What Diamond Shape is the Most Expensive?

What Diamond Shape is the Most Expensive?

Diamonds come in a variety of breathtaking shapes, each with its own unique allure and price point. While every diamond holds its own beauty, some diamond shapes are significantly more expensive than others due to factors like carat retention, demand, and cutting complexity.

So, which diamond shape is the most expensive? If you're shopping for an engagement ring or fine jewelry and want to understand which cuts command the highest prices, this guide will break it all down.

At Karlise Jewelers, we believe in transparency and helping you make the best decision for your investment. Whether you're drawn to the brilliance of a round cut or the sophistication of an emerald cut, here’s everything you need to know about diamond shapes and their pricing.

What Determines the Price of a Diamond Shape?

The cost of a diamond shape is influenced by several factors, including:

  • Rarity & Demand – Some cuts, like round diamonds, are always in high demand, which raises their price.

  • Carat Retention – Shapes that retain more rough diamond material during cutting cost less than those that result in significant waste.

  • Cutting Complexity – Certain shapes require precision cutting and expert craftsmanship, increasing labor costs.

  • Brilliance & Light Performance – Shapes that maximize light reflection, like round brilliants, are typically priced higher due to their stunning sparkle.

Now, let’s explore which diamond shapes are the most expensive and why.

The Most Expensive Diamond Shape: Round Brilliant

The round brilliant diamond is the most expensive diamond shape on the market. But why?

  • Highest Demand – The round cut is the most popular and sought-after diamond shape for engagement rings, increasing its value.

  • Most Rough Diamond Waste – Cutting a round diamond leads to a significant loss of the original rough stone (sometimes up to 60% of the rough diamond is lost). This inefficiency drives up the price.

  • Exceptional Brilliance – The 58 facets of a round brilliant diamond optimize light reflection, making it the sparkliest of all diamond cuts.

  • Certified Precision – Round diamonds are cut to precise industry standards, which adds to their premium pricing.

If you're looking for maximum brilliance and timeless elegance, a round diamond is worth the investment.

Other Expensive Diamond Shapes & Their Unique Appeal

While the round brilliant tops the list, other diamond shapes also command high prices due to their craftsmanship, rarity, and brilliance.

Oval Cut Diamonds

  • Close to Round in Brilliance – With a similar facet structure, ovals offer dazzling sparkle.

  • High Demand – Ovals are one of the most trending shapes for engagement rings, increasing their price.

  • Elongating Effect – The shape creates an illusion of a larger diamond, making it highly desirable.

Best for: Those who love the brilliance of a round but want a unique, elongating shape.

Marquise Cut Diamonds

  • Dramatic & Unique – The elongated boat-shaped cut is highly distinctive.

  • Maximizes Carat Size – The marquise shape looks larger per carat than most cuts.

  • More Waste Than Other Cuts – The marquise cut requires extensive precision, which increases labor costs.

Best for: Those who want an eye-catching, regal diamond that looks larger for its carat weight.

Heart-Shaped Diamonds

  • Symbol of Romance – A heart-shaped diamond is rare, making it a luxury choice.

  • Difficult to Cut – Precision is required to maintain perfect symmetry, increasing labor costs.

  • High Waste Factor – Like the round cut, cutting a heart-shaped diamond results in significant rough diamond loss.

Best for: Those seeking a symbolic and romantic diamond with a distinct look.

More Affordable Diamond Shapes That Maximize Carat Size

If you love larger diamonds for a lower cost, consider these more budget-friendly shapes:

Emerald Cut Diamonds

  • Step Cut Brilliance – Instead of sparkle, emerald cuts create a unique hall-of-mirrors effect.

  • Less Rough Diamond Waste – Cutting an emerald cut preserves more of the original stone.

  • Timeless & Elegant – This rectangular shape has a vintage, art deco appeal.

Best for: Those who love understated elegance and clean lines.

Cushion Cut Diamonds

  • Soft, Romantic Shape – A mix between round and square, cushions offer vintage charm.

  • Holds Color Well – If considering fancy colored diamonds, cushions enhance color saturation beautifully.

  • Less Waste, Lower Cost – Cushion cuts use more of the rough diamond, keeping costs lower.

Best for: Those who want a balance of brilliance, softness, and affordability.

Pear-Shaped Diamonds

  • Elongating & Unique – This teardrop shape creates a stunning, lengthened appearance.

  • More Affordable – Pear cuts cost less than rounds while appearing larger per carat.

  • Asymmetry Adds Character – No two pear diamonds are exactly alike, offering a custom feel.

Best for: Those looking for a distinctive, feminine diamond shape with extra visual impact.

Choosing the Right Diamond Shape for Your Budget & Style

When selecting a diamond shape, consider:

  • Budget: Round brilliants and fancy cuts like marquise and heart-shaped diamonds tend to be the most expensive. More affordable options include emerald, cushion, and pear cuts.

  • Brilliance: If maximum sparkle is a priority, opt for a round, oval, or cushion cut.

  • Size Perception: If you want a diamond that looks larger for its carat weight, consider oval, pear, or marquise shapes.

  • Personal Style: Do you prefer a classic, modern, or vintage-inspired look? Different cuts evoke different aesthetics.

At Karlise Jewelers, we offer a stunning collection of diamond shapes, helping you find the perfect fit for your style and budget.

Final Thoughts: Which Diamond Shape Is Right for You?

  • If you’re looking for the most expensive diamond shape, a round brilliant diamond is the top choice due to its demand, craftsmanship, and unparalleled brilliance.

  • If you want a luxury diamond that stands out, consider oval, marquise, or heart-shaped diamonds, which also command higher prices.

  • If you prioritize value and carat size, emerald, cushion, or pear-shaped diamonds offer a balance of beauty and affordability.

At Karlise Jewelers, we specialize in helping you find the perfect diamond—whether you're investing in a timeless classic or a unique, custom design.

Visit our store in Burlington, VT to explore exquisite diamonds in every shape. Let us guide you to a ring that speaks to your heart!

 

Back to Blog