Diamond Shape Guide
Princess
The princess cut is a brilliant square with exceptional sparkle and a contemporary aesthetic — the second most popular shape after round.
50-58 facetsShop Princess Diamonds
About the Princess
Developed in the 1980s, the princess cut is the most popular fancy shape diamond. Its sharp, uncut corners and brilliant-style faceting produce exceptional fire and scintillation in a modern square format. The princess cut retains approximately 80% of the rough diamond crystal — more than almost any other shape — which contributes to its attractive pricing. The geometric lines of the princess make it a favourite for contemporary and architectural ring designs, and it pairs beautifully with channel-set side stones.
360° View
Animated 360° rotation — see how light moves through the princess cut
Characteristics
- Square or near-square with sharp corners
- Brilliant-style faceting for maximum sparkle
- Excellent rough retention — good value
- Modern, geometric aesthetic
Ideal Settings
- Channel
- Bezel (protective)
- V-prong
- Princess halo
- Solitaire
Advantages
- Strong brilliance in a modern square shape
- Excellent value — high rough retention keeps prices lower
- Contemporary aesthetic that suits modern settings
- Clean geometric lines
Considerations
- Sharp corners are vulnerable to chipping — protective settings essential
- Can show colour more than rounds in the corners
- Difficult to assess proportions without expert guidance
Size Guide
A 1-carat princess measures approximately 5.5 x 5.5mm. The ideal length-to-width ratio for a square is 1.00-1.05:1. Always ensure corner prongs are included in the setting for protection.
Shop Princess Diamonds
Browse our live inventory of princess diamonds — GIA and IGI certified.