The Ultimate Guide to Princess Cut Engagement Rings: What to Know Before You Buy
May 2nd, 2023
Princess Cut Engagement Rings: A Complete Guide for Modern Brides
If you're dreaming of an engagement ring that combines elegance, sparkle, and timeless appeal, the princess-cut diamond could be the perfect match. With its sharp lines and dazzling brilliance, this square-shaped stone has become one of the most sought-after diamond shapes for proposals across the globe.
In this guide, you'll discover everything you need to know about princess cut engagement rings—from what makes them unique to how to choose the perfect one for your love story.
What Is a Princess Cut Diamond?
The princess cut is a square or rectangular diamond with pointed corners and exceptional brilliance. Unlike a round cut, the princess cut has a more modern and angular aesthetic. It was introduced in the 1960s as a contemporary alternative to traditional round diamonds and quickly became popular for its edgy elegance and dynamic sparkle.
This cut is categorized as a brilliant cut, meaning it is designed to reflect maximum light and shine brightly from every angle.
Why Choose a Princess Cut Engagement Ring?
There are several reasons why a princess-cut engagement ring continues to be a favorite:
- Striking shape: The sharp, square lines offer a sleek and contemporary look.
- Exceptional brilliance: Its faceting style enhances sparkle, making it one of the most radiant diamond cuts.
- Versatility: It looks stunning in a variety of settings—solitaire, halo, pavé, and more.
- Cost-effective: Princess cuts often appear larger per carat compared to round diamonds and can be slightly less expensive.
What a Princess Cut Diamond Symbolizes
The princess cut often represents modern romance, boldness, and individuality. Its sharp angles are seen as a sign of strength and confidence, while its brilliance reflects passion and clarity in a relationship.
For many couples, choosing this cut means embracing a love story that is both powerful and unique.
4. Pros and Cons of Princess Cut Diamonds
✔ Pros
- Brilliant sparkle and fire
- Modern and sophisticated shape
- Often more affordable than round cuts
- Works well with many ring settings
✘ Cons
- Pointed corners are more vulnerable to chipping
- Requires secure settings to protect the corners
- Slight inclusions may be more visible due to its faceting pattern
5. Best Settings for Princess Cut Engagement Rings
The right setting enhances the beauty of the princess cut while keeping it secure. Here are some of the best options:
● Solitaire Setting
A timeless favorite that lets the diamond take center stage. Clean, classic, and perfect for minimalists.
● Halo Setting
Surrounds the center stone with smaller diamonds, creating extra sparkle and making the center diamond appear larger.
● Bezel Setting
Encases the diamond in a protective metal rim, perfect for people with active lifestyles or those seeking durability.
● Channel Setting
Side diamonds are set into the band, adding glamour and ensuring a smooth finish.
● Three-Stone Setting
Symbolizes the past, present, and future of your relationship. Works beautifully with princess cuts for both center and side stones.
What to Know About Diamond Quality (The 4Cs)
When shopping for a princess-cut diamond, it's essential to understand the 4Cs:
● Cut
For princess cuts, symmetry and proportions are critical to ensure maximum brilliance. Choose a stone with excellent or very good cut quality.
● Clarity
This cut can hide some inclusions, but avoid stones with visible flaws near the corners where they are most vulnerable.
● Color
Princess cuts tend to show more color than round diamonds, so many opt for near-colorless grades (G–H) for the best balance of beauty and value.
● Carat
Princess cuts have a slightly smaller face-up size compared to round diamonds of the same carat weight, but their bold shape makes them appear substantial on the hand.
Choosing the Right Metal for Your Ring
The metal you choose will affect both the ring’s appearance and its durability:
- White Gold: Enhances the icy brilliance of the diamond; a popular modern choice.
- Yellow Gold: Offers a rich contrast and a vintage appeal.
- Rose Gold: Soft, romantic, and unique—perfect for a modern twist.
- Platinum: Durable, hypoallergenic, and elegant—an excellent choice for heirloom-quality rings.
Each metal has its own aesthetic and practical advantages, so consider your lifestyle, skin tone, and preferences when choosing.
Final Thoughts
A princess-cut engagement ring is more than a beautiful piece of jewellery—it’s a reflection of your story, your values, and your vision of forever. Whether you're drawn to its modern edge, its brilliance, or its timeless symbolism, this cut offers a versatile and breathtaking option for those ready to take the next step.
When selecting the perfect ring, consider your partner’s style, the setting, the 4Cs, and the metal that best complements the diamond. With thoughtful planning, your princess cut ring will be a cherished symbol of love and commitment for a lifetime.
