5 MOST POPULAR CUTS OF DIAMOND FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING

You have decided that you found The One. Never have two people belonged together as much as the two of you and the only thing left to do is pop the question. Finding the perfect diamond for your engagement ring isn't always as obvious as finding your soulmate. With so many options and styles to choose from - and with a major life change riding on it - the cut of your diamond is a very important decision you will make for the ring.

Not sure where to begin? Our team at Hamra Jewelers is here to help. Here are the 5 most popular cuts of diamond for your engagement ring.

Round Brilliant Cut

Round stones (also known as brilliant cut) are the most popular choice for engagement rings and have been a favorite for years. The facets of this cut refract the most light possible, making it one of the most brilliant (no pun intended) looks you can choose for your bride to be. This traditional look is a classic that has truly stood the test of time.

Cushion Cut

The cushion cut first surfaced in the late 1800's and was popular through the 1930's. During the mid 1900's the cut became rarer. In the last 10 years, it was one of the most purchased cuts of diamond. A cushion cut derives its name from its distinct pillow shape that falls somewhere between a round and a rectangle shaped stone. It typically has fewer facets than a round brilliant cut, which makes it harder to maintain a perfect white color. This cut tends to be popular with colored diamonds.

Radiant Cut

Since the 1970's, the radiant cut diamond has increased in popularity. The radiant is considered a hybrid of an emerald cut and a round brilliant cut diamond. The shape of these cuts range from square to elongated - perfect for long slender fingers.

Oval Cut

Oval cut diamonds have been around for years but have increasingly become more popular. The engagement of Prince William and Kate Middleton in 2010 threw oval shaped engagement rings into the spotlight, where they exploded in demand. Aside from the royal connection, oval cut diamond rings also come with a distinct advantage over other cuts - they have a larger surface area than a round stone of the same carat weight so they often appear larger than they actually are.

Princess Cut

Princess cut diamonds are one of the most popular shapes of diamonds. This cut is a fairly new shape as its only been around since the 1960's. The facets bear some similarities to a round brilliant cut, but rather than a conical downward face, a princess cut's downward face resembles a pyramid with four sides.