What is a cushion cut diamond?
Last updated 17 October 2026
A cushion cut diamond has a square or rectangular outline with curved sides, commonly with rounded corners. Corner shapes vary, and some cushions have more pointed corners. Modern examples include cushion brilliant and cushion modified brilliant facet arrangements. The outline and the cutting style describe different things: a longer cushion is not automatically a better-cut stone. Compare the individual diamond’s proportions, finish and appearance rather than relying on its shape name to predict sparkle.
Look at the cushion outline
The nearly square example below has curved sides and rounded corners. Its black lines are schematic; they do not establish a facet count, cut grade or the appearance of a real diamond in light.
Compare an elongated cushion
This taller example shows how the outline changes when length exceeds width. The drawings are not an equal-carat or actual-size comparison. A diamond’s measurements, report and direct viewing give different information; use them together.
Check the edge and setting
Rounded corners do not make a diamond damage-proof. Ask a jeweller to inspect the edge, or girdle, and any existing damage before selecting a setting. Protective coverage depends on the stone and the finished setting.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a cushion cut and a princess cut?
- Princess cuts have pointed corners and are usually square; cushions have curved sides and often rounded corners, though variations exist. Their facet arrangements can also differ. Compare the actual outlines and stones rather than treating the names as a guaranteed sparkle comparison.
- Is cushion cut or round brilliant better?
- Neither shape is automatically better. Decide which outline you prefer, then compare the individual diamonds in more than one lighting condition. Proportions and finish affect appearance; a cushion name or a round outline alone does not establish quality.
- What ratio makes an elongated cushion cut?
- Length-to-width ratio is the length divided by the width. Values near 1 describe a nearly square outline; larger values describe a longer one. Elongated describes proportions, not a cut grade. Ask for the measurements and judge the outline rather than treating a preferred ratio as a quality threshold.
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