Princess cut diamond buying guide

The princess cut diamond is one of the most popular diamond shapes, second only to the round brilliant cut. It is admired for its contemporary square shape and remarkable brilliance, offering a perfect blend of modern aesthetics and traditional sparkle. When considering what is a princess cut diamond, it’s essential to understand that it features a unique combination of step-cut facets on the pavilion and brilliant-cut facets on the crown, resulting in a diamond that sparkles with intense fire and scintillation.

Understanding what is the princess cut diamond involves recognizing its versatility in various jewelry settings, especially in engagement rings. The sharp, uncut corners of the princess-cut diamond contribute to its distinctive, edgy look, making it a favorite among those who seek a modern yet timeless piece of jewelry. Whether you’re comparing round vs princess cut diamonds or square cut vs princess cut, the princess cut stands out for its unique ability to retain more carat weight from the rough stone, providing better value per carat.

Cut quality: recommended proportions for princess cut diamonds

When evaluating a princess cut diamond, cut quality is paramount. Unlike other diamond shapes, the cut of a princess diamond greatly influences its brilliance and overall appearance. The recommended proportions for a princess brilliant cut diamond include a depth percentage of 64% to 75% and a table percentage of 67% to 72%. These proportions ensure that the diamond captures and reflects light effectively, resulting in the mesmerizing sparkle that the princess cut is known for.

The dimensions of princess cut diamonds should also be considered, particularly if you’re comparing different carat weights like a 2 carat princess cut diamond or a 5 carat diamond princess cut. The depth and table percentages, along with the length-to-width ratio, play a critical role in achieving the ideal balance between brilliance and the diamond’s overall face-up appearance.

What is the best color rating to choose for a princess diamond ring?

1Color is a crucial factor when selecting a princess cut diamond. The best color rating for a princess diamond ring typically falls within the G–H range on the GIA color scale. This range offers a near-colorless diamond that still appears white to the naked eye but at a more affordable price point compared to D–F rated diamonds.

Choosing the appropriate color rating also depends on the setting of the diamond. For instance, a princess cut diamond ring 1 carat set in white gold or platinum may require a higher color grade to avoid any noticeable yellow tint, whereas a princess cut diamond in a yellow or rose gold setting may allow for a lower color grade without sacrificing visual appeal.

What is the best size for a princess cut diamond?

The best size for a princess cut diamond depends on personal preference, budget, and the design of the jewelry piece. A 1 carat princess diamond ring is a popular choice, offering a balanced size that is both noticeable and elegant. However, if you’re looking for something more striking, a 2 carat princess cut diamond or a 5 carat princess cut diamond might be more suitable.

When considering princess cut diamond sizes, it’s essential to keep in mind that the square shape of the princess cut tends to make the diamond appear larger than other shapes of the same carat weight. The princess cut diamond size chart can be a helpful tool in visualizing how different carat weights will look on your finger, ensuring you make an informed decision.

Recommended clarity grades for princess brilliant c ut diamonds

Clarity is another critical factor when choosing a princess cut diamond. Due to the diamond’s faceting style, inclusions are more easily hidden in a princess cut compared to other shapes. Therefore, a clarity grade of VS1 or VS2 is often recommended, as it offers a clean appearance without the premium cost associated with higher grades like IF or VVS1.

For those considering larger stones, such as a 2 carat princess cut diamond engagement ring or a 4 ct princess cut engagement ring, a slightly higher clarity grade may be advisable to ensure that any inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. The princess cut diamond clarity is particularly important for maintaining the stone’s overall brilliance and fire.

How much does a princess brilliant cut diamond cost?

The cost of a princess brilliant cut diamond can vary significantly based on factors such as carat weight, color, clarity, and cut quality. For example, a 1 carat princess cut diamond might range from $3,000 to $6,000 depending on these characteristics. On the other hand, a 5 carat princess cut diamond could cost anywhere from $50,000 to $150,000 or more.

Understanding the princess cut diamond prices involves comparing the four Cs (carat, cut, color, and clarity) and determining which factors are most important to you. While larger diamonds like a 7 carat princess cut diamond ring or a 3 carat princess cut diamond ring can be quite expensive, smaller diamonds like a 1 carat princess cut diamond can offer excellent value if you prioritize cut quality and color.

My personal experiences of buying princess diamond rings

My journey of purchasing princess diamond rings has been both exciting and educational. Over the years, I’ve learned the importance of prioritizing cut quality above all else, as this significantly affects the diamond’s brilliance and overall appearance. Whether it’s a princess cut diamond ring 1 carat or a more substantial 2 carat princess cut diamond ring, ensuring the diamond is well-cut has always resulted in a beautiful and sparkling piece.

In my experience, the best princess cut diamond settings are those that protect the diamond’s corners, such as a V-prong setting or a bezel setting. These settings not only enhance the diamond’s appearance but also provide additional security, ensuring the diamond remains securely in place.

Do carats make a difference?

Carat weight is one of the most significant factors in determining a princess cut diamond’s price and appearance. A higher carat weight, such as a 2ct princess cut ring or a 5ct princess cut diamond ring, offers a more substantial and impressive look. However, it’s important to balance carat weight with other factors like cut quality and color to ensure the diamond remains brilliant and visually appealing.

For those on a budget, a 1 carat princess cut diamond or a 1 2 carat princess cut diamond ring can still provide a stunning appearance without the higher price tag associated with larger stones. Additionally, the square shape of the princess cut tends to make the diamond appear larger than other shapes, providing more visual impact for your investment.

Best engagement ring setting designs for princess cut diamonds

Choosing the best engagement ring setting for a princess cut diamond is crucial to showcasing its unique shape and brilliance. The most popular settings include the classic solitaire, halo, and three-stone settings. A princess cut diamond setting in a solitaire design allows the diamond to take center stage, emphasizing its sharp edges and modern shape.

Halo settings, where the center princess cut diamond is surrounded by smaller diamonds, add extra sparkle and can make the center stone appear larger. This setting is especially popular for those who want a bold and glamorous look. On the other hand, a three-stone setting offers a timeless appeal, with the princess cut diamond flanked by two smaller stones, symbolizing the past, present, and future of a relationship.

How much is a princess brilliant cut diamond?

The cost of a princess brilliant cut diamond is influenced by several factors, including carat weight, color, clarity, and cut quality. On average, you can expect to pay around $5,000 to $10,000 for a 1 carat princess diamond ring. Larger stones, such as a 3 carat princess cut diamond ring or a 4 carat princess cut diamond, can range from $20,000 to $100,000 or more, depending on the quality of the stone.

For those looking at smaller options, a 1 2 carat princess cut diamond ring or a 1 ct princess cut ring can offer excellent value, typically ranging from $3,000 to $7,000. It’s essential to compare prices across different jewelers and online platforms to find the best deal without compromising on quality.

Conclusion

Purchasing a princess cut diamond requires careful consideration of several factors, including cut quality, color, clarity, and carat weight. By prioritizing these elements, you can ensure that you select a diamond that is both beautiful and valuable. Whether you’re opting for a 1 carat princess cut diamond or a more substantial stone, the princess cut offers a timeless and versatile option that will be cherished for years to come.