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Princess Cut Diamond Guide: Style, History, Pricing & Buying Tips
Timelessly chic yet radiantly modern, the princess cut diamond is a beloved choice for those who want brilliance with an edge—literally. With its square silhouette and sharply defined corners, this cut fuses contemporary appeal with regal elegance.
Whether you’re drawn to its geometric charm or its affordable sparkle, the princess cut remains one of the most popular diamond shapes today. Let’s explore everything you need to know before buying a princess cut diamond ring.
1. What is a Princess Cut Diamond?
A princess cut diamond is a square or slightly rectangular diamond with brilliant-style facets, typically featuring 58 facets like a round brilliant. Its crisp, angular lines and pyramidal shape make it a standout among fancy cuts. Unlike round diamonds, the princess cut has pointed corners, which require careful setting to avoid chipping.
Key Features:
Square or slightly rectangular outline: length-to-width ratio not exceeding 1:05:1
Brilliant faceting for maximum fire and sparkle
Sharp corners needing secure prong settings
Appears larger per carat than round diamonds due to diagonal measurement
2. History & Style Evolution of Princess Cut
The princess cut is a relatively recent addition to the diamond world but has quickly risen in popularity due to its bold, modern silhouette and affordable brilliance.
1960s Origins: Early versions like the Barion cut and Quadrillion emerged as alternatives to traditional round cuts.
1980s Rise: The modern princess cut was refined and commercialized, offering near-round sparkle in a square shape.
21st Century Popularity: With a clean, architectural look, the cut gained traction among minimalists and trendsetters.
In summary:
Developed in the 1960s-1980s as a brilliant-cut square diamond
Combines brilliance of round with modern square outline
Favored by those seeking elegance with a bold twist
3. Price Guide: How Much Does a Princess Cut Diamond Cost?
Princess cut diamonds are typically 20–30% less expensive than round cuts of the same carat, making them a smart choice for budget-conscious buyers who still want maximum sparkle.
Based on real-time listings from StoneAlgo (July 2025), here’s what you can expect:
| Carat Weight | Natural Diamond Price (G/VS2) | Lab-Grown Diamond Price (G/VS2) |
|---|---|---|
| 0.50 ct | ~$1,100 | ~$300 |
| 1.00 ct | ~$3,200 | ~$750 |
| 1.50 ct | ~$6,200 | ~$1,300 |
| 2.00 ct | ~$9,500 | ~$2,000 |
Lab-grown diamonds offer significant savings while maintaining identical brilliance and appearance to natural stones.
4. Setting & Style Guide
Styling Tips: Who Wears It Best?
Princess cut diamonds appeal to individuals with a strong sense of style who appreciate structured elegance.
Styling Notes:
Complements modern, tailored outfits
Suits angular or square hand shapes
Ideal for minimalists and architecture lovers
Unisex-friendly—often chosen for men’s engagement rings too
Pair with white gold or platinum for a crisp look, or rose gold for a romantic twist.
Ideal Jewelry Styles for Princess Cut
Princess cut diamonds shine brightest in settings that protect their pointed corners and emphasize their symmetry.
Popular Settings:
Solitaire with V-prongs: Clean, classic, and secure.
Halo settings: Enhance brilliance with surrounding melee diamonds.
Three-stone rings: Pair well with trapezoid or tapered baguette side stones.
Bezel settings: Offer a sleek, modern aesthetic with added protection.
5. Buying Tips: What to Look for in a Princess Cut
Because of its faceting and shape, the princess cut comes with unique considerations:
Symmetry is key: Look for a perfect square (length-to-width ratio ~1.00).
Avoid shallow depth: Depth % between 68–75% gives best light return.
Check the corners: Must be well-protected by prongs or bezels.
Clarity matters: Inclusions near corners can threaten durability.
Fluorescence: Minimal to none preferred unless discount is significant.
Choose a trusted retailer like Vivre Brilliance for certified, hand-inspected diamonds with secure settings and post-sale services.
6. Vivre Brilliance Final Thoughts
Princess cut diamonds are where contemporary sophistication meets maximum brilliance. Whether you're drawn to their clean lines or unbeatable value, this cut is a timeless choice for romantics with a bold streak. With the right setting and trusted guidance from Vivre Brilliance, your princess cut diamond will shine for a lifetime.
GODDESS
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FAQS
Why are princess cut diamonds cheaper than round diamonds?
Their cutting process yields less waste from the rough diamond, making them more cost-effective.
Do princess cut diamonds sparkle like round ones?
Yes—princess cuts offer exceptional brilliance due to their faceting style, though with a more geometric light pattern.
Are princess cut diamonds durable?
Yes, but the sharp corners can chip if not securely set. Opt for protective settings.
What’s the best metal for a princess cut engagement ring?
White gold and platinum complement its sharp edges, while yellow or rose gold adds warmth.
Can princess cuts be used in vintage-style rings?
Absolutely—pair with milgrain, filigree, or halo accents for a vintage-inspired twist.
How do I know if a princess cut is well-proportioned?
Check for a near-perfect square (L/W ratio ~1.00) and well-aligned facets.
Is lab-grown a good option for princess cuts?
Yes—lab-grown princess diamonds look identical and cost significantly less.
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Felt instantly relieved when I saw the certificate! The real thing is way sparklier than in the video, and the craftsmanship is so detailed. This ...More
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I am absolutely stunned by my ring. My fiancé did an incredible job choosi...More
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