Cushion Engagement Rings
From their unique shape to their versatility, cushion engagement rings are a favorite type of diamond ring for the right reasons.
First off, cushion engagement rings have a unique shape. Also, the stones come with rounded corners. These two features (shape and corners) add to the size of the facets. With that, they produce a beautiful, unique, and refined twinkle.
Also, these cushion rings are versatile and classic. The stone cut is perfect when they appear as solitaires. This striking look is not lesser than the appearance they produce in a three-stone or halo setting.
In addition, you cannot find two completely similar cushion diamonds. You can find some with round gemstones. And others with square rocks. In fact, some can come with oval-shaped stones.
Meanwhile, the history of cushion engagement rings dates as far as centuries ago. However, these rings recently found their way back into the hearts of many ring lovers. A good example is Kanye West gifting Kim Kardashian a gorgeous 15-carat cushion-cut diamond on a thin diamond pavé band.
With so much buzz around this ring type, here is a blog about the details that make this classic! This text explains all you need to know before shopping for a cushion engagement ring. We will begin with the basics of the cut. Then, we’ll proceed to the cut, clarity, and color quality recommendation.
What are these Cushion Engagement Rings?
Cushion engagement rings are best separated from others with their 58 brilliant-styled facets and rounded corners. Their 58 brilliant facets come in a similar design to a pillow shape. These rings have been a delight and preferred choice for most brides-to-be since centuries ago.
Moreover, a cushion diamond is a hybrid diamond cut. You have a more contemporary, round, brilliant cut shape diamond with an outstanding, ancient mine facet shape diamond cut. Generally, this diamond cut has a delicate square or straight rectangular structure. All of which come with curved edges.
A cushion diamond in an engagement ring blends a square shape with rounded edges to make it easier. That gives the cushion ring a look similar to a pillow’s. This blend is the source of the cut’s name: “cushion cut.” Cushion diamonds are a perfect fit for luxurious engagement rings. Also, we can use them in other fashion items.
Lastly, how do cushion engagement rings fare as regards their market cost? Typically, a cushion diamond costs somewhat less than the price of other cuts, such as round brilliant diamonds. Nevertheless, this valuation might increase considerably as its fame continues to rise amongst ring lovers.
History of these Classic Cushion Engagement Rings
Presently, when we consider diamond shapes, the cushion diamond will stand out. This diamond cut is one of the most distinctive and outstanding diamond shapes presently. The journey to this point began in the 18th century. Back then, this cut had a different name called the “mine cut.” This name is from the Brazilian miners who first cut their gemstones using their hands.
The popularity of cushion diamonds stayed unmatched in the 19th century. Most gemstones, not only diamonds, adopted this cutting style at the time. A famous example is the popular “Tiffany diamond.”
As a result of this cut being popular in a previous era, it is always referred to as antique. Cushion engagement rings bear reference to the old-world style. The only difference is that this is a refined version. Most contemporary cushion diamonds come with 64 facets. This is different from the basic 58 facets. Aside from this, this diamond shape can come in varieties of styles.
In all, the cushion cut popularity has kept increasing over the last decade. This rise in fame is due to its gorgeous style and reasonably low price. These are advantages it has over other kinds of diamond cuts.
The Advantage Cushion Engagement Rings Have Over Others
Combining any metal with the cushion cut is a win for diamond lovers. These peculiar and special features have come together to give you the best experience as a user. And some of the great things you can count on include the following:
- Cushion Engagement Rings is a Blend of Varieties
One feature that makes the cushion engagement rings stand out is their range. In simple terms, this diamond ring can be whatever you want it to be. It is no news that some brides would prefer a square cut for an engagement ring. Others prefer the rectangular cut. Both are good choices; the cushion engagement ring validates that.
The jewelers who made the cushion ring gave us different cutting methods. Coupled with the soft round edges, you get different appearances with a cushion cut ring, from square to rectangular and elongated.
The Different Cushion Diamond Cuts You Should Know
The versatility these cushion engagement rings bring to us calls attention to the types of cushion rings out there. Away from the shapes of this ring, gem cutters focus on the faceting style of the cut. What we have found out is that there are ways a gem cutter may decide to make a cushion cut
As earlier stated, cushion diamond cuts have four types. These four are popular, and you may decide to pick any of them:
- Old Mine Cushion Diamond Style
If you paid attention to the history of the cushion cut, the old mine certainly looks familiar. It was the star of the 1700s and held its own for a while. It is a unique faceting style of a cushion cut with a bumpy or geometric surface. The old mine has a high crown, a deep pavilion, and a larger culet.
- Brilliant Cushion Diamond Style
Unlike the Old mine, the brilliant-cut cushion has a larger diameter for the carat weight. The brilliant-cut cushion has similarities with the brilliant round cut. The brilliant-cut cushion came after the old mine. Thus, it is only fitting that it does better in maximizing the diamond’s light return.
