What is a trapezoid cut diamond?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A trapezoid cut diamond is a four-sided step-cut stone where one side is longer than the opposite parallel side, with the two remaining sides angling inward so the shape widens from one end to the other. It is used almost exclusively as a side stone in three-stone settings, framing a larger centre stone to each side, and it pairs particularly well with emerald, asscher, radiant and cushion centres where its geometric precision complements the centre stone's clean lines. Unlike a tapered baguette, the sides of a trapezoid cut are slightly angled rather than running to a point.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a trapezoid cut and a tapered baguette?
- Both are step-cut side stones with one end wider than the other, but they differ in shape. A tapered baguette has straight parallel sides that converge toward one end, giving a tapered rectangle. A trapezoid cut has two parallel sides, one longer than the other, with angled sides connecting them, making it a true trapezoid rather than a tapered rectangle.
- What centre stones look best with trapezoid side stones?
- Trapezoid side stones are most commonly paired with emerald cuts, asscher cuts, radiant cuts and cushion cuts. Their flat, geometric profile complements the angular silhouette of these step and modified brilliant cuts well. Round brilliants can also use trapezoid sides but the combination is less common.
- Are trapezoid cut diamonds brilliant or step-cut?
- Trapezoid cuts are step-cut, with facets arranged in parallel rows rather than the radiating triangular arrangement of a brilliant cut. This gives them a quieter, hall-of-mirrors quality where the geometry of the stone is as important as its sparkle, making them well-suited to architectural ring designs.
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