The Iguazu
Specifications
Why We Love Cushion Cut Diamonds
Cushion cut diamonds offer a timeless elegance with their square or rectangular shape and rounded corners. Known for their brilliance and romantic appeal, these diamonds combine vintage charm with modern sparkle, making them a popular choice for engagement rings and classic jewelry pieces.
The Romantic Cut
Cushion cut diamonds feature a square or rectangular shape with softly rounded corners and larger facets, resembling a pillow (hence "cushion"). This vintage-inspired cut has been popular for over 200 years, offering a perfect blend of old-world romance and contemporary brilliance. Cushion cuts are beloved for their soft, romantic appearance and exceptional fire.
Why Choose Cushion Cut Diamonds?
Vintage Charm
Cushion cuts evoke antique elegance and romantic appeal. They're perfect for those seeking vintage-inspired style with modern performance.
Exceptional Fire
The larger facets create exceptional fire (colored light dispersion), producing rainbow flashes that rival or exceed round diamonds.
Soft, Romantic Appearance
The rounded corners and pillow-like shape create a softer, more romantic aesthetic than angular cuts.
Versatile Proportions
Available in square or rectangular shapes to suit different preferences and finger shapes.
Cushion Cut Characteristics
Shape
Square or rectangular with rounded corners. The soft, pillow-like appearance distinguishes cushion cuts from other shapes.
Facet Patterns
Two main varieties:
- Cushion Brilliant - Modern facet pattern with smaller facets, more sparkle
- Cushion Modified - Additional row of facets on pavilion, creates "crushed ice" appearance
Length-to-Width Ratio
- 1.00-1.05: Square cushion
- 1.10-1.20: Slightly rectangular, balanced
- 1.20-1.30: Elongated rectangular, finger-flattering
Cushion Cut Quality Factors
Cut Quality
Cushion cuts don't have standardized GIA cut grading. Look for:
- Excellent or very good symmetry
- Excellent or very good polish
- Well-proportioned depth (60-70%) and table (58-70%)
- Even light return without dark areas
Color
Cushion cuts can show color more than round diamonds due to larger facets. Consider G-H color or higher for white gold/platinum, or embrace warmer tones in yellow/rose gold.
Clarity
VS2-SI1 clarity works well. The brilliant facets help hide minor inclusions, though the larger facets make some inclusions more visible than in round diamonds.
Cushion Brilliant vs. Modified
- Brilliant: Chunkier facets, more fire, traditional appearance
- Modified: "Crushed ice" sparkle, more scintillation, modern look
Cushion Cut History
Cushion cuts evolved from the old mine cut (1700s-1800s), one of the earliest diamond cutting styles. As cutting technology improved, the cushion cut was refined to increase brilliance while maintaining the romantic, pillow-like shape.
Cushion cuts were the most popular diamond shape until the early 1900s when round brilliants were developed. They experienced a major revival in the 2000s as vintage-inspired jewelry gained popularity.
Best Settings for Cushion Cuts
Solitaire
Four-prong setting showcases the cushion's romantic shape and allows maximum light entry.
Halo
Surrounded by smaller diamonds for vintage glamour. Cushion cuts look stunning in halos.
Three-Stone
Flanked by smaller cushions, rounds, or half-moons for balanced elegance.
Vintage-Inspired
Milgrain details, filigree, and ornate designs complement the cushion's romantic character.
Hidden Halo
Diamonds set under the center stone for subtle sparkle visible from the side.
Cushion Cut vs. Other Shapes
vs. Round Brilliant
Cushion: Vintage charm, more fire, softer appearance
Round: Maximum brilliance, timeless, more expensive
vs. Radiant Cut
Cushion: Rounded corners, romantic, vintage appeal
Radiant: Trimmed corners, modern, more sparkle
vs. Princess Cut
Cushion: Rounded corners, softer, vintage
Princess: Sharp corners, modern, angular
Cushion Cut Diamond Care
- Clean regularly with warm water and mild soap
- Safe for ultrasonic and steam cleaners
- Rounded corners make cushions durable for everyday wear
- Professional inspection annually to check prongs
- Store separately to prevent scratching
Swiss Craftsmanship
Our cushion cut diamond jewelry is handcrafted in Switzerland by master artisans who select cushion diamonds with excellent fire and brilliance. Settings are designed to complement the romantic, vintage-inspired character while ensuring secure, durable designs.
Perfect For
- Vintage and romantic aesthetics
- Those seeking exceptional fire and colored light
- Engagement rings with soft, feminine appeal
- Those who love antique jewelry
- Alternative to round diamonds with more character
- Halo settings and vintage-inspired designs
View cushion cut engagement rings or contact us to create a custom cushion cut piece.
Payments Plans
Installment payments are available for Swiss residents, with 0% interest on purchases up to CHF 5,000 at checkout. For higher-value pieces, please contact us to arrange a personalized payment plan.