Despite the label “point-cut”, the first cut diamonds were actually polished to create four even facets. By the 15th Century advancements in diamond cutting produced the table-cut diamond. Over time, these cuts evolved into the ever-more multifaceted designs seen on engagement rings today.
For many celebrities, engagement announcements are a big deal, often accompanied by an equally sizable (and glitzy) engagement ring. While the use of diamonds in engagement rings has only been around since the 1940s, the history of diamond cutting itself dates as far back as the mid-14th Century.
Oval
Oval-shaped gems have existed as far back as the 12th Century, but the brilliant-cut version we know today was developed by Russian-born American diamond cutter, Lazare Kaplan in 1957. Designed to symbolize longevity, this is a cut favored by many including Blake Lively and Kate Middleton, who wore the 18-carat oval sapphire originally worn by Princess Diana.
Round
While the origins of the round-cut diamond can be traced back to the mid-17th century, it wasn’t until 1919 that it became truly “brilliant”, as a number of innovators including Belgian mathematician Marcel Tolkowskly (who also happened to be Lazare Kaplan’s cousin) sought ways to increase the light performance of the round gem as seen on the hands of Miranda Kerr, Mila Kunis and Emily Blunt.
Heart
The heart cut emerged from Europe shortly following the invention of the table cut. At the time, only the wealthy could afford diamonds, with Mary Queen of Scots gifting her half-sister Queen Elizabeth a heart-cut ring in 1562 as a token of their (sadly ill-fated) friendship. Today, the romantic shape is beloved by many celebrities, including Gwen Stefani and Lady Gaga.
Pear
In 1456, a Flemish diamond-cutter revolutionized the diamond-cutting industry with the invention of the scaife polishing wheel. Two years later, Lodewyk Van Berken used this innovative tool to create the pear-cut diamond, a style worn famously by Elizabeth Taylor, whose 69-carat rock (an apology gift from Richard Burton following an argument) was so heavy that it eventually had to be worn as a necklace.
Rose
The rose-cut diamond (known for its resemblance to a rosebud) emerged in the 1530, but did not become popular throughout Europe until the 1800s. With a flat base and dome-shaped cut offering a subtler, more diffuse effect than other styles, this vintage design continues to be a popular cut today amongst celebrities such as Lily Collins, who wore hers in a bezel setting with a delicate gold band.
Cushion
Another cut to have evolved over time, the 58-facet “old mine cut” originated in the 1700s. The modern 64-facet version as we know it today also drew inspiration from earlier cuts like Peruzzim table and candlelight-cut diamonds, and has since been worn by Gabrielle Union, Leighton Meester and Mehgan Markle, whose 3-carat cushion cut center stone is flanked by two lab-grown diamonds.
Emerald
The emerald cut also took some of its design cues from the classic table cut, and was first thought to have been worn as an engagement ring in 1477 by Mary of Burgundy. Emerald cuts became increasingly popular throughout the 20th century Art Deco period owing to their clean, geometric lines. More recent fans of this distinctive design include Beyonce, Amal Clooney, and Kristen Bell.
