The Tamesis
If you consider your style to be truly classic, a round cut engagement ring should be at the top of your list. Round cut diamonds are a timeless choice for proposals as this shape has been used for centuries. While the round brilliant cut diamond was first developed in the early 1900s, the early Mazarin cut and Old Mine cut round diamonds have long been synonymous with elegance. No wonder stars like Emily Blunt, Barbra Streisand and most recently Dua Lipa wear this gemstone. In modern times, round cut engagement rings account for the majority of global sales.
“In today’s world, people are increasingly attracted to authenticity and modern heirlooms because of their timelessness and meaning,” said Eddie Le Vian, CEO of Le Vian Jewelry, a company with roots dating back to the 15th century. “The round brilliant cut diamond endures because it embodies both emotion and artistry. It represents generations of human craftsmanship, refining the wonders of nature and pursuing beauty.”
Ahead, we’ll break down everything you need to know about round-cut engagement rings, from how to choose the right diamond to how to set the stones.
What is a round cut diamond?
A round diamond is a finely cut gemstone with approximately 58 tiny facets that allow light to reflect and shine. “Of all diamond shapes, the round brilliant is probably the closest thing in jewelry to a masterpiece of engineering,” explains Le Vian. “Nature created the diamond, but for more than a century, craftsmen and diamond cutters have refined its proportions and facets to maximize brilliance, light performance and fire.”
Unlike older European cut gemstones, round brilliant cut gemstones are characterized by enhanced, symmetrical luster. “The modern round brilliant diamond did not appear overnight. It evolved through generations of craftsmanship and experimentation, all in pursuit of one thing: bringing the diamond to life,” notes Le Vian. “That’s why the circle remains so timeless. It’s more than just a shape. It’s the result of man’s pursuit of perfection.”
What’s so special about round cut diamonds?
“The remarkable thing about round brilliant diamonds is that they transcend fashion,” says Le Vian. “Fashion trends come and go, but the language of light never changes. The round cut is designed to maximize brilliance and refraction, which is why it has been the world’s most durable diamond shape for generations.”
“There’s some deep emotion in it,” he noted. “The circle itself has long symbolized eternity, making it technically striking as well as romantically significant.”
How to evaluate round cut diamonds according to the 4C criteria
One of the most unique qualities of a round diamond is that it has its own GIA grading category. The results of these grades will determine the cost of your ring. “Every diamond is judged on the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity and carat weight, but with a round brilliant cut, the cut becomes the soul of the stone,” shares Le Vian. “Because this shape was specifically developed to optimize the movement of light, every angle, every proportion and every facet matters. Two diamonds can have the same carat weight and grade on paper, but once exposed to light, they perform completely differently.” He added, “A beautifully cut round diamond doesn’t just sparkle. It appears to glow from within.”
Other factors that go into GIA grading include color, clarity (which indicates the number of inclusions on the diamond), and carat weight (which indicates the size of the stone and how it fits on your finger).
How to choose a style and settings
The setting of round cut diamonds can always change the nature of this classic. “The beauty of a round brilliant diamond ring is how versatile it is. Think of it as a perfect white shirt or a little black dress in jewelry. It goes with just about anything, but depending on how you style it, it can look completely different,” says Le Vian. Gemstones can be set in a very minimalistic way on a simple band without side stones. Thicker bezel settings are also a popular choice for round cuts these days. Of course, you can also try round cuts and add a halo of baguettes, side stones, or pavé diamonds around the ring.
