully before purchase, as the cut can vary in terms of squareness and rectangularity. The ideal face ratio for a princess cut diamond is 1:1 or 1:1.3.

Carat:

While princess-cut diamonds can range up to 10 carats, the most optimal choices for engagement rings are typically between 1 to 3 carats. Keep in mind that a 1-carat princess cut diamond can have a similar appearance to a conventional round brilliant diamond weighing 0.8 carats.

Clarity:

Princess cut diamonds typically have clarity grades within the range of VVS (Very, Very Slightly Included) and VS (Very Slightly Included). It is essential for a princess cut diamond to have a clarity grade of VVS or VS to maintain its visual appeal. Lower clarity grades (such as SI or I) may result in visible inclusions due to the diamond’s larger crown.

Color:

Similar to other diamonds, the color grading of princess-cut diamonds follows standard guidelines. Colors G and H are recommended for princess-cut diamonds. If you choose a diamond with a lower color grade, consider setting it in a way that minimizes the visibility of any yellow tint.

Princess Cut Diamond Settings

Selecting the right setting for a princess-cut diamond ring can enhance its beauty and protect the diamond’s edges, which are prone to chipping. Here are some popular settings that complement the brilliance of a princess-cut diamond:

• Solitaire: This setting focuses solely on the diamond, allowing it to shine brilliantly. Available in 6-prong or 4-prong options, it protects the diamond’s corners.
• Channel: Providing maximum protection to the central diamond, this setting features small diamonds set alongside the center diamond, adding extra brilliance.
• Halo: The halo setting creates the illusion of a larger and more brilliant central diamond. It surrounds the center diamond with smaller diamonds for added protection.
• Three Diamond: It features a main diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds on either side, giving the appearance of a larger engagement ring.
• Vintage: Vintage settings add a unique and royal touch, evoking nostalgia and lending a distinctive charm to the overall design.

Ensure the chosen setting provides sufficient protection for the princess-cut diamond, either fully encasing it or securing the four corners with a prong setting.

The Bottom Line

The princess-cut diamond serve as a modern and elegant choice for an engagement ring. Consider the 4 Cs and explore various diamond settings to find a princess-cut diamond that reflects your unique style and everlasting love.

For a wide variety of lab-grown diamond jewellery, including princess-cut diamond engagement rings, check out Jewelbox. From 50 cent solitaire princess rings to 1.4 carat princess rings in fancy and modern designs, we surely do have something for everyone. Shop now to make your engagement moment truly special with the brilliance of a diamond ring.