Are Square Diamonds Cheaper Than Round? Understanding the Value of Diamond Shapes

Introduction

Can true luxury also be truly ethical? As we navigate our choices in fine jewellery, this question resonates deeply with many of us, particularly those who are becoming increasingly aware of the sustainable and ethical implications of our purchases. At DiamondsByUK, we are passionate about providing an ethical alternative to traditional mined diamonds, allowing you to choose beautiful pieces that align with your values. In this blog post, we will explore the intriguing question: are square diamonds cheaper than round diamonds?

The allure of diamonds is timeless, yet the shape of a diamond can significantly impact its cost. With an ever-growing desire for sustainable and personalized luxury, understanding the nuances of diamond shapes—including square and round diamonds—can help you make informed decisions when selecting the perfect piece of jewellery.

Throughout this post, we will delve into the characteristics of square-shaped diamonds versus round diamonds, explore their pricing, and discuss how our bespoke design process at DiamondsByUK empowers you to create unique, ethically sourced jewellery that reflects your individual style. Join us as we embark on this enlightening journey into the world of diamonds!

Understanding Diamond Shapes

When it comes to diamonds, the shape—often referred to as the cut—plays a vital role in determining both its appearance and value. While round diamonds are the most popular and widely recognized, square diamonds—such as princess cut, cushion cut, and asscher cut—offer unique aesthetics that appeal to many.

The Beauty of Square-Shaped Diamonds

Square-shaped diamonds provide a beautiful alternative to the classic round diamond. Here are some of the popular types of square diamonds:

1. Princess Cut Diamonds: Known for their contemporary style, princess cut diamonds feature a square shape with pointed corners. They are designed to maximize brilliance and are often the second most popular diamond shape after round diamonds.
2. Cushion Cut Diamonds: With rounded corners and larger facets, cushion cut diamonds have a vintage charm that adds a softer appearance. Their romantic allure makes them a favored choice for engagement rings.
3. Asscher Cut Diamonds: This cut offers a unique blend of vintage and modern aesthetics. The asscher cut features a square shape with cropped corners and a step-cut design, creating a stunning geometric appearance.
4. Radiant Cut Diamonds: Combining the brilliance of a round diamond with the shape of a square, radiant cut diamonds have trimmed corners and numerous facets, resulting in a sparkling and dynamic look.
5. Emerald Cut Diamonds: Although traditionally rectangular, emerald cuts can also be found in square shapes. Known for their elegant lines and step-cut design, they exude sophistication.

Are Square Diamonds Cheaper Than Round?

Pricing Factors: Shape and Demand

One of the primary reasons square diamonds can be less expensive than round diamonds is due to the differences in how each shape is cut from the rough stone.

• Rough Diamond Yield: Round diamonds require more rough material to achieve their shape, resulting in a higher cost per carat. In contrast, square shapes like the princess cut can yield approximately 80% of the rough stone, making them a more cost-effective option.
• Popularity and Demand: Round diamonds are often the most in-demand shape, which drives their prices higher. As the classic choice for engagement rings, they are perceived as the standard for luxury, leading to increased pricing. While square diamonds are gaining popularity, they generally do not command the same market demand as round diamonds.

Price Comparisons

When comparing square diamonds to round diamonds, we find that square shapes often come at a lower price point. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Princess Cut Diamonds: Typically, they are priced lower than round diamonds of equivalent quality, making them a popular choice for those seeking a balance of size, beauty, and cost.
• Cushion Cut Diamonds: While they have an allure all their own, cushion cut diamonds are also generally more affordable compared to their round counterparts.
• Asscher and Radiant Cut Diamonds: These shapes can be slightly less expensive than round diamonds, depending on their quality and characteristics.

Overall, if you are considering a square diamond for its unique beauty and value, you can often find larger carat sizes or higher quality stones compared to a round diamond within the same budget.

The Value of Lab-Grown Diamonds

At DiamondsByUK, we specialize in IGI-certified lab-grown diamonds that are not only ethical but also beautiful and affordable. Our commitment to sustainability means that you can choose a stunning square diamond without the ethical concerns associated with traditional mining.

