Elongated Cushion Cuts are long, elegant gemstones that make incredible engagement rings. Because of their slender shapes, they look larger than many other cuts in the same carat weight. They also gracefully elongate the fingers of the wearer! I love this shape; we chose it for my engagement ring! So, I know all the tricks to picking the best one. Here’s what you need to know:
What is an Elongated Cushion Cut?
An Elongated Cushion Cut is shaped like a rectangular pillow. Whereas many Cushion Cut gems are somewhat square, what makes an Elongated Cushion Cut different is its extraordinarily long length-to-width ratio (more on that below!). In other words, an Elongated Cushion Cut is tall and skinny! Elongated Cushion Cuts are typically brilliant cut gemstones, meaning that they give off a lot of sparkle.
Are elongated cushion diamonds rare?
The longer the cushion, the rarer the diamond! Diamonds that are only a little elongated, around 1.10 and below, are common. Stones between 1.11 and 1.18 are rarer, while stones above 1.19 are pretty hard to come by. So, if you’re looking for a really elongated stone, make sure to build in some time for your search!
Left: Square Cushion Diamond | Right: Elongated Cushion Diamond
What are the Best Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Ring Stones?
The best gemstones for an Elongated Cushion Engagement Ring are Diamond, Sapphire, Ruby, Spinel, and Garnet. These gems are the best choice for an Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Ring because they are durable and naturally grow in long crystals. What’s great about choosing a long-crystal gem for your Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Ring is that they will be less expensive (less waste during cutting) and you’ll have a better selection of stones to choose from.
What I mean by “durable” is a gem’s ability to stand up to daily wear. I consider Diamond, Sapphire, Ruby, Spinel, and Garnet “durable” because they are all 7.5+/10 on the Moh’s Hardness Scale. So, they will not scratch or chip easily. Diamond is the hardest at a 10/10, followed by Sapphire and Ruby at 9/10, Spinel at 8/10, and most varieties of Garnet are around 7.5/10. So, depending upon the color you want, there’s plenty of options at every budget.
How Do I Pick the Best Elongated Cushion Cut?
Step 1: Size
Size
This may sound crazy, but the way you get what you really want is to slap a ruler on your finger! Because an Elongated Cushion Cut is really a look, you likely have an idea of what shape and size you’re going for. So, measure it out. Jewelers use millimeters when they measure gemstones. Use a ruler to find the length and width you want. This will also inform what gemstone is best for you (some crystals form bigger than others)!
What is Length-to-Width Ratio?
Length-to-Width Ratio is a helpful measurement calculation which allows you to pick how plump or skinny your Elongated Cushion Cut is. To calculate a Length-to-Width Ratio, simply divide the gemstone’s width by its length. So, aLength-to-Width Ratio of 1.0 is perfectly square. On the other hand, bigger Length-to-Width Ratios will appear long and skinny. The defining feature of an Elongated Cushion Cut is that it’s, you guessed it, long. So, in order to get the look, you’ll want to choose a long Length-to-Width Ratio (think 1.15+ for diamonds and 1.4+ for gemstones).
Pink Sapphire with 1.4 Length-to-Width Ratio
Blue Sapphire with 1.6 Length-to-Width Ratio
Ruby with 1.7 Length-to-Width Ratio
Step 2: Color & Gemstone
The next step is choosing your color and gemstone. The size and shape you chose will help you with this selection!
Colorless Elongated Cushions
Those looking for a traditional colorless Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Ring should check out these Diamonds and also consider White Sapphire and Moissanite. When looking for an Elongated Cushion Diamond, look for length-to-width ratios of 1.19 and above. Be warned, you will not likely find a cushion cut Diamond with a length-to-width ratio longer than 1.25 due to Diamond crystal shape. Natural White Sapphires longer than 1.4 are also rare. However, Lab White Sapphire, Moissanite, and Lab Diamonds can be grown and cut to very long lengths! So, if you have a long, elegant shape in mind, we can happily custom cut it for you.
Sneaky Trick: We know we always tell you to look for “Excellent” cut quality in our Diamonds. This one’s a special exception, though. Leave that part out for this round. The search engine will think these stones are “too long” and filter them out!
