When looking for a ring for a special occasion, especially an engagement, it is important to find the perfect ring. There are different cuts, stones and bands for every personality type, and different aspects of quality to consider. When shopping for that unique gift, consider buying a classic cushion cut engagement ring.
Cushion cut engagement rings have recently started becoming popular again. A cushion cut ring ( also known as a pillow-cut or a candlelight diamond) is an antique cut that is a cross between a modern oval cut and the Old Mine Cut, which had large facets and was popular during the 19th century and early 20th century. It has rounded corners and large facets that highlight the diamonds clarity.
It has a romantic, classic look that, in contrast to the fiery brilliance of more modern cuts, will definitely stand out in the crowd. The general standards of what makes a good cushion cut diamond engagement ring varies widely, so it is not uncommon for different shaped diamonds (e.g almost square vs. long rectangle) to be called cushion cut, as long as they fall between the lines of square and rectangular.
In an engagement rings, a cushion cut diamond can stand alone, or can be set amongst other stones on a ring. Cushion cut diamonds do require at least four prongs to hold it in place, and larger stones will require more prongs. Sometimes it can be hard to find cushion cut diamonds in small sizes, so if you are on a tight budget, and looking for less than a carat, it may be wise to choose a different cut. The most popular choice for stone in an engagement ring is diamond, but gems such as emerald can also be shaped as a cushion cut.
When buying a cushion cut diamond, as with any diamond, there are certain things a shopper should look out for. Particularly important when buying a cushion cut diamond is clarity, because the large facets highlight the clarity of the diamond. In otherwords, if the cushion cut diamond has a low clarity, people will notice. Clarity is a term used to describe the size and number of inclusions in a diamond. Inclusions are traces of the noncrystalized carbon material left in the diamond from where it orginally came from. Large amounts of inclusion interfere with the spread of light through a diamond, and therefore affect the diamond’s brilliance. Color is also something to look out for. Normally, diamonds appear clear or white, but sometimes they can be colored yellow or even brown.
This deminishes the value of the diamond. However, sometimes diamonds can be tinted in vibrant colors such as red or blue. These are extremely rare, and therefore are extremely valuable. A shopper should also try to make sure that the cut is as close to the ideal proportion as possible. When a diamond is cut to ideal proportions, the light is reflected from one facet to another and then through the top of the diamond. If the diamond is cut too deeply or too shallow, some light will escape.
Because cushion cut diamonds have only recently started becoming popular again, it can be hard to find them. Sometimes they can be found on wholesale websites, such as Amazon.com and Overstock.com. Other online retail stores, such as Blue Nile, and the Solomon Brothers Fine Jewelry, also carry vintage cushion cut diamond engagement rings. Shoppers can also try local jewelers in their town. Despite the fact that they may be hard to find, this classic cut will be worth the search. It’s antique look could be the perfect choice for your engagement ring, especially if the reciever is interested in vintage styles.
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