Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut: Which Lab-Grown Diamond Shape Is Right For You?
When shopping for the perfect lab-grown diamond, the cut you choose dramatically influences both the appearance and character of your gem. Among the most popular choices today are the geometric precision of the Princess Cut and the romantic softness of the Cushion Cut. At Labrilliante, we understand that choosing between these two stunning options can be challenging, which is why we've created this comprehensive guide to help you make an informed decision that matches your personal style and preferences.
Both cuts offer distinctive beauty and unique characteristics that appeal to different tastes. Whether you're drawn to the contemporary brilliance of the Princess Cut or the classic charm of the Cushion Cut, this guide will walk you through everything you need to know before making your decision.
The Modern Elegance of Princess Cut Diamonds
The Princess Cut diamond holds a special place in modern jewelry design, having been developed in the 1960s but only gaining its current name and widespread popularity in the 1980s. This relatively young cut has quickly become the second most popular diamond shape for engagement rings, trailing only behind the classic round brilliant.
At Labrilliante, our Princess Cut lab-grown diamonds feature a distinctive square or rectangular shape when viewed from above, with a pyramid-like structure underneath. The cut typically contains 76 facets—significantly more than many other popular cuts—arranged in a pattern that maximizes the diamond's natural brilliance. This complex faceting structure creates a stunning interplay of light, producing exceptional sparkle from every angle.
What truly sets the Princess Cut apart is its remarkable ability to combine the brilliance of a round diamond with a contemporary geometric shape. The square profile with sharp corners gives these diamonds a modern, architectural appeal that resonates with those seeking a fresh, distinctive look. When properly cut, a Princess diamond displays an X-shaped pattern of light reflection that adds to its unique visual character.
At Labrilliante, we recommend Princess Cut diamonds with a length-to-width ratio between 1.0 (perfectly square) and 1.05 for the most balanced appearance, though some clients prefer the slightly elongated rectangular look that ratios up to 1.3 can provide.
Why Choose a Princess Cut? Advantages and Considerations
Advantages of Princess Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds
At Labrilliante, we find that Princess Cut diamonds offer several compelling benefits that make them a popular choice among our discerning customers:
- Exceptional Brilliance: The numerous facets and cutting pattern of Princess Cut diamonds create extraordinary sparkle and light performance, rivaling even the brilliance of round diamonds.
- Value Proposition: Princess Cut diamonds typically cost 20-30% less than round brilliants of comparable carat weight and quality, offering excellent value for your investment.
- Efficient Cutting Process: The Princess Cut wastes less of the original diamond crystal during cutting compared to round diamonds, allowing us to offer more affordable pricing on our lab-grown diamonds.
- Modern Aesthetic: The clean lines and geometric shape provide a contemporary look that appeals to those with modern tastes.
- Versatility in Settings: Princess Cuts work beautifully in virtually any setting style, from solitaires to halos to three-stone designs.
Considerations for Princess Cut Diamonds
When choosing a Princess Cut diamond from Labrilliante, keep these factors in mind:
- Corner Protection: The pointed corners of Princess Cut diamonds may be vulnerable to chipping if not properly protected by the setting. We recommend protective prongs or bezels that secure these corners.
- Cut Quality Importance: The quality of cut significantly affects a Princess diamond's brilliance. At Labrilliante, we ensure optimal proportions for maximum light return.
- Color Visibility: Princess Cuts may show color more readily than some other cuts, particularly in the corners. For this reason, we often recommend selecting an F color or higher for the best appearance.
- Size Appearance: Princess Cuts can appear slightly smaller from the top view than round diamonds of the same carat weight because more of their weight is distributed in their depth.
Why Choose a Cushion Cut? Advantages and Considerations
Advantages of Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds
At Labrilliante, our customers often select Cushion Cut diamonds for these compelling benefits:
- Exceptional Fire: Cushion Cuts produce magnificent colored light dispersion (fire), creating beautiful rainbow flashes that many find captivating.
- Timeless Appeal: With roots dating back three centuries, the Cushion Cut offers classic elegance that transcends fleeting trends.
- Forgiving of Inclusions: The faceting pattern of Cushion Cuts can help mask minor inclusions, potentially allowing for a lower clarity grade without visible imperfections.
- Rounded Corners: Unlike Princess Cuts, Cushion diamonds have no sharp corners that could chip, making them more durable for everyday wear.
- Variety of Looks: From "chunky" cushions with broader flashes to "crushed ice" cushions with more sparkle, this cut offers diverse aesthetic options.
- Excellent Value: Cushion Cuts typically cost less than round brilliants of comparable size and quality, providing excellent value for lab-grown diamonds.