Blue Elongated Cushions
Those looking for a regal blue Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Ring should look at Blue Sapphire and Blue Spinel (read here about the difference between these two stones). Because Sapphire and Spinel grow in nice long crystals, Elongated Cushion cuts are pretty common! Those looking for a larger stone will like the value that comes with Spinel. However, those looking for a deeper blue will likely find Sapphire more to their liking. Both Sapphire and Spinel are available in Lab-created versions, too.
Left: Blue Sapphire | Right: Blue Spinel
Pink Elongated Cushions
Pretty pink Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Rings may be made from Pink Sapphire or Pink Spinel. As with their blue cousins, couples looking for a larger stone will find a better value in Pink Spinel. However, Sapphire tends to be a purer pink and a harder gem. So, the choice is up to you! Again, both of these gems are available in Lab versions.
Left: Pink Sapphire | Right: Pink Spinel
Red Elongated Cushions
Finally, those looking for a passionate red Elongated Cushion Cut Engagement Ring should consider Ruby, Red Spinel, and Garnet. Garnet is by far the most affordable of these options, with large stones often available under $1,000. Next comes Spinel, with large stones and more durability. Ruby is the rarest and most precious of these gems, and so commands the highest prices.
Left: Ruby | Middle: Red Spinel | Right: Garnet
Not sure what to pick? Or want a different color? These are just the most popular, there are more options! Email me here and I’ll help you choose the perfect stone.
3. Cut Quality
Two really important things to look for in a high-quality Elongated Cushion Cut are facet symmetry and lack of bow-tie effect. Another thing to look out for is whether your stone is modern or antique.
Facet Symmetry
Because Elongated Cushion Cuts are extra long (and often not considered “Excellent cut” for this reason), paying attention to the quality of its faceting is really important. This is because gemstones that fall outside of “Excellent” standard are often imperfect. But, as you can see, not always! You just chose a really special shape. “Facet symmetry” means that the little cuts all over your stone mirror each other from left to right. So, when looking for an Elongated Cushion Cut, draw an imaginary line down the center of your stone. Do they look like mirror halves? Bingo! If they look kinda haphazard, pass on it.
Top Row: Poor Symmetry | Bottom Row: Good Symmetry
Antique Stones
Another thing to consider is whether the stone you’re purchasing has an antique cut or a traditional cut. There are a significant amount of Elongated Cushion diamonds out there that were faceted way before we really knew about how to maximize brilliance. In other words, while antique Elongated Cushions have a charm all their own (I adore them) they do not give off as much brilliance as modern Elongated Cushions. A quick way to look for this is a large culet (the bottom facet). If a stone has a large culet and less symmetrical facets, you’re looking at an antique stone!
Antique Elongated Cushion Diamond
Uneven Light Return
Because you’re choosing such a long stone, some gems will exhibit uneven light return. What I mean by that is the gem will be brighter in the center or on the ends, instead of being bright throughout. Don’t let uneven light return ruin your stone! Instead, look for even sparkle and light return in your Elongated Cushion Cut.
Left: Even Light Return; Right: Half/Half Extinction
Can You Help Me Choose a Perfect Elongated Cushion Cut?
I sure can! My name is Corinne, and I’m obsessed with them. Send me a note here, or email me here! Tell me everything you are looking for, or ask me any questions!
FAQs
What is the best ratio for elongated cushion cut? ›
Typically, an elongated cushion cut with a square-ish shape will have a ratio of 1:1 or 1:1.5, meaning that one side is only slightly longer than the other. Rectangular elongated cushion cuts typically have a ratio of 1:2, where one side can be twice as long as the other.
What is the best setting for an elongated cushion cut diamond? ›The cushion cut diamond always looks sensational in a halo setting, in which the center stone is surrounded by smaller accent diamonds adding scintillating sparkle to the look. This is a great setting to maximise your budget, as it accentuates the cushion cut diamond, making it appear larger than its actual size.
