A princess cut diamond is a square-shaped diamond with sharp corners and a brilliant facet arrangement, offering exceptional sparkle. It is the second most popular diamond shape after the brilliant round cut, loved for its modern elegance and geometric symmetry. With 57 or 58 facets, the princess cut maximizes light reflection, creating brilliance that rivals round diamonds. Its clean lines and contemporary look make it a popular choice for engagement rings.

History of Princess Cut Diamonds

The princess cut was first introduced in 1979 by Betzalel Ambar and Israel Itzkowitz, who aimed to create a square-cut diamond that maintained the brilliance of a round cut. Inspired by older square cuts like the French and Quadrillion cuts, the princess cut quickly gained popularity for its ability to combine a modern aesthetic with remarkable sparkle. Today, it remains one of the top choices for those seeking a sleek, sophisticated look.

How Do You Choose a Princess Cut Diamond?

GIA does not assign a cut grade for fancy shapes so look for a princess cut with excellent symmetry and polish to ensure optimal light performance. Ideal proportions include a length-to-width ratio between 1.00 and 1.05 for a perfect square. Princess cuts tend to show more color in the corners. Opt for a grade of G-H for a near-colorless appearance that balances beauty and value. Because of their faceting, Princess cuts can hide inclusions better than step cuts like emerald or asscher. Eye-clean (VS1-VS2 clarity) typically, offers the best combination of quality and price. Lastly, princess cuts retain more of the rough diamond during cutting, making them a more cost-effective option compared to Round Brilliant diamonds of the same carat weight.

Why Choose a Princess Cut Diamond?

As the second most popular diamond shape, the princess cut appeals to those who love a modern, edgy look. Making their mark on Hollywood, celebrities like Victoria Beckham and Nicky Hilton have been sighted sporting princess cut engagement rings.

Using more of the rough diamond, princess cuts result in less waste and lower cost—typically 20-30% less than a Round Cut of similar quality. Its clean, symmetrical lines make it a versatile choice to pair with various settings, from classic solitaires to intricate halo designs. Just keep in mind that the sharp corners of a Princess Cut are prone to chipping if not properly protected by prongs or a bezel setting, making a secure setting essential.