Considerations for Cushion Cut Diamonds
When exploring Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds at Labrilliante, keep these factors in mind:
- Less Brilliance: While they excel in fire, Cushion Cuts generally offer less pure white light return (brilliance) than Princess or Round cuts.
- Color Retention: Cushion Cuts tend to retain more color than some other cuts, making color grade an important consideration.
- Size Perception: Cushion Cuts may appear smaller than Princess Cuts of the same carat weight due to their depth and faceting style.
- Cut Variations: Significant variation exists among Cushion Cuts, making careful selection important to get your preferred look.
Head-to-Head: Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds
When comparing these two exquisite cuts offered at Labrilliante, understanding their key differences helps you select the perfect lab-grown diamond for your needs. Below, we present a comprehensive comparison to highlight how these cuts diverge in appearance, performance, and overall characteristics.
Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds: A Comprehensive Comparison
| Feature | Princess Cut | Cushion Cut |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Square/rectangular with sharp corners | Square/rectangular with rounded corners |
| Facets | Typically 76 facets | Typically 58 facets |
| Visual Effect | Brilliant sparkle with flashes of light | More fire (colored light) with broader flashes |
| Origin | Modern (1960s-1980s) | Historic (1700s) |
| Style | Contemporary, geometric | Vintage, romantic |
| Durability | Vulnerable corners require protection | More durable due to rounded corners |
| Apparent Size | Can appear larger from top view | May appear smaller due to depth |
| Price Value | Excellent value (20-30% less than round) | Very good value (25-35% less than round) |
| Color Retention | Moderate color retention | Higher color retention |
| Inclusion Masking | Good | Excellent |
Light Performance Differences
At Labrilliante, we find that the light performance of these two cuts creates their most noticeable distinction. Princess Cut lab-grown diamonds excel in brilliance—the white light return that creates that eye-catching sparkle. Their numerous, precisely arranged facets create a "pin-fire" effect with many small, bright flashes.
In contrast, our Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds emphasize fire—the colored light dispersion that produces rainbow flashes. Their larger facets create broader, more dramatic color flashes when viewed under light sources.
Modern vs Vintage Appeal
Princess Cuts embody contemporary aesthetic with their clean lines and geometric precision. When set in minimalist settings, they create a distinctly modern look that appeals to those with forward-looking tastes.
Cushion Cuts offer a connection to jewelry history with their classic, romantic appearance. At Labrilliante, we often pair our Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds with vintage-inspired settings to emphasize their timeless charm, though they also look stunning in modern designs.
Price and Value Considerations
Both cuts offer excellent value compared to round diamonds of similar specifications. At Labrilliante, our Princess Cut lab-grown diamonds typically save customers 20-30% compared to rounds, while our Cushion Cuts often provide savings of 25-35%. This price advantage stems from more efficient cutting processes that preserve more of the original crystal.
Perfect Pairings: Ideal Settings for Princess and Cushion Cut Diamonds
The right setting enhances the beauty of your lab-grown diamond while reflecting your personal style. At Labrilliante, we've found that certain settings work particularly well with each of these popular cuts.
Best Settings for Princess Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds
Channel Settings Princess Cut diamonds fit perfectly within channel settings due to their square shape. These settings feature diamonds set side by side between two metal channels, creating a sleek, continuous line of sparkle without prongs. This design not only showcases the diamond's brilliance but also protects the vulnerable corners.
V-Prong Settings V-shaped prongs are specifically designed to protect the vulnerable corners of Princess Cut diamonds. At Labrilliante, our V-prong settings cradle each corner of the diamond, providing maximum protection while allowing maximum light exposure.
Halo Settings Princess Cut diamonds create a striking geometric contrast when surrounded by a halo of smaller round diamonds. This setting style enhances the apparent size of the center stone and adds extra sparkle to the overall appearance.
Best Settings for Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds
Vintage-Inspired Settings The historical roots of the Cushion Cut make it an ideal match for vintage-inspired settings featuring milgrain detailing, filigree work, or pavé accents. At Labrilliante, we craft settings that honor this heritage while incorporating modern durability.
Halo Settings Cushion Cut diamonds look particularly stunning in halo settings, where their soft corners complement the rounded appearance of the surrounding diamonds. This combination enhances the diamond's size appearance and adds additional fire and sparkle.
Three-Stone Settings The romantic nature of Cushion Cut diamonds makes them perfect centerpieces for three-stone settings, which symbolize a couple's past, present, and future. Pair a Cushion with round, pear, or smaller cushion side stones for a balanced, meaningful design.
