If you are one to appreciate traditional elegance and timeless beauty, cushion cut engagement rings may well prove to be your ideal choice. Popular from the 1800’s through to the early 1900’s, cushion cut engagement rings (also referred to as “candlelight diamonds” for their stunning sparkle in candlelight settings) have over time become hard to come by- with buyers often resorting to antique and estate jewelers to find them.

However, many modern brides are now appreciating the cushion cut diamond ring for it’s timeless elegance in a fast paced modern world where fashion comes and goes in a matter of weeks. For this reason, many of the best jewelers are now reinstating or reintroducing cushion cut diamond engagement rings into their collections and they are proving an extremely popular choice with brides and grooms alike.

What do cushion cut diamonds look like?

A cushion cut diamond ring exudes the soft and elegant appearance of a pillow. They usually take on the appearance of either rectangular or square proportions with soft, rounded edges. They have a “puffy” appearance and a softer sparkle than that of a modern brilliant cut diamond or princess cut diamond. Because the cushion cut diamond has fewer facets than modern brilliant and princess cut diamonds (up to 20 less) greater emphasis needs to be placed on the clarity and color of the diamond to ensure flaws are not easily perceived.

Popular styles for cushion cut engagement rings

Most brides who choose cushion cut diamond engagement rings will choose a setting that enhances or accents the stones beauty and originality- with the most popular setting by far being the four pronged solitaire setting. However, some brides and grooms prefer eight pronged settings for a more antique look. Oval stones and trilliant stones make lovely complimentary stones should the bride prefer a more elaborate ring.

Cushion cut diamonds also make lovely, unique diamond earrings and pendants with a vintage or antique resemblance.