Shapes - Elongated Cushion

Everything You Need to Know About Elongated Cushion Cut Diamonds

With its vintage charm and romantic elegance, the elongated cushion cut diamond has become a sought-after choice for those seeking a balance between classic beauty and modern sophistication. In this guide, we’ll get into the origins, characteristics, and unique facets of this exquisite diamond cut, which is a firm favorite among A-listers like Sophia Veraga.

What is an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond?

An elongated cushion cut diamond is a stunning variation of the traditional cushion cut diamond. It is characterized by its distinctive rectangular or square shape with softly rounded corners, creating a pillow-like appearance. With 77 brilliant cut facets, it is a fiery cut that enhances the diamond’s brilliance, making it a popular and elegant choice for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces.

1 carat Elongated Cushion cut Diamond

What sets the elongated cushion cut apart are its elongated proportions, where the length-to-width ratio is greater than that of a standard cushion cut. This elongation gives the diamond a graceful and elegant silhouette that is highly coveted by those seeking a unique and eye-catching engagement ring.

The elongated cushion cut combines the best of both worlds, offering the vintage appeal of a cushion cut with a contemporary twist, resulting in a diamond that will never go out of style.

History of the Elongated Cushion Cut

The history of the elongated cushion cut diamond dates back to the 19th century, during the height of the Romantic and Victorian eras. It emerged as a popular choice during a time when diamonds were becoming increasingly sought after for engagement rings and other fine jewelry pieces.

During the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s, the elongated cushion cut experienced a surge in popularity. This era celebrated geometric designs and intricate detailing, making the elongated cushion cut a favored choice for engagement rings during this time. The cut showcased the beauty of diamonds in a way that complemented the clean lines and symmetrical patterns of Art Deco jewelry. Over time, the elongated cushion cut continued to captivate jewelry enthusiasts, and its timeless appeal remains strong in the present day.

Why Choose an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond?

Here are a few compelling reasons why an elongated cushion cut might be the perfect choice for you:

• The elongated cushion cut combines the timeless elegance of a cushion cut diamond with an elongated shape, creating a captivating and sophisticated look.
  
  
• Its elongated silhouette draws attention and creates a distinctive presence on the finger. If you want a diamond that catches the eye and sparks conversation, the elongated cushion cut is an excellent choice.

• Elongated cushion cut diamonds are known for their exceptional brilliance and fire. With their large facets and ample surface area, they reflect light beautifully, resulting in a mesmerizing display of sparkle.
  
  
• The elongated shape can create the illusion of a larger diamond. The elongation adds visual impact, making the diamond appear larger on the finger compared to a round or perfectly square diamond of the same carat weight.

4 carat Elongated Cushion cut Diamond

What Setting is Best for Elongated Cushion Cuts?

The elongated cushion cut looks stunning in a variety of settings. For example:

• Side Stone: A side stone setting like The Lindsey would complement an elongated cushion cut diamond beautifully. The smaller accent diamonds flanking the center stone adds extra sparkle and amplifies the overall brilliance of the diamond.

• Three-Stone: An elongated cushion cut diamond in a three-stone setting like The Naomi creates a perfect balance of vintage and contemporary appeal. The two side stones flanking the center diamond can be of various shapes, such as pear or marquise cuts, which complement the cushion cut's softened corners.
  
  
• Solitaire: A classic solitaire like The Kamellie keeps the focus on the center diamond, allowing its unique shape and brilliance to take center stage. The clean and understated look of a solitaire setting accentuates the diamond's natural beauty and creates a sophisticated engagement ring.

What Are the Downsides of an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamonds?

While elongated cushion cut diamonds offer many desirable qualities, it's important to consider potential downsides before making your final decision. Here are a few factors to keep in mind:

• Elongated cushion cut diamonds, like other fancy-shaped diamonds, can sometimes exhibit a bowtie effect. This refers to a dark or shadowy area resembling a bowtie shape that appears across the center of the diamond. The intensity of the bowtie effect varies depending on the individual stone. When selecting an elongated cushion cut diamond, it's crucial to carefully evaluate the stone's light performance and ensure that any bowtie effect is minimal.

• The elongated shape of cushion cut diamonds, particularly those with sharp corners, can make them slightly more vulnerable to chipping or damage compared to round brilliant diamonds. To minimize this risk, it's important to choose a well-crafted diamond with carefully protected corners and secure settings that provide adequate protection.

It's crucial to work closely with a reputable jeweler or diamond expert who can guide you in selecting a high-quality diamond that minimizes potential drawbacks while maximizing its beauty and durability.

How to Choose an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond

When choosing an elongated cushion cut diamond, you’ll want to consider various factors, from the length to width ratio to the cut, carat weight, and other essential characteristics. Here's a breakdown of what to keep in mind:

• Length to Width Ratio: The length to width ratio refers to the proportion of the diamond's edges. A perfect square shape has an L/W ratio of 1:1. For an elongated cushion cut, the ratio exceeds 1:1.1, resulting in a rectangular appearance. The choice between a more square or more rectangular shape is a matter of personal preference and style.

• Cut and Carat Weight: With its 77 brilliant cut facets, the elongated cushion cut requires excellent cutting to maximize its crushed ice effect. Additionally, carat weight is important to evaluate as cushion-cut diamonds can appear smaller than their actual weight due to their deep pavilion and larger table, which can also make inclusions more visible.
  
  
• Depth, Table, Polish, and Symmetry: Recommended parameters for cushion cut diamonds include a depth of under 70% and a table (top surface) also under 70%. Opt for a diamond with good, very good, or excellent polish and symmetry, as these factors contribute to the diamond's overall beauty.

• Finger Coverage and Surface Area: Elongated cushion cut diamonds tend to have a larger surface area compared to other shapes, providing greater finger coverage. However, they may also have a deeper pavilion than ovals and pears while being a bit shallower than regular cushions. Consider how these factors contribute to your desired look: you may prefer something understated like The Ashley or a sparkling piece that dominates the finger (and the eye!) like The Pave Lexie.

Remember, when selecting an elongated cushion cut diamond, there is no right or wrong shape—choose what speaks to your personal taste. Take your time, examine various options, and consult with a trusted jeweler who can guide you through the selection process.