Modified Brilliant Diamond Rings

Modified brilliants describes a diamond which utilizes the 58 facets of the fiery round brilliant cut diamond in a shape that is not circular.  Popular modified brilliants include: the heart shaped, pear shaped, oval cut and marquise cut diamonds.

Oval Cut

The oval cut diamond is a great value, providing a larger stone with the light performance of the round brilliant cut diamond.  In addition to the unique shape and brilliance, the oval diamond’s elongation also provides a slimming effect on the hand.  Your oval shape may be long and slender or rounder and fuller.  Any choice in the oval should be based on personal preference.

Heart Shape

The romantically symbolic heart shaped diamond engagement ring is another one of the popular modified brilliants.  Look for symmetry in your heart shape, with the right side matching the left side and the bottom point aligning with the cleft atop the heart.  Like the uniquely shaped oval cut engagement rings, your personal preference should dictate if you prefer a more rounded heart or a longer and slender shape.

Pear Shape

Frequently referred to as a teardrop cut, the pear shaped diamond style is a hybrid of the marquise cut and the popular round brilliant cut diamond. One end will be perfectly rounded while the other will taper off to a delicate and sharp point.  This shape is typically worn with the sharp point towards the fingernail and like the oval or marquise, can create a lengthening effect on the hand.

Marquise Cut

The marquise cut diamond ring will contain a stone with a large crown surface area and is an excellent choice for those who desire a visually larger stone without the price tag of a larger diamond.  This ellipsoid shape will taper off sharply on both ends, which should align perfectly.  The normal configuration for this diamond is with the points facing North-South, but is also beautiful and unique setting the ends in an East-West configuration as seen in the image below-right.