Universal Setting Options
Both Princess and Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds from Labrilliante look exceptional in these versatile settings:
Solitaire Settings The timeless solitaire allows either cut to take center stage. For Princess Cuts, we recommend four-prong settings that secure the corners, while Cushion Cuts look beautiful with either four or six prongs.
Bezel Settings For maximum protection and a sleek, modern look, bezel settings encircle the diamond's edge with metal. This setting style works beautifully with both cuts and is ideal for active lifestyles.
Finding Your Perfect Match: How to Select Between Princess and Cushion Cut
Choosing between a Princess Cut and a Cushion Cut lab-grown diamond ultimately comes down to personal preference, but several key factors can help guide your decision. At Labrilliante, we encourage customers to consider these important elements when making their choice:
Personal Style Assessment
The most crucial factor in your decision should be your personal aesthetic preferences:
- For Contemporary Tastes: If you're drawn to modern, geometric designs with clean lines and maximum sparkle, the Princess Cut likely aligns with your style sensibilities.
- For Romantic Sensibilities: If you appreciate vintage-inspired designs with softer edges and romantic appeal, the Cushion Cut may be your ideal match.
- For Unique Character: Consider which visual effect you prefer—the brilliant sparkle of a Princess Cut or the colorful fire of a Cushion Cut.
Finger Shape and Size Considerations
The shape of your fingers can influence how each cut appears when worn:
- For Shorter Fingers: Elongated Cushion Cuts (rectangular rather than square) can create an illusion of length.
- For Longer Fingers: Square Princess Cuts or square Cushion Cuts often provide balanced proportions.
- For Wider Fingers: Larger stones or wider settings like halos complement the proportions nicely.
Finding Your Perfect Match
Princess Cut
Modern & Geometric
- Square or rectangular shape with pointed corners
- Contemporary, geometric appearance
- Maximum brilliance and sparkle
- Clean, sharp lines
- Modern aesthetic preferences
- Maximizing apparent size per carat
- Brilliant white light reflection
- Office professionals seeking versatile style
- Pointed corners require protective settings
- More susceptible to chipping at corners
- Requires more attention to cut quality
- Modern look may not suit vintage settings
Cushion Cut
Soft & Romantic
- Square or rectangular with rounded corners
- Vintage-inspired, pillow-like appearance
- Enhanced fire and color dispersion
- Soft, romantic silhouette
- Romantic aesthetic preferences
- Maximum colorful fire display
- Active lifestyles requiring durability
- Vintage or halo setting enthusiasts
- Appears smaller per carat from top view
- Wide variety of proportions can be confusing
- Can look more traditional or vintage
- May show color more readily in lower grades
Lifestyle Factors
Your daily activities and lifestyle should influence your diamond cut choice:
- For Active Lifestyles: Cushion Cuts offer greater durability with their rounded corners, making them less prone to chipping during everyday activities.
- For Office Professionals: Princess Cuts with protective settings offer a contemporary look that transitions well from professional to social settings.
- For Frequent Hand-Users: Consider lower-profile settings for either cut to prevent snagging on clothing or other materials.
Budget Optimization
At Labrilliante, we help customers maximize their budget with these considerations:
- For Maximum Size Appearance: Princess Cuts typically appear larger from the top view per carat than Cushion Cuts.
- For Maximum Fire: Cushion Cuts offer more visible fire (colored light dispersion) at lower price points than other cuts.
- For Maximum Brilliance on a Budget: Princess Cuts typically offer more brilliance (white light return) per dollar than round brilliants.
Expert Diamond Selection Tips: Getting the Best Princess or Cushion Cut
At Labrilliante, we want to ensure you select the highest quality lab-grown diamond regardless of which cut you prefer. Here are our expert recommendations for evaluating and selecting the perfect Princess or Cushion Cut diamond:
Cut Quality Considerations
For Princess Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds:
- Look for excellent symmetry with perfect square corners (unless you prefer a rectangular shape)
- Seek depth percentages between 65-75% for optimal light performance
- Choose table percentages between 65-75% for ideal brilliance
- Examine the diamond for a distinctive X-pattern when viewed from above, indicating proper facet alignment
For Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds:
- Pay attention to the cushion's outline—some are more square, others more rectangular
- Consider whether you prefer "chunky" or "crushed ice" faceting patterns
- Look for depth percentages between 60-70% for balanced appearance
- Examine for even distribution of brightness across the stone's surface
Color Recommendations by Cut
Princess Cut Color Recommendations: Princess Cuts tend to show more color in their corners. At Labrilliante, we recommend:
- For white metals (platinum, white gold): F color or better
- For yellow or rose gold: G-H color or better works beautifully as the metal's warmth complements the diamond
Cushion Cut Color Recommendations: Cushion Cuts retain more color than Princess Cuts. We suggest:
- For white metals: F color or better
- For yellow or rose gold: G-H color or better creates a harmonious appearance
Clarity Guidance for Both Cuts
Princess Cut Clarity:
- VS2 or better is generally recommended as inclusions can be more visible in the precise faceting pattern
- Pay special attention to inclusions near corners which could affect durability
Cushion Cut Clarity:
- VS2 or better is often sufficient as the faceting pattern can mask minor inclusions
- Avoid inclusions in the center of the stone where they'll be most visible
Size Selection Strategy
The same carat weight can appear different depending on the cut:
- Princess Cuts: For similar face-up size appearance as a 1-carat round, choose approximately 0.90-carat Princess Cut
- Cushion Cuts: For similar face-up size appearance as a 1-carat round, choose approximately 1.10-1.20 carat Cushion Cut
At Labrilliante, our diamonds come with detailed specification reports allowing you to make informed comparisons between different cuts and sizes.
