What Is A Cushion Cut Diamond?

Widely known as the ‘mine cut’ or ‘old mine cut’, the Cushion cut diamond got its name from its shape, which looks like a pillow. A cushion cut diamond has a loose shape that varies from square to rectangle. People get mostly confused with cushion cut and princess cut diamond because of their shape, but their difference is that the cushion cut diamond has a round edge. Although round cut diamond is obviously more brilliant, cushion cut diamond is still one of the most popular and demanded diamond cuts. So, if you are planning to buy a cushion cut diamond, here is everything you need to know.

The History Of Cushion Cut Diamond

The cushion cut diamond originated back in the 19th century. It did not have its name back in that era. It is first called ‘mine cut’ and eventually called the ‘old mine cut.’ The traditional mine cut diamond started with a square shape and round corners. It got its original name from the Brazilian diamond mines, where it primarily comes from. Later on, South Africa flourished with diamonds from its local mining areas, and the Brazilian mines were called old mines. So, after the Brazilian mines changed their names, the mine cut diamond got its name changed too.

What Are the Characteristics of the Cushion Cut Diamond?

The traditional mine cut diamond has a slight difference from the modern Cushion cut diamond. It is because of the increasing demand in the market for new diamond cuts. The traditional mine cut diamond has 33 crown facets and 25 pavilion facets, for a total of 58 facets. In comparison, the new and improved modern cushion cut has 64 facets. Essentially, the modern Cushion cut diamond is a combination of the old mine cut and the modern oval cut diamond. But what sets apart a Cushion cut diamond from its old mine diamond is its brilliance. Because of the addition in the number of its facets, it appears more brilliant than its old mine counterparts.

What Are The Different Cushion Cut Diamond Ring Settings?

The modern Cushion cut diamond fits into many kinds of ring settings. Here are some of the Cushion cut diamond ring settings that you might consider for your engagement ring.

• One of the best settings for Cushion cut diamonds is the 4 Prong ring settings. It is a ring setting that holds the Cushion cut diamond securely in place without blocking the light from passing through and showing its brilliance. This ring setting highlights the brilliance of the Cushion cut diamond and brings out its fire qualities.

• For rectangular Cushion cut diamond, 6 Prong settings will do. The 6 Prong settings have a double claw that holds a longer cut or rectangular diamond cut. If you want a longer cut of center stone, you can choose the 6 Prong settings with a Cushion cut diamond.
• In the early years of Cushion cut diamond, bezel setting was the primary option of Cushion cut diamond enthusiasts. While it is an elegant engagement ring setting, the bezel setting slightly blocks the light from passing through the center stone. It does not display an intense level of brilliance and sparkle.

• The solitaire ring setting is probably the best among all ring settings for Cushion cut diamond. In a solitaire ring setting, the Cushion cut diamond is highlighted as the only gemstone in the ring. Its cuts and brilliance are held firmly and highlighted in this setting.

What To Look For When Buying Cushion Cut Diamond?

Indeed, you want to invest in a Cushion cut diamond that has excellent quality, compliant with the globally accepted standards for diamonds and other gemstones. There is an ideal, excellent, and very good cut. Here is a guide to the cut and brilliance of excellent quality Cushion cut diamonds.

If you want the highest quality of Cushion cut diamond, you can choose the ideal cut Cushion cut diamond. Here are the important details you need to look for an ideal Cushion cut diamond:

• 61% to 68% depth
• 55% to 65% table
• Thin to thick girdle
• No cutlet
• Excellent Polish
• Excellent Symmetry
• Non-Fluorescent

For an excellent Cushion cut diamond, here are the qualities you need to look for:

• 61% to 68% depth
• 55% to 65% table
• Thin to thick girdle
• No cutlet
• Excellent to Very Good Polish
• Excellent to Very Good Symmetry
• Non to medium fluorescence

If you are looking for a very good quality Cushion cut diamond without spending too much, here are the qualities you should look for:

• 59% to 60.9% or 68.1% to 70% depth
• 52% to 54.9% or 65.1% to 68% table
• Very thin to Extremely thick girdle
• No culet 
• Excellent to a very good polish
• Excellent to very good symmetry
• Non to strong fluorescence

Pros And Cons Of Cushion Cut Diamond

Pros

• Cushion cut diamond has a high level of brilliance and displays fire qualities.
• Cushion cut diamond has a unique shape that is perfect for personalized engagement rings.
• Cushion cut diamond is highly durable because of its round edges.
• Cushion cut diamond combines modern flair with a classic style.

Cons

• Cushion cut diamond retains colors better than other shapes. So, you should buy an H or better color grade, which is likely more expensive.
• Cushion cut diamond is an open table cut, where inclusions and imperfections are easier to see.
• Cushion cut diamond has a lot of market names, which makes it confusing. There is modified, classic, chunky, and other variation of Cushion cut diamonds.

Should You Purchase A Cushion Cut Diamond?

Yes, you should buy a Cushion cut diamond because its brilliance and fire qualities will add elegance to your style. It is also perfect for personalized engagement rings, and its versatility fits almost every setting. It is also durable because of its round edges. It has a clear surface, which makes inclusion easily noticeable. Hence, you will know that the piece you are buying has a high clarity grade. Although round cut diamond is more brilliant, Cushion cut diamond serves enough brilliance and clarity with a low per carat price. Cushion cut diamond is indeed a good investment.

Where Should You Purchase A Cushion Cut Diamond?

You should buy a Cushion cut diamond from a jeweler you personally know. Ensure that the jewelry shop is certified by the Gemological Institute of America or what is well-known as the GIA. GIA-certified jewelers are guaranteed skilled, and you can be sure that they offer the best quality of Cushion cut diamond. Ask for licenses and other certifications if they do not have a GIA certificate. It is very important to make sure that you are buying from a legitimate diamond cutter or jeweler.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Cushion cut diamonds give you the kind of brilliance that is enough to add elegance and glamour to your style. Compared to other brilliant diamond cuts, it has a lower cost per carat. Investing in Cushion cut diamonds is a way to save money without sacrificing the quality of your jewelry investment. With Cushion cut diamonds, you have a variety of choices that gives you specific qualities. So, if you are looking for a sign to buy your Cushion cut diamond jewelry, this is it.