When choosing a diamond, its shape often plays a pivotal role in both its aesthetic appeal and its cost. While carat weight, clarity, color, and cut are commonly discussed, the diamond’s shape also significantly impacts its price. At Karti Carats, we believe in empowering our customers with knowledge, so let’s dive into how and why diamond shape influences its cost.
Shape and Demand: A Key Factor
The demand for specific diamond shapes plays a huge role in their pricing. For example, round brilliant diamonds are the most sought-after shape due to their timeless design and unmatched brilliance. This high demand often makes them more expensive than other shapes. On the other hand, shapes like emerald, cushion, and marquise, though equally stunning, are less popular and thus generally more affordable.
If you’re looking for a balance between beauty and value, less conventional shapes like oval, pear, or Asscher might be ideal. These shapes offer unique charm while often being more budget-friendly.
Yield from Rough Diamonds
Diamond shape also impacts cost based on how efficiently it can be cut from the rough stone. Round diamonds, while stunning, result in more wasted material during the cutting process compared to shapes like princess or radiant. This wastage drives up the price of round diamonds. In contrast, shapes that maximize the rough stone, such as cushion or emerald cuts, are often priced lower due to their efficient cutting process.
At Karti Carats, we ensure that every shape we offer balances beauty with the best use of the raw material, providing you with exceptional quality at a fair price.
Labor Intensity and Precision Cutting
The complexity involved in shaping a diamond also adds to its cost. Round diamonds require precise cutting to achieve their iconic brilliance, making the process more labor-intensive and thus costlier. Similarly, fancy shapes like pear and marquise need expert craftsmanship to ensure symmetry and proportion, but their labor costs are generally lower than round diamonds.
Shapes like the Asscher or emerald cut, with their step facets, demand precision to achieve their elegant, mirror-like appearance. While not as brilliant as round cuts, they exude sophistication and are often less expensive.
Perception of Size and Sparkle
Certain diamond shapes, such as oval or marquise, appear larger than other shapes of the same carat weight due to their elongated design. This perceived size advantage often allows buyers to choose a smaller carat weight without sacrificing the visual impact, potentially saving money.
Moreover, sparkle plays a role in the perceived value of a shape. Round diamonds, with their 58 facets, deliver maximum brilliance, justifying their higher price. In contrast, shapes like cushion or emerald may not sparkle as intensely but appeal to those seeking vintage or understated elegance.
Shape Trends and Personal Preferences
The price of diamond shapes also fluctuates with trends and personal preferences. For instance, the popularity of oval diamonds has surged in recent years, slightly increasing their cost compared to traditional favorites like princess or cushion cuts. Choosing a less trendy shape can often result in better value for your budget.
At Karti Carats, we encourage you to explore various shapes and choose one that resonates with your personality and style, regardless of market trends.
Balancing Beauty and Budget
Ultimately, the price difference between diamond shapes allows you to find one that aligns with your style and budget. If you’re drawn to the brilliance of round diamonds but need a more affordable option, consider oval or cushion shapes, which deliver similar sparkle at a lower cost. If size and elegance are your priority, elongated shapes like emerald or marquise might be perfect for you.
Our team at Karti Carats is always here to guide you through these choices, ensuring you find the ideal diamond that fits both your preferences and budget.
