Fancy Cut Diamonds That Reign Supreme
Natural diamonds are the ultimate expression of personal style. From the classic elegant pear to the edgy trillion, discover the cut that speaks to your individuality.
(LEFT TO RIGHT) EARRINGS & RING AL ANWAAR • EARRINGS ALOK LODHA
Fancy cut natural diamonds are taking the world of luxury jewellery by storm in 2024, but their story goes beyond mere shapes—they symbolise a shift in how we think about luxury and how we express ourselves. Once reserved for engagement rings with stars like Alia Bhatt, Beyoncé, and Blake Lively opting for fancy cuts to reflect their unique love, they’re now infiltrating all categories of jewellery, from statement necklaces and earrings to bracelets and brooches. Each cut embodies a distinctive trait, making it a powerful way to channel and embody personal energy and style.
If you’re a collector or simply a natural diamond enthusiast, here’s a guide to the fancy cut natural diamonds you should know about and why they deserve a spot in your jewellery box.
Oval Cut: A Modern Classic
Oval cut diamonds are perfect for those who love the brilliance of a round diamond but want something with a contemporary twist. Known for their elongated shape, oval diamonds enhance the finger’s length and create the illusion of a larger stone. This cut offers a beautiful balance between tradition and modernity, making it versatile for any type of jewellery—whether in an engagement ring or an updated tennis bracelet. Oval cuts bring elegance and sophistication to any piece, blending timeless charm with fresh appeal.
Pear Cut: Elegance with a Twist
The pear cut offers a blend of round and marquise shapes, creating a teardrop that’s both elegant and unique. Worn right-side-up, it elongates the finger; flipped or tilted, it offers a fresh twist on classic settings. Pear-cut natural diamonds are gracing jewellery collections all the way into high jewellery and red carpets. Earlier this year, Priyanka Chopra donned a jaw-dropping necklace from Bulgari’s Aeterna high jewellery collection adorned with seven pear-shaped natural diamond drops. It’s perfect for the collector who loves traditional beauty with a contemporary edge.
Marquise Cut: For the Drama Lover
The marquise cut is the diva of diamonds making it an obvious choice for anyone who is looking for some extra attention. Think Kim Kardashian at the Ambani wedding in her sultry red sari by Manish Malhotra – the icing on the cake? Literally, her Lorainne Schwartz diamond necklace– two rows of graduating natural diamonds each with its own diamond drop, the second layer with a mega marquise natural diamond pendant. With its elongated, pointed ends, this cut commands attention and creates the illusion of a larger stone, perfect for those who love a bold, dramatic look. Marquise-cut diamonds also have a regal history, originally commissioned by King Louis XV of France to mimic the smile of his mistress, the Madame de Pompadour. Today, they adorn not just engagement rings but statement necklaces, infiltrating all other categories giving any piece an air of elegance.
Trillion Cut: Bold Geometry
For the avant-garde, the trillion cut offers sharp, geometric beauty. Its triangular shape creates a stunning modern aesthetic and is gaining ground rapidly in India. The trillion is bold, yet versatile, making it a great choice for rings, earrings, or even as accent stones to flank a central natural diamond. If you’re looking for a cut that makes a statement, the trillion is your go-to.
Cushion Cut: The Vintage Romance
If you appreciate old-world charm, the cushion cut is your perfect match. With its soft, rounded corners and large facets, the cushion cut exudes a romantic, vintage vibe. Favoured in the 19th century and still beloved today, this cut is both timeless and versatile. Whether you’re setting it in a vintage-inspired ring or pairing it with more contemporary pieces, cushion cuts are all about luxurious elegance.
Unusual Cuts: The Bold and the Beautiful
For those who truly want to make a statement, unusual cuts like the hexagon, kite, or shield are becoming popular among collectors who seek diamonds that break away from tradition. These geometric and asymmetrical shapes offer a fresh, avant-garde take on luxury jewellery. Designers are pushing the boundaries with these unconventional cuts, incorporating them into everything from earrings to pendants. These bold shapes make for stunning, one-of-a-kind pieces that add an artistic and modern edge to any jewellery collection.
In 2024, fancy cuts are no longer just a trend. These unconventional cuts are where craftsmanship meets personal expression, bringing more than just sparkle to a piece—they add character. Fancy cut diamonds offer more than just beauty—they provide versatility, allowing one to curate pieces that truly reflect their personality. Each cut tells its own story, whether it’s the regal marquise, the bold trillion, or the romantic heart. These diamonds are designed for those who aren’t afraid to push the boundaries of tradition and embrace the modern, artistic possibilities that today’s luxury jewellery offers.
Heart Cut: Romance with a Personal Touch
For the ultimate romantic, the heart-shaped diamond is a cut that goes beyond the traditional. It’s bold, symbolic, and personal, perfect for engagement rings or pendants that want to make a heartfelt statement. While less conventional, the heart cut is experiencing a resurgence for those looking to personalise their jewellery in a meaningful way.
Emerald Cut: Understated Sophistication
The emerald cut has long been a favourite for its quiet elegance and Art Deco appeal. Its long, step-cut facets showcase clarity and depth rather than brilliance, making it the ideal cut for those who appreciate understated luxury. Often seen on red carpets, this cut pairs perfectly with bold rings or statement necklaces, and it’s a must-have for anyone who values sophistication over flash.