When it comes time to get engaged, you might decide that your best choice is to get a custom ring made. One thing to know when it comes to designing the perfect ring is what the various kinds of cuts are for the precious stone that you want to put in the ring. There are a lot of cuts out there, and they all have their features. 

Shape vs. Cut

Before you get into the various cuts, you need to know that while shape and cut are often used interchangeably, they are different things. The shape of the diamond refers to just that, its basic shape or outline. The cut of the diamond is all about the faceting in the diamond. The two may work together to give the best possible sparkle, but they are different things. 

Round Brilliant Cut

The round cut is usually used on round shaped stones. The cut creates 57 or 58 facets. If you want a stone that has a classic look, this cut and shape may be the thing that you are looking for. One feature of this cut is that the way it is faceted gives the stone a lot of sparkle because it reflects the light in so many ways. If you have a smaller budget, the faceting can make the stone look like you spent a lot of money because of that sparkle. 

Princess Cut

This cut is generally used on square or rectangle-shaped stones. The princess cut is a newer cut, so if you want something modern looking, this may be a perfect choice. This cut has some of the sparkle of the round cut, but the shape and cut put together moves the sparkle out from the center of the stone toward the edges and corners of the stone. It's possible to see flashes of colors from the corners of the diamond with a princess cut. 

Marquise Cut

This cut is supposed to have come from the French court hundreds of years ago. It is generally used with an elongated and pointed oval shape. Like the round cut, it has 58 facets. If you want something that is very regal and looks like an antique, this might be an excellent cut to think about. 

If you are getting ready to design a custom engagement ring, you need to know some of the various cuts you are going to run across. To learn more, contact a custom jewelry service in your area.