Investment Insights: Price Comparison and Value Analysis
When investing in a lab-grown diamond, understanding the price differences between cuts helps you maximize your budget. At Labrilliante, we're committed to transparency in pricing and value. Here's a comprehensive comparison of Princess and Cushion Cut pricing factors:
Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut Lab-Grown Diamonds: Price Comparison
| Quality Specifications | Princess Cut Average Price | Cushion Cut Average Price |
|---|---|---|
| VVS1 Clarity, D Color | $1,800 - $2,200 | $1,600 - $1,800 |
| VVS2 Clarity, E Color | $1,200 - $1,600 | $1,000 - $1,400 |
| VS1 Clarity, F Color | $1,000 - $1,400 | $1,000 - $1,200 |
| VS2 Clarity, G Color | $900 - $1,000 | $800 - $1,000 |
Note: Prices at Labrilliante reflect current market conditions for premium lab-grown diamonds. These ranges are approximate and may vary based on specific diamond characteristics and market fluctuations.
Key Price Factors for Each Cut
Princess Cut Price Factors:
- Premium for excellent cut quality (affects brilliance significantly)
- Higher prices for perfect symmetry and ideal proportions
- Length-to-width ratio (perfectly square typically commands premium)
- Higher clarity grades recommended (VS2+ preferred)
Cushion Cut Price Factors:
- Premium for antique or "chunky" cushions vs. "crushed ice" varieties
- Distinctive cutting styles may command different prices
- Length-to-width ratio (elongated cushions may have different pricing)
- Premium for well-defined facet patterns with superior fire
Value Optimization Strategies
At Labrilliante, we help customers maximize value with these strategies:
For Princess Cut Value Maximization:
- Consider G color grades which offer excellent white appearance while saving 15-20% over D-F colors
- VS2 clarity often provides the sweet spot between clarity and value
- Slightly rectangular Princess Cuts (1.05:1 ratio) may offer better value than perfect squares
For Cushion Cut Value Maximization:
- Consider G color grades which can appear face-up white but cost 20-25% less than D-F colors
- VS2 clarity often provides excellent value as inclusions are less visible
- "Crushed ice" cushions may offer better value than "chunky" cushions with similar specifications
Red Carpet Inspirations: Famous Princess and Cushion Cut Engagement Rings
Celebrity engagement rings often set trends and inspire diamond shoppers worldwide. At Labrilliante, we've observed how both Princess and Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds have graced the fingers of famous personalities, showcasing the enduring appeal of these two distinctive cuts.
Notable Princess Cut Diamond Rings
Princess Cut diamonds have adorned the hands of numerous celebrities who appreciate their modern, geometric appeal:
- A prominent Canadian singer received a 5-carat Princess Cut diamond set in platinum with a distinctive split-shank pavé band, highlighting the cut's contemporary elegance.
- An award-winning Hollywood actress wears a stunning 3-carat Princess Cut diamond in a halo setting, demonstrating how this cut creates maximum sparkle even in smaller sizes.
- A famous royal family member chose a 3-carat Princess Cut diamond flanked by smaller round brilliants, creating a trilogy design that has inspired countless engagement rings worldwide.
Famous Cushion Cut Diamond Rings
Cushion Cut diamonds have been particularly popular among celebrities who favor vintage-inspired or romantic styles:
- A world-famous actress sports a 5-carat antique Cushion Cut diamond in a yellow gold setting with pavé accents, showcasing the cut's timeless appeal.
