If you're looking for a modern yet timeless engagement ring, a princess cut may be the perfect choice for you. With its square shape and brilliant cut, this diamond shape has become increasingly popular in recent years. In this guide, we'll take a closer look at the princess cut, its history, characteristics, and popular styles.

The princess cut is a square or rectangular diamond cut with pointed corners. It was first introduced in the 1980s and quickly gained popularity due to its modern look and versatility. Unlike other diamond cuts, the princess cut has a square or rectangular shape that makes it a unique choice for engagement rings.

History of Princess Cut

The princess cut was first developed by diamond cutter Arpad Nagy in the 1960s. However, it wasn't until the 1980s that the princess cut became popular among consumers. Since then, it has become one of the most popular diamond cuts for engagement rings, alongside the round cut.

Characteristics of princess shape gemstone

Princess cut gemstones are known for their unique combination of brilliance and fire, making them a popular choice for engagement rings. Here are some of their characteristics:

• Cut: The princess cut is a relatively new cut, developed in the 1980s. It is a square or rectangular cut with pointed corners, similar to an inverted pyramid.
• Facets: A well-cut princess-shaped gemstone will have a minimum of 58 facets, which allows it to sparkle and reflect light beautifully.
• Clarity: Princess-cut stones are often cut from high-quality rough, which makes them less likely to have visible inclusions. However, it's still important to check the clarity of the stone before purchasing.
• Color: Like all gemstones, princess-cut stones come in a range of colors, from colorless to deeply saturated hues.
• Size: The square or rectangular shape of a princess-cut stone makes it an ideal choice for those looking for a larger stone, as it can appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight.

Overall, the princess cut is a stunning and versatile choice for an engagement ring that can suit a variety of personal styles and preferences.

Strengths of Princess Cut

Princess cut engagement rings have several unique features that set them apart from other gemstone shapes:

Modern Look

The square shape of the princess cut gives it a modern and contemporary look that appeals to many couples. It's a popular choice for those who want an engagement ring that looks timeless yet has a unique and modern twist.

Sparkle

The princess cut's brilliant cut enhances its sparkle, making it an eye-catching choice for engagement rings. The faceting of the diamond allows for more light to reflect and refract, creating a beautiful display of sparkle and fire. 

How Does the Princess Shape Contrast with the Famous Round Brilliant Shape

The princess cut and round brilliant cut are two of the most popular gemstone cuts on the market today. Here are some key differences between the two cuts:

1. Shape: The round brilliant cut is a classic and timeless shape that is characterized by a circular shape and 58 facets. The princess cut, on the other hand, is a square or rectangular shape with pointed corners and typically has between 57 and 76 facets.

2. Brilliance: Both cuts are designed to maximize a gemstone's brilliance, but the round brilliant cut is widely considered to be the most brilliant of all cuts due to its symmetrical shape and the way light reflects off its many facets. The princess cut is also quite brilliant, but its sharp corners can sometimes cause light to leak out of the stone.

3. Durability: Because of its sharp corners, the princess cut is slightly more prone to chipping than the round brilliant cut, which has a smooth and rounded surface.

4. Price: In general, the princess cut tends to be less expensive than the round brilliant cut because it retains more of the original rough diamond during the cutting process.

5. Style: The round brilliant cut is a classic and elegant choice that is well-suited to a variety of styles, from vintage to modern. The princess cut, on the other hand, has a more contemporary and edgy feel that is popular with younger generations.

Ultimately, the choice between a princess cut and a round brilliant cut will depend on personal preference and the specific qualities of the gemstone being considered. Both cuts are beautiful in their own right and can make a stunning centerpiece for any piece of jewelry.

Popular Styles for Princess Cut Engagement Rings

There are several popular styles for princess cut engagement rings that can enhance the beauty of the diamond even further:

Solitaire

A simple solitaire setting highlights the beauty of the princess cut diamond, making it the perfect choice for those who prefer a minimalist look. This style is elegant and timeless, and the focus is solely on the diamond.

Halo

A halo setting adds extra sparkle and enhances the size of the princess cut diamond, making it a popular choice for those who want a statement piece. The halo of smaller diamonds or other gemstones around the center diamond creates a stunning frame that draws the eye in.

Three-Stone

A three-stone setting with princess cut diamonds creates a classic yet modern look that symbolizes the past, present, and future of the relationship. The two smaller diamonds on either side of the center diamond can represent the couple's past and future together, while the center diamond represents the present.

Caring for Princess Shaped Engagement Rings

To keep your princess shaped engagement ring looking its best, it's essential to care for it properly. Here are some tips:

Clean your ring regularly with a soft-bristled brush and mild soap and water.

Avoid wearing your ring during activities that could damage it, such as exercising or doing household chores.

Take your ring to a professional jeweler for regular inspections and maintenance.

Conclusion

Princess shaped engagement rings offer a modern yet timeless look that appeals to many couples. Their versatility, sparkle, and size make them an excellent choice for engagement rings. And they are arguably among the most romantic of gemstone cuts.