Princess Cut Diamond vs Square: Which Sparkles Brighter?
Choosing the perfect diamond can feel overwhelming, especially with so many stunning shapes to consider. Two popular choices often top the list: the elegant princess cut diamond and the classic square diamond. Both offer incredible brilliance and are beloved for their distinct aesthetics.
But which shape reigns supreme? This comparison dives deep into the world of diamonds, specifically focusing on the princess cut diamond vs square. We’ll explore their unique characteristics, from their sparkle and light performance to their price and overall appeal.
Whether you’re shopping for an engagement ring, a special gift, or simply curious about diamonds, this guide will help you understand the key differences. Prepare to discover the pros and cons of each shape to help you make an informed decision and find the perfect diamond for you!
Specs at a Glance:
| Feature | princess cut diamond | square |
|---|---|---|
| Shape | Princess | Square |
| Facet Count | Typically 57-58 | Typically 57-58 |
| Brilliance | Excellent | Good |
| Sparkle | High | High |
| Cut Grade | Critical for appearance | Critical for appearance |
| Durability | Very Durable | Very Durable |
| Popularity | High | Moderate |
| Light Performance | Excellent | Good |
| Waste of Rough Diamond | Higher than Round | Higher than Round |
| Ideal Depth Percentage | 59-65% | 58-65% |
| Ideal Table Percentage | 58-65% | 58-65% |
| Corners | Sharp | Sharp |
Feature-by-Feature Breakdown
Shape and Silhouette
- Princess Cut Diamond: The princess cut is a square or rectangular shape with pointed corners. It offers a brilliant sparkle due to its many facets, resulting in a modern and geometric look. While it maximizes brilliance, the pointed corners are vulnerable to chipping.
- Square: The term “square” refers to a shape that is perfectly square. This is less common but can be achieved with a well-cut princess cut. Square diamonds have a clean, symmetrical appearance. The sharp corners can be prone to damage.
- Winner: Princess Cut
Brilliance
- Princess Cut Diamond: Princess cuts are renowned for their brilliance. The numerous facets reflect light exceptionally well, creating a dazzling display of sparkle, often rivaling round brilliants. The cut’s design contributes significantly to its fire and scintillation.
- Square: The brilliance of a square diamond (often a princess cut) depends heavily on the cut quality. A well-cut square diamond can be very brilliant, but it may not always match the fire of a perfectly cut round brilliant. Cut quality is key.
- Winner: Princess Cut
Fire (Dispersion)
- Princess Cut Diamond: Princess cuts typically exhibit good fire, or dispersion, which is the ability to break white light into spectral colors. The facet arrangement contributes to the colorful flashes seen in the diamond.
- Square: The fire in a square diamond is similar to its brilliance and depends on the cut quality. A well-cut square can display good fire, but it might not be as pronounced as in some other cuts.
- Winner: Princess Cut
Facet Arrangement
- Princess Cut Diamond: Princess cuts feature a modified brilliant-cut facet arrangement, with typically between 50-58 facets. This arrangement is designed to maximize light return and sparkle.
- Square: The facet arrangement depends on the specific square cut style. Often, it’s a variation of the princess cut. The arrangement is designed to create brilliance and fire.
- Winner: Princess Cut
Durability
- Princess Cut Diamond: The pointed corners of a princess cut can be vulnerable to chipping or damage if not protected by prongs or a bezel setting. However, the overall durability is good.
- Square: Square diamonds, like princess cuts, have sharp corners that are susceptible to damage. Proper setting is crucial for protection.
- Winner: Tie
Price
- Princess Cut Diamond: Princess cuts are generally less expensive per carat than round brilliants because they retain more of the rough diamond during the cutting process. This can offer significant cost savings.
- Square: Square diamonds, particularly princess cuts, are typically priced similarly to princess cuts, making them a cost-effective option compared to round diamonds.
- Winner: Princess Cut
Appearance on Hand
- Princess Cut Diamond: The princess cut’s square or rectangular shape gives it a modern and geometric look. It can appear larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight due to its shape.
