Are Cushion Cut Diamonds More Expensive?
Cushion cut diamonds are known for their romantic and vintage appeal, but many wonder if their unique beauty comes at a higher price. The answer, like most things in the diamond world, is it depends.
Here's a breakdown of factors that influence the price of cushion cut diamonds:
Carat Weight:
Like all diamond shapes, larger cushion cut diamonds are significantly more expensive due to their rarity. The price per carat increases exponentially as the size grows.
Clarity:
Cushion cuts, with their larger facets, tend to show inclusions more prominently than other shapes. Therefore, a cushion cut with a higher clarity grade (e.g., VS1, VVS1) will be more expensive than one with lower clarity (e.g., SI1, SI2).
Color:
While cushion cuts can mask some color, a higher color grade (D-F) will still command a premium price compared to lower grades (J-K).
Cut:
The cut of a cushion cut diamond is crucial to its brilliance and fire. A well-cut cushion with excellent proportions and symmetry will be more expensive than one with poor cut quality. This is because a good cut maximizes the diamond's sparkle and brilliance.
Polish and Symmetry:
Excellent polish and symmetry enhance a cushion cut's sparkle and brilliance, driving up the price.
Fluorescence:
Fluorescence is the way a diamond reacts to UV light. While it can enhance a diamond's brilliance, some types of fluorescence can make a diamond appear hazy or milky. Diamonds with strong fluorescence are usually priced lower.
Comparing Cushion Cuts to Other Shapes:
Cushion cuts are often priced similarly to princess cuts, but may be slightly more expensive than round brilliant cuts due to their unique cutting process and the need for higher clarity and color grades to mask inclusions.
Ultimately, the price of a cushion cut diamond depends on a combination of factors.
Here's a tip: When choosing a cushion cut diamond, focus on finding a stone with excellent cut, good clarity, and a color grade that suits your budget. Don't be afraid to explore different options and compare prices from reputable dealers.