Benefits of Lab-Grown Diamonds

• Ethical Sourcing: Lab-grown diamonds are created without the environmental and social issues linked to mining. They are 100% conflict-free, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Lab-grown diamonds typically cost 20-40% less than their mined counterparts. This means you can afford a larger or higher-quality diamond, making it an attractive option for those looking to maximize their investment.
• Customization Options: At DiamondsByUK, we offer full customization services, allowing you to create a bespoke piece that reflects your personal style. This often comes with a turnaround time of just 1-2 weeks, providing you with a unique piece in a timely manner.

Craftsmanship and Quality

When choosing any diamond, the 4Cs—cut, color, clarity, and carat weight—are essential factors to consider. Let's dive deeper into how these aspects relate to square and round diamonds.

Cut

The cut of a diamond significantly influences its brilliance and overall aesthetic. While round diamonds are known for their exceptional sparkle due to their 58 facets, square diamonds like the princess and cushion cuts also offer stunning brilliance through their unique facet arrangements.

At DiamondsByUK, our expert craftsmanship ensures that each diamond is cut to maximize its beauty, regardless of shape.

Color and Clarity

Color and clarity grades are vital in determining a diamond's quality and value. Generally, the less color a diamond has, the more valuable it is. For square diamonds, clarity becomes especially important because larger facets may show inclusions more readily compared to the smaller facets of round diamonds.

Carat Weight

Carat weight is another determining factor of diamond pricing. As discussed earlier, square diamonds can often provide more size for your budget compared to round diamonds. This means that for the same carat weight, you may find yourself able to select a larger square diamond than you would a round diamond.

Custom Design: Create Your Unique Piece

At DiamondsByUK, we pride ourselves on our customer-focused approach. Our bespoke jewellery design service allows you to create a one-of-a-kind piece that tells your story. Whether you’re drawn to the elegance of a princess cut or the vintage charm of a cushion cut, we are here to help you navigate your options.

Starting Your Custom Design Journey

• Initial Consultation: Reach out to our knowledgeable team to discuss your ideas, preferences, and budget. We love collaborating with you to create a piece that’s truly special.
• Design and Craftsmanship: Our skilled artisans will bring your vision to life, ensuring that every detail is meticulously crafted to your specifications.
• Timely Delivery: With typically only a 1-2 week turnaround, you won’t have to wait long to receive your stunning new jewellery.

Ready to embark on your custom design journey? Contact Us to Create Your Unique Piece.

Conclusion

In summary, square diamonds can often be less expensive than round diamonds due to factors such as rough yield, demand, and market trends. However, they offer stunning beauty and unique characteristics that appeal to many jewellery lovers. At DiamondsByUK, we are committed to providing ethical, lab-grown diamonds that are not only beautiful but also sustainable.

Whether you’re searching for a princess cut engagement ring, a cushion cut pendant, or any other square diamond design, our expertly crafted pieces are made with you in mind. Explore our stunning Round Engagement Rings collection today, and discover the perfect piece that resonates with your personal style.

As you consider your diamond options, remember that choosing ethically sourced jewellery is not just a trend—it’s a step towards a more responsible and sustainable future. Start your journey today and let us help you design a bespoke piece that reflects your unique story.

FAQ

1. Are square diamonds cheaper than round diamonds?

Yes, square diamonds are often less expensive than round diamonds. This is primarily due to the yield of the rough stone and the demand for each shape.

2. What are the most popular square diamond shapes?

The most popular square diamond shapes include princess cut, cushion cut, asscher cut, radiant cut, and emerald cut.

3. How do lab-grown diamonds compare to mined diamonds?

Lab-grown diamonds are ethically sourced, conflict-free, and typically cost 20-40% less than mined diamonds. They offer the same beauty and quality as natural diamonds.

4. Can I customize my diamond jewellery at DiamondsByUK?

Absolutely! We offer full customization options for our diamond jewellery. You can design your bespoke piece with our expert team, often with a delivery time of just 1-2 weeks.

5. What factors should I consider when choosing a diamond?

Consider the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Each of these factors will influence the beauty and value of your diamond.

Explore our stunning Round Engagement Rings collection today, and if you're ready to create a unique piece, Contact Us to Create Your Unique Piece. Discover the beauty of ethical luxury with DiamondsByUK!