Cushion cut diamonds have become popular among shoppers because they offer two features many love: a square shape with soft corners. Cushion cut diamonds have a square shape with rounded corners and can be worn in many different ring styles and settings.
Jewelers have taken the cushion cut diamond to the next level by elongating it—which has proven to be a success among shoppers. If you’ve never considered purchasing an elongated cushion cut diamond, we’ve got the pros, cons, tips, and tricks you’ll need to know before you get started!
What Is an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond?
A traditional cushion cut diamond has a square shape with rounded corners. It looks like a softer version of a princess-cut diamond. An elongated cushion cut diamond is long with a more rectangular shape and has soft corners that resemble a pillow.
The standard ratio of a traditional cushion cut diamond is 1:1. With an elongated cushion cut diamond, the ratio will be more than 1:1. It can be 1:1, 1:1.5, 1:2, or more. It is considered an elongated cushion cut diamond if it doesn’t have a perfect 1:1 square ratio.
The style you choose is a matter of personal preference. If you want the diamond to be slightly longer than a square, you should choose a cushion cut diamond with a ratio of 1:1.1, whereas if you want the diamond to resemble a rectangle, you should choose a 1:1.5 ratio or more.
Pros of Choosing an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond
There is a lot to love about the elongated cushion cut diamond. These are some of the advantages.
Affordable
An elongated cushion cut diamond is typically more affordable than a princess cut or a round-cut diamond. A round-cut diamond is often the most expensive diamond you can choose from a jeweler. Choosing an elongated cushion cut diamond is more affordable and will give you a similar look to a round-cut diamond.
Soft Edges
The soft edges of an elongated cushion cut diamond mean it is less likely to chip or break as it is worn. This also means less protection for choosing specific settings to keep the diamond safe. You can choose the setting you want without having to make sure it protects the diamond.
Excellent Fire
An elongated cushion cut diamond has between 58 to 64 facets, giving it excellent fire. Fire is the sparkle that shines when light hits the diamond. The cuts in an elongated cushion cut diamond give it excellent fire, which can make the diamond look brilliant, bigger, and bright.
Classic and Elegant
The size and shape of an elongated cushion cut diamond give it a classic and elegant look that won’t go out of style. It will remain timeless, classic, and elegant.
Cons of Choosing an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond
There are disadvantages to choosing an elongated cushion cut diamond—especially if color and clarity are the most important features of your diamond.
Size
An elongated cushion cut diamond can appear smaller than diamonds with the same carat weight because much of the diamond’s size comes from underneath the surface. Don’t be surprised if you notice an elongated cushion cut diamond appears smaller than a round-cut diamond with the same carat weight.
Tips and Tricks for Choosing the Best Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond
Considering the pros and cons, here are some tips and tricks you need to keep in mind when choosing an elongated cushion cut diamond.
Elongated Fingers
Do you want a diamond to elongate your fingers? This is arguably the biggest advantage of choosing an elongated cushion cut diamond. The long, skinny diamond makes your fingers seem longer and will transform how your hand looks while wearing the ring.
Diamond Setting
If your heart is set on a specific diamond engagement ring setting, you may want to ensure it will work with an elongated cushion cut diamond.
The best setting for an elongated cushion cut diamond is a classic 4-prong setting or a halo setting. These two settings will accentuate the center stone to put all of the focus on the elongated cushion cut diamond.
If you prefer a bezel setting for your diamond engagement ring, you shouldn’t choose an elongated cushion cut diamond because it can make the diamond appear smaller and reduce the amount of fire that shines from the diamond.
Conclusion
We hope that has helped you better understand elongated cushion cut diamonds and why you may or may not want to choose one for your engagement ring.