How do you find an elongated cushion cut? ›When looking for an Elongated Cushion Diamond, look for length-to-width ratios of 1.19 and above. Be warned, you will not likely find a cushion cut Diamond with a length-to-width ratio longer than 1.25 due to Diamond crystal shape. Natural White Sapphires longer than 1.4 are also rare.
What band looks best on a cushion cut? ›Cushion-Cut
“Cushion cuts have a great sparkle, so a simple cushion French set band looks great,” she explains.
The elongated cushion will enhance the size of the stone, making it appear bigger than it actually is. However, they are more expensive because they are more desirable to most individuals. There is no right or wrong when picking the perfect shape cushion for you, it's all about what appeals to your eye.
Why do cushion cut diamonds look smaller? ›Cushion cut diamonds look smaller than some other shapes. Cushions “face up” smaller than some other diamond shapes , which makes them look smaller when seen from the top. As they are cut deeper, they carry more of their weight on the bottom of the stone, where it can't be seen.
What setting makes diamond look bigger? ›Bezel setting: In this setting style, a band of metal surrounds the diamond's girdle. As a result, the diamond's circumference may appear to be larger. Bezel engagement ring settings also afford extra protection against accidental bangs and bumps. TIP: The bezel setting is generally used for round and oval diamonds.
Does a higher ring setting make the diamond look bigger? ›Does a High Setting Make a Diamond Look Bigger? As we established above, yes, a high setting can make a diamond look bigger. This is especially true if you pair a high setting with a thin ring shank or band.
What setting makes engagement ring look bigger? ›In a halo setting, your center stone is surrounded by a shimmering ring of smaller accent diamonds. This brilliant halo optically extends the size of your center diamond, making it look much larger. The extra shimmer provided by the diamonds in a halo setting adds to this effect.
Is it hard to find an elongated cushion cut diamond? ›Squarish cushions cut diamonds are pretty common, though it's more rare to find a perfect 1:1 ratio. Elongated cushion cut diamonds can be absolutely stunning, but also nearly impossible to find.
What is 1.15 elongated cushion ratio? ›
For a truly elongated shape, look for a ratio of 1.15 to 1.20. This means that one side is 15%-20% longer that the other, giving the diamond a defined rectangular shape.
What color and clarity is best for cushion cut diamond? ›Color: We recommend a color grade of H or better. Clarity: For the best value, stick with an SI1 clarity grade or better. Cushion cuts have a large open table, which means that it may be difficult to find an eye-clean SI2.
Which diamond shape sparkles the most? ›Round Cut Diamonds Sparkle The Most
The standard round cut diamond comprises 57 facets (58 including one on the bezel). This cut heightens the diamond's sparkle and shine. Because round diamonds have the largest number of facets, they create the most sparkle.
However, the price of cushion diamonds can change depending on popularity, as with any other diamond shape. Cushion-cut diamonds often have a softer, more subtle sparkle than round-shaped diamonds, which may be more appealing to some diamond shoppers. Like round diamonds, they typically have 58 facets.
What does cushion cut ring say about you? ›Cushion Cut: You Are Romantic & Timeless
You have a natural elegance that shows in everything you do. Your combination of sense and sensibility is the perfect match to the cushion cut, a fashionable shape with a touch of vintage romance.
The most expensive diamond cut is the round brilliant because it wastes the highest amount of rough stone – around 60% on average – during the cutting process.
How many carat is Hailey Bieber ring? ›Hailey's engagement ring carries 10-carat oval-shaped diamond and round diamond bands. In ouros jewels, you can easily select an oval-shaped diamond ring that Hailey Bieber has. We used certified lab-grown diamonds for making your engagement ring as Hailey Bieber ring.
Which is more important diamond color or clarity? ›Clarity is more important in shapes like emerald, princess, and asscher. Colour is important for cushion, radiant, pear and oval. Generally speaking, as long as you choose an eye-clean diamond, your diamond will still look beautiful in terms of clarity.
Why does my 2 carat diamond look small? ›That means that some fancy shapes look larger than a round brilliant of the same weight and some look smaller. A two-carat round brilliant is about 8.1mm across. A two-carat Asscher cut is about 7mm square so it doesn't look quite as large.
