What’s the ideal size of a Nexus Diamond Alternative? We have been answering that question with our Carat Comparison looking at Round Brilliant, Princess and Oval shapes, and then our second round featuring Cushion, Emerald and Pear cuts. While it comes down to what you personally love, the shape of the stone, the setting and the band can all affect how big or small your center stone appears.
These are three of our fancy cut stone shapes and how different carat weights look for each one to help guide your decision.
Radiant
The rectangular shape of the Radiant cut gives a lot of bang for your carat weight. Because it takes up more surface area on your finger than other cuts in a similar carat weight, it appears larger. The Radiant cut can support both wider and slimmer bands. This cut lives up to it’s name—the way the facets are cut gives the Radiant cut lots of fire and brilliance. Sweet!
Pictured (top to bottom): 0.60 carat Montreal in white gold; 1.74 carat Fiji in white gold; 2.25 carat Tapered Classic Solitaire in white gold.
Marquise
This cut is strongly associated with royalty and vintage styles. Its length and graceful pointed ends makes it appear a bit smaller than other shapes in similar carat weights. However, it takes up more space on your finger, which can make hands look longer and more elegant. Stick to slender or tapered bands with Marquise stones to maximize the look and gorgeous shape.
Pictured (top to bottom): 0.71 carat Tapered Classic Solitaire in white gold; 0.95 carat Tapered Classic Solitaire in white gold; 1.62 carat Tapered Classic Solitaire Style in white gold.
Trillion
This modern-looking cut has a unique triangle shape with gently rounded edges. Somewhat similar to the cushion cut, it maximizes the carat weight to make the stone look larger, particularly in smaller sizes. You’ll want to look for a slim or tapered band to get the most out of this ultra-unique stone shape.
Pictured (top to bottom): 0.55 carat Bali in white gold; 1.10 carat Bali in white gold; 1.75 carat Soliloquy in yellow gold.
Whatever your budget, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice the look you love. With these guidelines, you can choose the shape you love in a style that stuns every time you look at it.
Compare our most common carat weights: Round, Princess and Oval.
Compare some of our more uncommon cuts: Cushion, Emerald and Pear.
Compare our East-West settings in Radiant, Marquise, and Oval cuts.