- Square: A well-cut square diamond (e.g., a princess cut) offers a clean and symmetrical appearance on the hand. Its shape can create a bold and contemporary statement.
- Winner: Tie
Setting Options
- Princess Cut Diamond: Princess cuts are versatile and look great in various settings, including solitaire, halo, and three-stone designs. The pointed corners require careful setting to protect them.
- Square: Square diamonds offer similar setting versatility as princess cuts. They can be set in various styles, and the setting should always protect the corners.
- Winner: Tie
Winner by Category:
| Category | Winner |
|---|---|
| Brilliance | princess cut diamond |
| Shape Distinctiveness | Tie |
| Light Performance | princess cut diamond |
| Overall Popularity | princess cut diamond |
| Modern Appeal | Tie |
What They Have in Common:
- Shape: Both are non-round diamond shapes, offering a modern and distinct look compared to round brilliant cuts.
- Brilliance: Both shapes are designed to maximize light return and sparkle, though the princess cut often excels slightly.
- Facet Count: Both typically feature a similar number of facets (around 57-58), contributing to their brilliance and fire.
- Versatility: Both shapes are versatile and can be set in a variety of ring styles, from solitaires to more elaborate designs.
- Durability: Both princess and square cut diamonds are durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, both have sharp corners, which can be vulnerable to chipping.
- Modern Aesthetic: Both shapes offer a modern and stylish alternative to the traditional round brilliant cut.
Princess Cut Diamond Vs Square Buying Guide
Shape and Appearance
The princess cut diamond, a brilliant-cut square with pointed corners, offers a modern and dazzling appearance. Its facets maximize light reflection, resulting in exceptional sparkle and brilliance, often rivaling round brilliant cuts. Conversely, the square cut diamond, while also featuring a square shape, might have different facet arrangements, leading to variations in its light performance. The square cut can appear more subtle, emphasizing the diamond’s shape and clarity. The choice depends on personal preference and the desired aesthetic: bold brilliance or understated elegance.
Brilliance and Sparkle
Princess cut diamonds are renowned for their exceptional brilliance. Their facet arrangement allows for superior light return, creating a mesmerizing sparkle that captivates the eye. Square cut diamonds can also exhibit excellent brilliance, but the specific facet structure and proportions significantly influence their light performance. Look for diamonds with well-defined facets and a good cut grade to maximize sparkle. Consider the diamond’s symmetry and polish, as these factors also contribute to its overall brilliance. Assess the diamond under various lighting conditions to evaluate its sparkle.
Price and Value
Generally, princess cut diamonds are often more affordable than round brilliant cuts of the same carat weight and quality. This is because the cutting process for princess cuts yields more of the original rough diamond, reducing waste. Square cut diamonds may vary in price depending on their specific facet arrangement and overall quality. When comparing prices, consider the 4Cs: cut, clarity, carat, and color. Evaluate the diamond’s brilliance, fire, and scintillation to ensure you are receiving good value for your investment. Compare prices from different vendors to find the best deal.
Durability and Strength
Both princess and square cut diamonds are durable and suitable for everyday wear. However, the pointed corners of a princess cut diamond make it slightly more vulnerable to chipping compared to rounded shapes. Square cut diamonds, with their corners, are also susceptible to chipping if not set securely. Choose a setting that protects the corners, such as a bezel or a setting with prongs that cover the corners. Regular inspection and professional cleaning can help maintain the diamond’s integrity. Ensure the setting is appropriate for your lifestyle.
Setting and Style Options
Princess and square cut diamonds are versatile and can be set in various styles. Princess cuts look stunning in solitaire settings, allowing their brilliance to shine. They also pair well with side stones, such as baguette or round diamonds. Square cuts offer a contemporary look and can be set in classic or modern settings. Consider a halo setting to enhance the diamond’s size and sparkle. The choice of setting should complement the diamond’s shape and your personal style. Explore different setting styles to find the perfect match.
