Jewelry for the Holidays

As you set about the task of designing your engagement rings, one key decision you'll have to make is which cut to choose for the gemstones. While the idea of a 'cut' of any gemstone may be well-known, the specifics of how to choose a cut and what they add to the mix are often unfamiliar. To help you design the perfect rings for you and your fiancé, here are a few ways cut impacts your chosen gem. 

1. Shape and Cut Are Intertwined

The general shape you want is the basis for which cuts you can choose. Emerald cut, with its stepped sides, is generally used for rectangular finished appearances. And both the princess cut and radiant cut result in a square shape. In turn, though, if you want a particular cut, you may be limited to which shapes can achieve it. The briolette cut is an example of a cut that is achieved from its unique teardrop form. 

2. Cut Boosts the Gem's Strengths

You can use cut to emphasize the right elements of any gem. Some stones — such as opal or agate — are most valued for their inherent designs and color schemes. These may be molded into a rounded style known as cabochon, which highlights what's inside rather than working to increase light or sparkle. 

The type of cut and numbers of facets can also help you make the most of a lower quality gem. Brilliant cuts are popular due to their ability to maximize the play of light to make any gem sparkle brighter. Is yours not quite the color you want? The divine cut could help make it appear better. And a stone with high clarity benefits from emerald cuts that let this element shine. 

3. Facet Numbers Create Sparkle

Cuts are generally made to create facets, or straight sections of the gem. The number of these facets has a large impact on how the stone looks. Princess cuts can have up to 78 facets, increasing the colors and interactions in both flat areas and corners. Trillion cuts, on the other hand, use as little as 31 facets to achieve their levels of brilliance. And cushion cuts use fewer but larger facets to highlight the stone's clarity. 

By understanding how cuts affect the finished gem's shape, color, clarity, and sparkle, you will be able to choose the right mix on any budget. Want to know more about cutting the gems you want in your rings? Ready to design your own engagement rings? Start by meeting with an experienced jeweler in your area today.