What is a Cushion Cut Diamond

Some diamonds sparkle with a sharp edge. Others? They glow with a romantic softness that seems to float. That’s the magic of the cushion cut diamond—a timeless favorite with a soft, pillow-like shape and brilliant sparkle.

At White Diamonds, we often hear the question: What is a cushion cut diamond—and why is it so popular? Let’s walk you through everything you need to know about this elegant shape and why it might just be the one for your dream ring.

What Makes a Cushion Cut Diamond Unique?

A cushion cut diamond is defined by its square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, resembling a plush cushion—hence the name. It combines the brilliance of a round cut with the vintage charm of an old mine cut, making it both timeless and romantic.

Key Characteristics of the Cushion Cut Diamond

Rounded Corners: Creates a softer, vintage look that many find more romantic than modern sharp-edged cuts.
Larger Facets: These help showcase clarity and color, creating a deep, glowing sparkle often described as a “crushed ice” effect.
Ratio Variety: Cushion cut diamonds can be perfectly square or slightly elongated depending on your preference.
Depth and Fire: Cushion cuts are known for their intense fire—the flashes of rainbow-colored light that make a diamond dance.

Explore cushion cut diamonds at White Diamonds and see how each one tells a different story.

The Evolution of Cushion Cuts

Cushion cuts have a long history. They originated over 200 years ago as a modified version of the old mine cut, a hand-cut diamond style popular in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today’s cushion cut blends that antique aesthetic with modern cutting precision—offering both nostalgia and brilliance.

There are even sub-styles within the cushion cut category, including:

Cushion Brilliant Cut: Designed for maximum sparkle (similar to a round brilliant).
Cushion Modified Cut: Features an extra “crushed ice” look, with a different faceting pattern.

Ask us at White Diamonds about the differences when shopping—we’re here to help you find the perfect match.

Why People Love Cushion Cuts

Cushion cut diamonds are chosen for engagement rings, anniversary pieces, and custom designs for a few very compelling reasons:

They’re Romantic: The soft shape and vintage charm give cushion cuts a truly sentimental appeal.
They’re Unique Yet Classic: They stand out without straying from elegance.
They’re Versatile: Cushion cuts look incredible in a wide range of settings.

Looking to customize a piece? Start the design process with our team at White Diamonds.

Versatility in Jewelry Design

Cushion cut diamonds shine in all kinds of settings and metals, adapting beautifully to your personal style:

Solitaire Settings: A clean, elegant way to showcase the diamond’s unique shape.
Halo Designs: Amplify size and sparkle with a circle of smaller diamonds surrounding the center stone.
Three-Stone Styles: Add meaning with side stones to represent your past, present, and future.
Vintage-Inspired Settings: Pair your cushion cut with milgrain details or filigree for an heirloom feel.

Whether you choose white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum, a cushion cut brings softness and sophistication to every design.

Book an appointment to explore custom settings at White Diamonds.

Cushion Cut vs. Other Popular Cuts

Wondering how cushion cuts compare to other favorites? Here's a brief breakdown:

Cushion vs. Round Brilliant: Round cuts have more symmetrical sparkle, while cushions offer a softer, more romantic glow.
Cushion vs. Oval: Oval cuts elongate the finger more, but cushion cuts give off deeper fire and vintage charm.
Cushion vs. Princess: Princess cuts have sharp corners and a modern feel, while cushions are rounder and more delicate.

Still deciding? Our experts at White Diamonds are happy to walk you through side-by-side comparisons in-store.

Choosing the Right Cushion Cut Diamond

When selecting a cushion cut diamond, consider these factors:

Length-to-Width Ratio: A 1.00 ratio gives you a square look; 1.10–1.20 gives a more rectangular feel.
Clarity and Color: Cushion cuts show color more clearly than some shapes, so you may want to go slightly higher on the color scale if choosing white gold or platinum.
Cut Quality: Unlike round diamonds, cushion cuts don’t have GIA cut grades. That’s why expert guidance matters—we’ll help you evaluate sparkle in person.

Check White Diamonds first—our team will ensure your diamond meets both your style and standards.

Is a Cushion Cut Right for You?

If you love timeless elegance, soft silhouettes, and a romantic sparkle that blends old-world charm with modern sophistication, the cushion cut might be your perfect match.

It’s ideal for:

Vintage-inspired designs
Romantic solitaire or halo settings
Brides who want something unique, but still classic

Looking for lab-grown options? Cushion cuts are also available in lab-grown diamonds, offering the same beauty at a more accessible price point.

Let’s Find Your Cushion Cut

At White Diamonds, we specialize in helping you find or design the perfect piece—from a showstopping engagement ring to a custom diamond pendant. With our personal, friendly service and wide range of natural and lab-grown cushion cuts, you’ll never feel overwhelmed—just inspired.

Visit our showroom

Call us today

Book a design consultation online

White Diamonds — Meeting your story with Brilliance.