- A beloved pop superstar received an elaborate 8-carat Cushion Cut diamond ring featuring a double halo design that amplifies the diamond's natural fire.
- A prominent fashion designer chose an elongated Cushion Cut diamond set in a minimalist platinum band, demonstrating how this historic cut can also look thoroughly modern.
Current Celebrity Trends in Diamond Selection
At Labrilliante, we've observed several emerging trends among celebrity engagement rings that influence popular preferences:
- Increasing interest in larger Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds (3+ carats) as awareness of their value and ethical benefits grows
- Rising popularity of elongated Cushion Cuts that offer a unique alternative to oval diamonds
- Renewed interest in clean, architectural Princess Cut designs paired with minimalist settings
- Growing preference for customized diamond cuts that blend Princess and Cushion characteristics for truly unique pieces
By choosing a lab-grown diamond from Labrilliante in either of these cuts, you can enjoy celebrity-inspired luxury with the added benefits of ethical sourcing and exceptional value.
Making Your Perfect Choice: The Final Word on Princess vs Cushion Cut
When choosing between Princess and Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds at Labrilliante, there's no objectively "better" option—only the perfect choice for you. Both cuts offer distinctive beauty, impressive optical performance, and excellent value compared to traditional round diamonds.
Princess Cuts shine with their contemporary elegance, superior brilliance, and geometric precision. Their modern aesthetic makes them ideal for those drawn to clean lines and maximum sparkle. With proper setting protection for their corners, Princess Cut lab-grown diamonds provide exceptional beauty and value for generations.
Cushion Cuts charm with their romantic heritage, exceptional fire, and versatile character. Their soft contours and captivating colored light dispersion make them perfect for those who appreciate timeless elegance with a touch of vintage appeal. Their rounded corners offer natural durability for everyday wear.
At Labrilliante, we pride ourselves on guiding you to the lab-grown diamond that perfectly matches your personal style, budget, and lifestyle. Our expert gemologists can help you navigate the nuances of each cut and find your ideal match—whether that's the brilliant geometry of a Princess Cut or the romantic allure of a Cushion Cut.
Remember that whichever cut you choose, selecting a lab-grown diamond from Labrilliante ensures you receive not only exceptional beauty and value but also the peace of mind that comes from a truly ethical choice. Our advanced technological processes create diamonds that are chemically, physically, and optically identical to mined diamonds—without the environmental or ethical concerns.
Other diamond shapes
FAQ About Princess and Cushion Cut Diamonds
Princess Cut diamonds typically display more brilliance (white light sparkle), while Cushion Cut diamonds are known for superior fire (colored light dispersion). At Labrilliante, our Princess Cuts feature 76 facets that create intense sparkle, compared to the 58 facets in Cushion Cuts that produce more colorful flashes.
Cushion Cut lab-grown diamonds are typically 5-10% less expensive than Princess Cuts with equivalent specifications. At Labrilliante, both cuts offer significant savings compared to round brilliants of similar quality.
Princess Cut diamonds generally appear larger than Cushion Cuts of the same carat weight due to their weight distribution and face-up surface area. To match the face-up appearance of a 1-carat Princess Cut, you would need approximately a 1.1-carat Cushion Cut from Labrilliante.
Yes, at Labrilliante we offer modified Princess Cuts with slightly altered facet angles that increase fire while maintaining the distinctive square shape. This specialized cutting technique can create a unique hybrid look that combines the geometric appeal of Princess Cuts with some of the fire characteristics of Cushion Cuts.
Interestingly, no. Princess Cuts typically face up whiter than Cushion Cuts of the same color grade because Cushion Cuts retain more color in their facet pattern. At Labrilliante, we recommend selecting one color grade higher for Cushion Cuts if achieving a perfectly white appearance is your priority.
Antique-style "chunky" Cushion Cuts from Labrilliante display broader, more dramatic flashes of light with exceptional fire, while modern "crushed ice" Cushion Cuts offer more scintillation (sparkle) similar to round brilliants. This difference stems from the facet arrangement and is one of the most significant variations within Cushion Cut diamonds.
Yes, all Labrilliante lab-grown diamonds can be laser inscribed with identification numbers or personalized messages on their girdle (outer edge). This microscopic inscription is invisible to the naked eye and doesn't affect light performance in either Princess or Cushion Cuts, while providing authentication and sentimental value.
While both cuts maintain their beauty indefinitely, Princess Cuts may develop slightly rounded corners over many decades of wear, even with protective settings. Cushion Cuts, with their already rounded corners, show fewer visible changes over time. At Labrilliante, we create both cuts with optimal proportions to ensure they maintain their distinctive characteristics throughout a lifetime of wear.
