The cushion cut has enjoyed a number of other nicknames. Before electricity and lightbulbs, a cushion-cut diamond was a candlelight diamond, due to their beauty when reflecting a single light source. Now so-called because of its plump, pillowy shape, this style may be found on oval, rectangular, and square stones (the latter two having slightly rounded corners).
Due to technology’s progress, recently-cut cushion diamonds are more symmetrical than they were previously, so there is a rather high demand for older cushion diamonds. However, the modern versions are still highly desired by those who prefer a traditional look (a rare desire for engagement rings though).
Critics claim that solitaires benefit the most from this style of cut, as it allows the main stone to draw attention to its elegant simplicity. A quite striking cut style because it allows the viewer to see through the stone, whereas most cuts attempt to create a mirroring effect, which draws attention more to the hand that wears the piece and less to the piece itself.
Cushion cut engagement rings have quite a lot to say about the wearer. They assert a traditional personality, one that hungers for the simplicity of times long past, and unassumingly goes about life with a singular, non-competitive purpose. If you love a woman who wears fairly unassuming and classic jewelry, then this style might be the perfect gift.
On average, diamonds with a cushion cut have 20 less facets than those without, which means that while imperfections will be more noticeable, so too will the perfection of a high-quality stone. A cushion cut says, I have nothing to hide, in a that way promotes a confident demeanor.
This style typically requires at least a four-pronged setting, and this number increases depending upon the size of the stone. Because the larger stones benefit more from this style, it is advisable to buy more than a four-pronged setting.