Cut Quality and Considerations
The cut quality is crucial for both princess and square cut diamonds. A well-cut diamond maximizes light return and sparkle. Look for a cut grade of “Excellent” or “Very Good” to ensure optimal brilliance. Consider the diamond’s symmetry and polish, as these factors also influence its appearance. Check the depth and table percentage, as these can affect light performance. Review the diamond’s proportions to ensure it has a balanced and appealing look. A well-cut diamond will display a beautiful pattern of light and dark areas.
Who Should Buy What?
Buy princess cut diamond If…
- You prioritize maximum brilliance and sparkle.
- You want a diamond that appears larger for its carat weight.
- You appreciate a blend of modern and classic aesthetics.
- You prefer a shape that offers excellent light performance.
Buy square If…
- You desire a diamond with a distinct, geometric shape.
- You appreciate a slightly more subtle brilliance compared to the princess cut.
- You are looking for a diamond with a clean, modern look.
- You like a shape that provides a good balance between brilliance and a unique appearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a princess cut and a square cut diamond?
The princess cut is a specific type of square cut diamond with pointed corners and a brilliant-cut facet arrangement designed to maximize light return. Square cut diamonds encompass a broader category, and their facet arrangements can vary. The princess cut is characterized by its brilliance, while the “square cut” covers more variations in the shape and light performance. The princess cut is usually the most brilliant of the square cuts.
Which shape sparkles more, a princess cut or a square cut?
Generally, a well-cut princess cut diamond will sparkle more than a square cut. The princess cut’s facet arrangement is optimized for brilliance, resulting in a dazzling display of light. However, the sparkle of a square cut diamond depends on its specific facet structure and the quality of the cut. The cut, symmetry, and polish are crucial factors that determine the brilliance of any diamond.
Are princess cut diamonds more expensive than square cut diamonds?
Princess cut diamonds are often more affordable than round brilliant cuts, but the price of a square cut depends on its specific facet arrangement and overall quality. A princess cut diamond often yields more of the original rough diamond. When comparing prices, consider the 4Cs (cut, clarity, carat, and color) and assess the diamond’s brilliance, fire, and scintillation to ensure good value.
Which shape is more durable, a princess cut or a square cut?
Both princess and square cut diamonds are durable, but the pointed corners of the princess cut can be slightly more vulnerable to chipping. Square cuts with sharp corners are also at risk. The choice of setting, such as a bezel or a setting with protective prongs, can significantly impact the durability of either shape, protecting the corners from impact and damage during daily wear.
What setting styles are best for princess cut diamonds?
Princess cut diamonds look stunning in various settings. A classic solitaire setting showcases the diamond’s brilliance, while a halo setting enhances its size and sparkle. They also pair well with side stones, such as baguettes or other diamonds. The choice of setting should complement the diamond’s shape and your personal style. Consider the setting’s protection of the corners.
How do I choose the right cut grade for a princess or square cut?
For optimal brilliance, aim for a cut grade of “Excellent” or “Very Good” for your princess or square cut diamond. This ensures maximum light return and sparkle. Pay attention to the diamond’s symmetry and polish, as these factors also influence its appearance. Review the diamond’s proportions to ensure it has a balanced and appealing look, and examine it in different lighting conditions.
What factors should I consider when comparing princess and square cut diamonds?
When comparing, consider the 4Cs: cut, clarity, carat, and color. Evaluate the diamond’s brilliance, fire, and scintillation. Assess the diamond’s proportions, symmetry, and polish. Determine the setting styles you prefer, and consider the price and value. Ultimately, choose the diamond that best fits your style, budget, and desired level of sparkle. Compare diamonds from different vendors.
Final Verdict
Both princess cut and square cut diamonds offer unique beauty and brilliance. The princess cut excels in sparkle and is often more budget-friendly, while the square cut provides a more contemporary aesthetic. The best choice depends on personal preference and priorities. Consider the cut quality, setting options, and overall aesthetic appeal when making your decision. Both shapes offer excellent value and durability.
Winner: Princess Cut Diamond