Cushion/Cushion-cut Diamond - Classic elegance with soft brilliance
Cushion, or cushion-cut diamond, is a timeless and romantic shape with roots from the 19th century. With its rounded corners and soft proportions, it combines vintage character with brilliance - perfect for those who want something both classic and personal.
What is a cushion grind?
The shape resembles a cushion - square or slightly rectangular with softly rounded corners. It usually has 58-64 facets and offers a warm, sparkling light reflection. Cushion is one of the most versatile cut shapes and is available in several variations with different visual expressions.
History and development
The cushion cut has been around for over 200 years and was the dominant shape in the 19th century - long before the round brilliant took over. The modern version combines historical charm with improved optical properties thanks to new cutting techniques.
Today, advanced 3D scanning of rough diamonds is used to optimize facet placement and minimize material waste. The cushion shape requires less cutting than, for example, round brilliants, which often makes it slightly more affordable per carat.
Types of cushion cuts
Cushion Brilliant: Similar to round brilliant in facet structure. Lots of sparkle, clear center reflection, classic appearance.
Cushion Modified Brilliant: Gives a “crushed ice” effect with scattered sparkle. The facets on the underside do not reach all the way to the edge. Popular for its lively surface and often more affordable.
Cushion Hybrid: A combination of both above – with extra facets for increased shine but more defined texture than Modified. A balance between clarity and brilliance.
Tip: Cushion Hybrid is particularly sought after among lab-grown diamonds and is available in many variations in our lab-grown cushion range .
Benefits of cushion grinding
- Romantic shape: Soft lines give a feminine, classic expression.
- Versatility: Works in everything from solitaire to halo or three-stone ring.
- Affordability: More of the rough stone is preserved compared to round – lower price per carat.
- High brilliance: Especially in the Brilliant and Hybrid variants.
- Everyday comfort: The rounded corners don't get caught in clothes or hair as easily.
Recommended proportions and ratios
| Class | Table % | Depth % | Ratio |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ideal / Excellent | 61-67 | 61-67 | 1.00-1.05 (square) / 1.10-1.20 (rectangular) |
| Very good | 58-70 | 58-70 | 1.06-1.30 |
| Acceptable | 56-72 | 56-72 | 1.31-1.35 |
💡 Tip: Square cushion diamonds (ratio 1.00–1.05) are more rare and sought after than rectangular ones. Choose based on your style - square gives more balance, rectangular more length effect.
Size guide in mm for cushion
| Carat | Approximate dimensions (mm) |
|---|---|
| 0.50 ct | about 4.9 mm |
| 1.00 ct | approx. 6.0-6.2 mm |
| 1.50 ct | about 6.5-6.8 mm |
| 2.00 ct | approx. 7.0-7.5 mm |
| 3.00 ct | approx. 8.0-8.5 mm |
| 5.00 ct | approx. 9.5-10.0 mm |
(Dimensions vary depending on ratio and depth.)
Advice – What should you consider?
Color: The cushion shape shows color slightly more clearly than the round brilliant. For white metal, colors D–G are recommended. In yellow gold, H–I also works.
Clarity: The open surfaces and larger facets mean that inclusions can be more visible. Preferably choose SI1–VS1 , or higher for larger stones.
Grinding: Always examine symmetry, depth and table in the absence of official grinding grading. Use 360° viewing if possible – especially important for the Modified variant. Read more about grinding quality .
Common cushion frames
- Solitaire - Elegant and timeless.
- Halo - Enhances shape and perceived size.
- Side stones - Add width and additional sparkle - especially beautiful in three-stone designs.
Lab-grown vs. natural cushion diamonds
At Diamant Banken you will find both natural and lab-grown cushion diamonds - all certified and quality controlled. Cushion is particularly popular among lab-grown diamonds, thanks to the opportunity to experiment with different variations and sizes at a better price level.
Easily filter our selection
In our range - for both natural and lab-grown diamonds - you can filter by cushion cut, carat, colour, clarity and certificate type. All stones are displayed with exact measurements in millimetres and 360° views, so you know exactly what you're getting.