STORIES - Cuts: discover the characters of gemstones

When a gemstone is found, it is only the beginning of its journey. Only during the cutting process does its true beauty come to life.

The cuts, also called shapes, determine not only how light plays in the stone, but also how it feels: elegant, modern, classic or playful.

Brilliant: the eternal classic

The brilliant-cut diamond is probably the most famous cut in the world. 75% of all diamonds used in jewellery have this shape. With 57 or 58 facets, this round cut is designed to extract the maximum amount of brilliance from a stone. The more facets, the more brilliance.

The cut was not perfected until 1919 by Marcel Tolkowsky, a Belgian mathematician who calculated the ideal proportions for maximum brilliance.

Princess

The Princess cut is square and modern, but still has an impressive sparkle. This makes it the ideal choice for those who like clean shapes without missing the sparkle.

It only became popular in the 1980s, and is now the second most popular cut after the brilliant.

Oval

The oval-cut gemstone has an elongated round shape that makes the fingers appear optically longer. Due to its elongated shape, an oval diamond often appears larger than a brilliant of the same carat weight. A smart choice for those who want extra impact.

Emerald

The emerald cut is rectangular with large, open facets. This shape emphasises clarity over brilliance and exudes luxury and tranquillity. As a result, it also sparkles slightly less.

The emerald cut was originally developed for emeralds, as you can hear from the name.

Pear

The pear cut resembles a teardrop or a drop and is loved for its elegant extension and unique shape. The combination of round and pointed makes it expressive and feminine.

The pear cut was invented in 1458 by Flemish diamond cutter Lodewyk van Bercken, who also developed the first cutting wheel.

Why the cut matters

A gemstone can only really sparkle when it is given the right shape. Whether you fall for the classic roundness of a brilliant, the dramatic lines of an emerald or the playful elegance of a pear, the cut determines the soul of the gem.

At byJACKY, we believe that every piece of jewellery tells a story. The cut is your first chapter in that.

Would you like to know more about which cut best suits your personality or style? Make an appointment and together we will find the perfect cut for your jewel.