Features:

In this article:

Share on:

Cushion-Cut Diamond Engagement Rings Taking Centre Stage

Are you on the hunt for an exquisite diamond engagement ring that truly embodies smart investment and will stand the test of time? Your decision will inevitably include considering the shape of the diamond. While the brilliant-cut has traditionally held the top-spot for a diamond engagement ring, 'diamond prices evolution' indicates a rising demand for the cushion cut. Originating from way back in the 18th century, what factors have led to this surge in popularity? ​

Read summary

Why is the cushion-cut diamond experiencing a resurgence in engagement ring popularity?

The cushion-cut diamond, an 18th-century classic, is making a remarkable comeback in today's engagement ring market. This vintage-inspired cut, known for its pillow-like shape with rounded corners and larger facets, perfectly aligns with the current trend toward retro revival and sustainable luxury. Its growing appeal is validated by celebrities like Jennifer Aniston and Anne Hathaway, who have chosen this elegant style for their engagement rings.

What makes the cushion cut particularly special is its versatility and brilliance. While it may offer slightly less clarity than the traditional brilliant cut, it excels in displaying fancy colored diamonds, as its larger facets magnificently enhance unique hues. The cut can be customized from square to rectangular, offering flexibility in design while maintaining its characteristic sparkle and sophistication. This combination of vintage charm and modern adaptability makes the cushion cut an increasingly popular choice for engagement rings that serve both as romantic symbols and smart investments.

Read more below

Most viewed diamond jewels

Excellent 5 out of 5 based on 4,007 reviews

      

Cushion-Cut Rings: The Vintage Revival in Diamond Market

In both fashion and jewellery landscapes, we are witnessing a true retro revival. This trend reflects the Industry Expert BAUNAT on the ever-evolving diamond market and our collective desire for smarter consumption, recycling old materials into something strikingly beautiful and desirable. The timeless charm and glamour radiated by vintage jewellery echo these values, making it no surprise that celebrities like Jennifer Aniston, Anne Hathaway, and Kelly Clarkson all proudly sport a cushion diamond engagement ring. 

How the cushion cut compares to other diamond shapes

When you choose a diamond you weigh appearance, perceived face-up size and value. The cushion cut sits between old-world charm and modern sparkle; knowing the technical differences versus other popular shapes helps you decide.

  • Cushion versus round brilliant: The round brilliant returns light through many small facets and a classic brilliant pattern. Cushions usually have fewer, larger facets, which can create broad flashes of light or a crushed-ice effect depending on the pavilion.rounds typically have shallower depth/table proportions. - Cushion versus oval: Ovals give an elongated silhouette that can make the stone seem larger on the finger. Square-to-slightly-rectangular cushions present a more compact, vintage profile. Ovals tend to show continuous brilliance along their length; cushions break light into broader flashes.
  • Cushion versus emerald: Emeralds are step cuts with long, clean facets that highlight clarity and a hall-of-mirrors effect rather than sparkle. Cushions, with chunkier facets, favour brilliance and colour return. For the same carat, an emerald often faces up smaller because of a deeper pavilion and smaller table area compared with many cushion proportions.
  • Cushion versus princess: Princess cuts are square brilliants with sharp corners and strong scintillation. Princesses read as modern and edgy; cushions soften that look with rounded corners and a warmer, vintage feel.


Price and market considerations: cushions often trade at a discount to round brilliants, though cut quality, colour and clarity affect value. Fancy coloured diamonds in cushion cuts can command a premium because the cut intensifies colour. For full grading detail and how proportions influence value, see BAUNAT’s 4 C’s hub to guide your choice.

The Appeal of Cushion-Cut Engagement Ring

Often referred to as the 'pillow cut' due to its rounded corners and slightly larger facets, the cushion cut accentuates the brilliance of the diamond and emphasizes its clarity. This captivating shape, born of time-honoured traditions, can range from square to rectangular making for an elegance that is second to none. For your cushion-cut engagement ring, will you opt for a traditional colorless or the increasingly popular fancy coloured diamond? 

What to look for in a cushion diamond


  • Certificates to request: Ask for an independent certificate from a recognised laboratory such as GIA or IGI or HRD so you can compare diamonds with confidence.
  • BAUNAT-aligned thresholds: To preserve a premium finish and long-term value, avoid colours below H and clarities below SI1. Also note that cushions under 0.50ct will generally read smaller on the finger; for a statement engagement ring many clients prefer larger carat weights.

Use this checklist when reviewing cushion options so you can match the cut’s romantic character with objectively strong proportions and documentation.

Fancy Coloured Diamonds: A Perfect Match for the Cushion Cut

Fancy coloured diamonds shine brilliantly in a cushion cut, enhanced by the larger facets that truly bring the unique hues of the coloured diamond to life. While there may be a slight loss of clarity compared with the brilliant-cut, this pales in comparison to the vibrant kaleidoscope of colours that emerge, a feature that truly makes the cushion cut stand out. At BAUNAT, you can always choose a tailor-made engagement ring, set with a cushion-cut diamond. 
Still looking for the perfect diamond engagement ring? Explore our extensive selection or contact Industry Expert BAUNAT for a diamond market consultation tailored entirely to your needs. Remember to keep an eye on the diamond prices evolution to make the smartest investment for your unique piece. 

  • An Van Puyvelde

  • An Van Puyvelde - Order & Administration Manager

  • An supervises BAUNAT’s order processing and logistics, working closely with the internal order team to ensure a seamless customer experience. She plays a key role in coordinating production timelines and maintaining clear communication with clients throughout the entire process. With a strong focus on precision and reliability, An is dedicated to delivering each piece on time while keeping customers fully informed, contributing to BAUNAT’s high standard of service and customer satisfaction.

An supervises BAUNAT’s order processing and logistics, working closely with the internal order team to ensure a seamless customer experience. She plays a key role in coordinating production timelines and maintaining clear communication with clients throughout the entire process. With a strong focus on precision and reliability, An is dedicated to delivering each piece on time while keeping customers fully informed, contributing to BAUNAT’s high standard of service and customer satisfaction.