💠 Cushion Shape

Romantic, Vintage, and Full of Fire

✨ Introduction: Old-World Charm Meets Modern Sparkle

The cushion cut is where antique romance meets contemporary brilliance. With its soft, pillow-like shape and rounded corners, it’s one of the most versatile and beloved diamond shapes—especially for those drawn to vintage style with a modern twist.

Available in both square and elongated variations, cushion cut diamonds offer a dreamy aesthetic, brilliant light performance, and a distinctly romantic feel.

💡 A favourite of collectors, romantics, and vintage lovers—cushion cuts are as timeless as they are unique.

🕰️ A Cut with History

One of the oldest diamond shapes still in use today, the cushion cut has a long and sparkling past:

🧾 Timeline Highlights:

• 1700s–1800s: Known as the “old mine cut”, it was the go-to diamond shape before modern cutting tools
• 19th century: Cushion cuts appear in royal and aristocratic jewels
• Early 1900s: Popular in Edwardian and Art Deco eras
• 2000s–present: Revived with modern brilliant-cut faceting for extra fire

📚 The cushion cut blends antique soul with modern sparkle—making it perfect for heirlooms, vintage-inspired rings, or romantic proposals.

🎯 Why Choose a Cushion Cut?

• 🔥 Exceptional fire – thanks to its large facets and soft brilliance
• 🎨 Distinct personality – no two cushion cuts are quite the same
• 🖐️ Soft silhouette – flattering on all hand types
• 🎞️ Vintage feel, modern adaptability – works in both antique and contemporary settings
• 💶 Better value – generally more affordable than round brilliants per carat

💎 Square Cushion vs Elongated Cushion

Square Cushion – Ratio: 1

Elongated Cushion – Ratio: 1.5

Cushion cut diamonds vary widely in length-to-width ratio, allowing buyers to personalise the look.

🟪 Square Cushion Cut

• Ratio: ~1.00–1.05 (Learn more about diamond ratio here)
• Style: Balanced, traditional, vintage-inspired
• Best For: Halos, Art Deco settings, classic solitaires
• Vibe: Soft and symmetrical
• Popular Among: Lovers of traditional engagement ring styles

✨ A square cushion has that classic, old-world look with just enough sparkle to feel modern.

🔲 Elongated Cushion Cut

• Ratio: ~1.10–1.30 (Learn more about diamond ratio here)
• Style: More rectangular, sleek and elegant
• Best For: Solitaires, east-west settings, contemporary bands
• Vibe: Finger-lengthening, modern edge with vintage heart
• Popular Among: Fans of oval and radiant cuts seeking something softer

💡 Elongated cushions offer more finger coverage and a unique twist on the traditional look.

🌟 Celebrities with Cushion Cut Rings

This shape has charmed its way onto the hands of some high-profile names:

• 💍 Kim Kardashian (first engagement) – massive cushion diamond in a halo
• 💍 Sofia Vergara – classic cushion cut with pavé band
• 💍 Gabrielle Union – bold cushion solitaire in a sleek setting
• 💍 Zendaya – elongated cushion diamonds worn at royal events

🌟 Its timeless beauty continues to dazzle across red carpets and royal courts.

💠 Cushion Cut in Ring Designs

🧠 Buying Tips & Quality Considerations

Cushion cuts come in brilliant and modified brilliant facet patterns—some sparkle like round brilliants, others have a “crushed ice” look. Ask your jeweller which you prefer.

✅ What to Look For:

• Clarity: VS2–SI1 often eye-clean
• Colour: G–H ideal for white metals; I–J fine in warmer golds
• Cut Quality: No GIA cut grade—rely on proportions and light return
• Length-to-Width:
  • 1.00–1.05 = square
  • 1.10–1.30 = elongated

📊 Cushion vs Other Diamond Shapes

💬 FAQs – Cushion Cut Edition

✅ Pros & Cons of Cushion Cut Diamonds

✅ Pros:

• Romantic, vintage look
• Versatile in design styles
• Customisable in shape and facet style
• Excellent fire and personality
• More affordable per carat than rounds

⚠️ Cons:

• No official GIA cut grade—rely on expert advice
• Facet patterns vary—know if you prefer “crushed ice” or classic
• Slightly less brilliance than round or oval cuts

Mitigation Tip: View several cushion cuts side-by-side, and request videos or in-person inspections to assess sparkle and shape symmetry.

🏁 Final Thought: A Shape with Soul

The cushion cut diamond is for those who value romance, character, and timeless beauty. Whether square and regal or elongated and modern, its soft edges and fiery heart make it an enduring favourite for generations.

Martin Commins

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