- Crushed Ice Cushion Diamond Style
In recent years, jewelers have used the available resources to create unique cuts. The crushed ice may not be your cup of tea. But, it is remarkable in every regard. It is different from the rest too. So far, the crushed ice has shortened star facets. It is not like the old mine and brilliant-cut. If you are wondering what a star facet looks like, then you picture the arm of a star. When jewelers shorten or change the star facet, they form the cushion cut crushed ice.
The design of the crushed ice is different from others. So, you should expect that it will have some major differences. For one, they have a heavy bottom. Another thing is that they look smaller than the brilliant and hybrid cushion diamond cut.
- Cushion Modified Hybrid Cushion Diamond Style
This is the latest design of the cushion diamond cut. We can say that this is the one that many modern-day couples seem to favor when they choose. Of course, we cannot fault their rationale. The hybrid cushion diamond style combines the brilliant and crushed ice facet style.
Imagine collaborating with the best of these worlds; what else can we expect, if not beauty? It has a four-star facet look, and it is large, almost like the typical size for a cushion brilliant.
The Outstanding Features Of Cushion Engagement Rings
Whether or not you opt for a cushion engagement ring, the goal is always top quality. You want to get a clean and clear cut. Also, you will look for any authenticity certification you can find. These features are of great significance. Nonetheless, cushion engagement rings are outstanding in certain ways.
- A Glow that Stands Out
There is a different glow this cut produces. Due to the cut of these diamonds, the glow they give is somewhat softer compared to other cuts. Therefore, if you want a shinier appearance, go for rings of this cut with more facets. Symmetry is another important feature. Ensure that the four corners are as similar as they can be.
- Superior Color Quality
Note, if you’re an alternative bride who wants a distinct engagement ring, try out any of these varieties.
- Yellow cushion cut diamonds
- Blue cushion cut diamonds
- Pink cushion cut diamonds
The degree of color this cut holds is naturally superior. Likewise, the vibrancy of its color is long-lasting.
- Fitting Diamonds For Vintage-Inspired Settings
Vintage-inspired settings are the best settings for cushion engagement rings. This is the cut for an older design. Thankfully, these vintage-inspired settings are the new style in vogue.
Regardless, certain modern settings still work perfectly with these diamonds. Some of these well-fitting settings are:
- Double-band Settings
- Two-stone Settings
- East-west Settings
Also, this cut is a softer type, thanks to its rounded edges. Hence, it looks as perfect in white gold or platinum as in a mixed-metal ring or romantic rose-gold setting. Finally, cushion engagement rings are a great option that has risen in vogue over the years. These rings are particularly ideal for halo settings.
How Well Do You Know the 4 Cs Of Cushion Engagement Rings?
Regarding color quality, cushion engagement rings are not the best. You should choose an H color or a better color quality when you shop for a cushion cut ring. As regards clarity, only SI2 or SI1 can give you the best and ultimate value for your money.
Due to the large open table cushion ring cuts come with, an eye-clean SI2 might be challenging to find. Therefore, you might pay a little more if you want a stone with better clarity.
How about the cut quality? When you shop for cushion engagement rings, go for a depth below 70%. Also, look for symmetry or polish that is Good, Very Good, or Excellent, and a table depth below 70%. You can be more lenient with your length or width ratio choice. Explore your options!
Cushion Engagement Rings: The Highs and the Lows
Just like any other diamond cut ring, there are merits and demerits. Check out the pros and cons of the Cushion engagement rings. With that, you can decide if this is the right ring for you.
The Highs
- Exceptional level of fire and brilliance. These rings reflect white and colored light perfectly, especially under good light conditions.
- Distinctive cut to produce a more peculiar engagement ring
- Highly durable thanks to its rounded edges
- A perfect blend of modern style and classic flair
- Compared to round-cut diamond engagement rings, they are less expensive per carat.
- Continuously growing in popularity
The Lows
- Not the best shape to retain color the best. H grade or higher will work better in this regard.
- Flaws are more evident because of the open table these rings have. SI1 or SI2 are better options for a better clarity grade.
- The names used to refer to this cut are numerous. These names confuse buyers. They include chunky cushions, modified cushions, classic cushions, etc.
Are you interested in buying a cushion engagement ring? Pay close attention to all of these. In addition, check out reviews on any ring you are about to purchase to be sure it is best for you.
Proper Maintenance for Your Cushion Engagement Rings
As one of the most adored pieces of jewelry you’ll ever acquire, it’s crucial to keep your cushion engagement rings looking just as spotless as the day you said “yes.” Regardless of the diamond type, industry expert Nicole Wegman advises removing your engagement ring before activities that include contact with dirt, water, or sweat. She explains, “This will protect the setting and diamond and help keep it clean.”
Getting in the habit of creating a regular care routine for your diamond is the best way to ensure long-lasting sparkle. “To keep your diamond sparkling, clean it weekly with a jewelry cleaner, like our Foam Jewelry Cleaner, or scrub with a soft toothbrush using warm water and dish soap. Make sure you get under your diamond to remove any trapped dirt,” Wegman further advises.
Note: Nicole Wegman is best recognized for blurring the diverse line between jeweler and influencer as the founder and CEO of Ring Concierge.