Why does my 1 carat diamond look small? ›A deeply cut diamond has most of its weight hidden in its depth, making it appear smaller than a well-cut diamond of the same weight. Just because the proportions of a diamond are a little off of ideal is not necessarily a bad thing.
How big is a 2ct cushion cut diamond? ›
If you choose a 2-carat cushion cut diamond, know there are certain measurements for the stone that are ideal. We recommend having a 7.34mm x 7.34mm Surface for 2 Carat Diamond.
What is the classiest diamond cut? ›1. ROUND BRILLIANT DIAMOND. By far the most popular cut is the Round Brilliant, with it's fifty-seven perfectly aligned facets it's brilliance really does out-shine the others. Total internal reflection is the key here; light travels through the stone giving optimum sparkle and scintillation.
Do 4 prongs or 6 prongs make diamond look bigger? ›Four-prong mountings make diamonds look larger, while six-prong settings make the stones look a bit smaller in comparison since more of the gemstone surface is covered with metal.
What is the most popular diamond setting? ›Solitaire. Perhaps the most popular of them all, this prong real bride engagement ring setting makes your center stone the star of the show while. It's timeless and classic, and a smart pick for those who like to keep it simple.
Which diamond cut holds its value? ›Since a round diamond is thought to hold the most value when compared to the other shapes, it will almost always be given a higher price than any other shape with similar clarity, color, and carat weight.
How many carat diamond ring is considered big? ›As we've said before, size is not the only factor to consider when selecting a ring. For many brides-to-be, things like cut or clarity may be more important than actual carat size. For the average person in the U.S., any diamond at least between 2 and 2.4 carats is considered “big,” i.e., way more than enough.
Is it better to get an engagement ring too big or too small? ›Remember, it's definitely better to size a ring up if you're unsure. A ring that's too large is easier to adjust than a ring that's too small. No ring will be perfect but strive for the best fitting ring that you can. The closer you can get to your accurate size, the better off you'll be.
What is an impressive size engagement ring? ›"Most women think of two carats as a decent-size diamond, with a typical color clarity ranging from VS1-VS2, F-G color. [D is colorless.] A noticeably big diamond will be three carats and above.
What is the most common engagement ring setting? ›PRONG SETTING
The Prong engagement ring setting is the most common setting and is sometimes referred to as the claw setting because the prongs hold the diamond in place like a claw.
Traditionally cushion cut diamonds are square, with the most common ratio (length divided by width) from 1.00 to 1.10.
What is the difference between radiant and elongated cushion cut? ›
An elongated cushion tends to be slightly wider whereas the radiant cut will appear longer but slimmer depending on the diamond you select. For example if you have an elongated 2 carat cushion cut it might measure 8mm x 7mm. By comparison an elongated radiant cut can measure 8.5mm x 6.55 for a more slender appearance.
What are the dimensions of elongated cushion? ›The elongated are about 5.55mm x 6.00mm and 5.50mm x 6.60mm.
Which diamond looks bigger round or cushion? ›Per carat, cushion cut diamonds can have a very slightly larger table (top) than round brilliant diamonds. Additionally, they have larger facets, which can make them look bigger. However, round diamonds are more brilliant than cushion cut diamonds and our eyes tend to perceive higher brilliance as a larger size.
What is the most popular diamond clarity? ›In terms of clarity, the most popular range for a diamond engagement ring is the VS1-VS2 diamond.
What matters more color clarity or cut? ›Out of the 4 C's of diamonds, the cut of the diamond is the most important. This is followed by color, clarity, and carat weight.
What is the prettiest diamond? ›- The Taylor-Burton. The pear-shaped Taylor-Burton diamond has 69.42 carats and Flawless Clarity. ...
- The Oppenheimer Blue. ...
- The Cullianan Heritage. ...
- The Hope Diamond. ...
- The Archduke Joseph.
1. Round Brilliant Cut. Round Brilliant Cut diamonds exhibit the most brilliance making them the most prized of all diamonds.
