What’s the Most Expensive Diamond Cut? Your Guide to Diamond Shapes and Prices

What’s the Most Expensive Diamond Cut? Your Guide to Diamond Shapes and Prices

Ever stood at a jewelry counter, dazzled by sparkling diamonds, only to wonder why some cost a fortune while others seem like a steal? If you’re shopping for an engagement ring or a special piece in the U.S. or Canada, you’ve likely asked, “What is the most expensive diamond cut?” or “Why are round diamonds more expensive?” The truth lies in the cut the shape and craftsmanship that make a diamond shine. Let’s break it down in a way that’s clear, practical, and helps you make a smart choice without breaking the bank.

Why Diamond Cuts Matter More Than You Think

The cut of a diamond isn’t just about its shape - like round, princess, or cushion - it’s about how the stone is crafted to maximize its sparkle. A well-cut diamond reflects light like a tiny disco ball, while a poorly cut one? It’s like a dim bulb. But here’s the kicker: the cut also plays a huge role in the price. Why? Because cutting a diamond requires skill, precision, and sometimes a big sacrifice of the raw stone’s weight. Let’s dive into the most expensive diamond cuts and why they cost what they do.

Round Diamonds: The Priciest of Them All

If you’ve searched “what is the most expensive diamond shape,” you’ve probably heard that round diamonds take the crown. And it’s true - round cuts are consistently the most expensive diamond cut. Why are round diamonds more expensive? It comes down to three key factors:

  1. Demand Drives Price: Round diamonds are the most popular choice for engagement rings in the U.S., making up over 50% of sales according to jewelers’ reports. High demand means higher prices - simple economics.
  2. Complex Cutting Process: Round cuts require precise angles to achieve that iconic sparkle. To get it right, cutters often sacrifice up to 50% of the rough diamond, which jacks up the cost.
  3. Maximum Brilliance: The round brilliant cut has 58 facets, designed to reflect light in a way that screams luxury. That sparkle doesn’t come cheap.

On average, a 1-carat round diamond can cost 20-30% more than other shapes of the same quality. So, if you’re eyeing a round cut, brace yourself for a premium price tag.

Other Expensive Diamond Cuts: Princess, Cushion, and More

While round diamonds top the list, other cuts aren’t far behind in price, depending on the quality and craftsmanship. Here’s a quick look at some other contenders for “most expensive diamond shape”:

  • Princess Cut: Known for its sharp, square shape, the princess cut is a close second in popularity. It’s slightly less expensive than round - think 10-15% cheaper for a 1-carat stone-but still costly due to its high demand and intricate faceting.

  • Cushion Cut: With its soft, rounded corners, the cushion cut has a vintage vibe. But is the cushion cut or princess cut more expensive? Typically, princess cuts edge out slightly due to higher demand, but a well-cut cushion can rival it in price if the clarity and color are top-notch.

  • Emerald and Radiant Cuts: These step-cut diamonds are less common but can be pricey for larger stones because their long, flat facets demand near-perfect clarity.

Curious about which diamond cut is the most expensive after round? It’s usually the princess, followed closely by cushion, depending on the market and specific stone.

Cheapest Diamond Cuts: Budget-Friendly Brilliance

On the flip side, if you’re wondering “what is the cheapest diamond cut,” there are shapes that deliver sparkle without draining your wallet. Here are the most affordable diamond cuts:

  • Marquise Cut: This elongated, boat-shaped cut uses more of the rough diamond, so less material is wasted. Result? Lower price—often 20-30% less than a round cut for the same carat weight.

  • Oval Cut: Similar to marquise, ovals are cost-effective because they retain more of the original stone. They’re a great middle ground for brilliance and budget.

  • Pear Cut: Shaped like a teardrop, pear cuts are another wallet-friendly option, often priced similarly to marquise and oval.

The cheapest diamond shape often depends on the retailer, but marquise and oval consistently rank among the least expensive diamond cuts due to their efficient use of rough stones.

Diamond Cuts by Price: A Quick Chart

To make things crystal clear (pun intended), here’s a simplified breakdown of diamond cuts from most to least expensive, based on average U.S. market prices for a 1-carat, high-quality stone:

Diamond Cut Relative Price Why It Costs This Much
Round Most Expensive High demand, complex cut, max sparkle
Princess Expensive Popular, intricate faceting
Cushion Moderately Expensive Vintage appeal, clarity matters
Emerald Moderate Step-cut, needs high clarity
Oval Affordable Efficient use of rough stone
Marquise Most Affordable Minimal waste, less demand

Note: Prices vary based on clarity, color, and carat weight, so always compare specific stones.

Why Are Some Diamond Shapes Cheaper?

You might be wondering, “Why are cushion cut diamonds cheaper?” or “What’s the cheapest diamond shape?” It boils down to supply and demand and cutting efficiency. Shapes like marquise, oval, and pear require less material loss during cutting, so they cost less. Plus, they’re less popular than round or princess cuts, which keeps prices down. For example, a cushion cut might save you 15-20% compared to a round cut because it’s less in demand and easier to cut from the rough stone.

How to Choose the Right Diamond Cut for Your Budget

So, which diamond cut is the most expensive, and which gives you the best bang for your buck? Here’s the deal:

  • If you want luxury: Go for a round or princess cut. They’re pricier but deliver unmatched sparkle and timeless appeal.
  • If you’re budget-conscious: Opt for marquise, oval, or pear cuts. You’ll get a larger-looking stone for less money.
  • If you want unique: Consider emerald or radiant cuts for a distinctive look without always paying top dollar.

Pro tip: Always check the diamond’s cut grade (Excellent, Very Good, etc.) on a certificate from a reputable lab like GIA. A high cut grade ensures you’re getting the sparkle you’re paying for, no matter the shape. 

Your Next Step: Find Your Perfect Diamond

Now that you know the most expensive diamond cuts (hello, round!) and the cheapest diamond shapes (marquise, anyone?), you’re armed to make a smart choice. Whether you’re popping the question or treating yourself, understanding how diamond shape affects price can save you thousands or help you splurge wisely.

Ready to shop? Visit a trusted U.S. jeweler like Elgrissy Diamonds or Brilliant Earth for transparent pricing and high-quality stones. Compare cuts side by side, and don’t be afraid to ask for a diamond cut price chart to see the numbers for yourself. Your dream diamond is out there - go find it!



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