How many carats should an engagement ring have? ›One of the decisions to be made when considering the purchase of an engagement ring is how many carats should the ring be? The average according to The Knot (a research company and website for all things wedding) is 1 to 2 carats. There is no rule. Developing a budget is always a good place to start.
Which looks bigger princess or cushion? ›Even though the price per carat is lower than a round diamond, a cushion cut diamond tends to look smaller per carat than a round or princess cut. This is due to the smaller table, and the depth of the diamond.
Which looks bigger cushion or oval? ›When it comes to overall appearance ovals will always look larger than a cushion cut diamond if you compare identical weights side by side. This is due to the elongated appearance of an oval taking up more space length wise therefore giving the illusion of a larger diamond.
How do you pick a cushion cut diamond? ›
You'll want to look at the length-to-width ratio (L/W) for cushion cuts. Square shapes should have an L/W of 1.00 to 1.05. Rectangular shapes should be significantly — but not overly — elongated, with L/W of 1.15 to 1.20. Avoid the L/W "awkward zone" of 1.06 to 1.10.
How big is Blake Lively's engagement ring? ›Lively's engagement ring is a thing of beauty. Its oval cut diamond that clocks in at a whopping 12 carats. The flawless center stone is set in a thin, rose gold pave band that adds tasteful sparkle to the ring.
What is Kourtney Kardashian's ring? ›The Kourtney Kardashian engagement ring is a 12-carat oval diamond with a platinum band.
What is the length width ratio for elongated cushion cut? ›What is the ratio for elongated cushion-cut? While there is no standardized measurement defining an elongated cushion cut, the general consensus is that a cushion with a length-to-width ratio of 1:1.15 or greater is elongated.
What is the L to W ratio for elongated cushion? ›You'll want to look at the length-to-width ratio (L/W) for cushion cuts. Square shapes should have an L/W of 1.00 to 1.05. Rectangular shapes should be significantly — but not overly — elongated, with L/W of 1.15 to 1.20.
How do you calculate cushion to diamond ratio? ›Cushion Cut Diamond Length to Width Ratio
It is calculated by dividing the length of the diamond by its width. For example, if the length of a cushion cut diamond is 8.70mm, and the width is 8.32mm, its length to width ratio is 1.04.
When it comes to overall appearance ovals will always look larger than a cushion cut diamond if you compare identical weights side by side. This is due to the elongated appearance of an oval taking up more space length wise therefore giving the illusion of a larger diamond.
What are the ideal dimensions for a cushion cut diamond? ›For the optimal length-to-width ratio of a square cushion, we suggest a diamond between 1.00 and 1.09 times as long as it is wide. For a more rectangular cushion, opt for a diamond between 1.15 and 1.5 times as long as it is wide.
How many carats is a 8mm cushion cut diamond? ›| Cushion MM Size | Cushion Carat Weight |
|---|---|
| 8mm | 3 ct. |
| 9mm | 4.12 ct. |
| 10mm | 5.62 ct. |
| 11mm | 7.44 ct. |
Length (L) divided by Width (W) is the Length-to-Width ratio.
What is the difference between radiant and elongated cushion? ›
An elongated cushion tends to be slightly wider whereas the radiant cut will appear longer but slimmer depending on the diamond you select. For example if you have an elongated 2 carat cushion cut it might measure 8mm x 7mm. By comparison an elongated radiant cut can measure 8.5mm x 6.55 for a more slender appearance.
What is 1.15 ratio elongated cushion? ›For a truly elongated shape, look for a ratio of 1.15 to 1.20. This means that one side is 15%-20% longer that the other, giving the diamond a defined rectangular shape.
What is the most popular size cushion? ›Traditionally the most common size and shape for a cushion was the square, and this is available in sizes from 30cm x 30cm (12inch x 12inch), 40cm x 40cm (16inch x x16 inch), 45cm x 45cm (18inch x 18inch) and 60cm x 60cm (24inch x 24inch).
How do you determine cushion size? ›The three most important and common measurements for accurate custom seat cushion are: Width: Measured from left to right while facing your furniture. Depth: Measured from Front to Rear while facing your furniture. Thickness (Height): This measurement is made from seat bottom to the desired height or cushion thickness.