The history of the Princess Cut diamond, a popular and elegant diamond shape, is a relatively recent one compared to other classic diamond shapes like the round brilliant cut. The Princess Cut is a square or rectangular-shaped diamond with pointed corners and is characterised by its brilliant cut, which maximises the diamond’s sparkle and fire. Here’s a brief overview of the history of the Princess Cut diamond:
- Inception: The Princess Cut was first developed in the 1960s, and it is often credited to Arpad Nagy, a London diamond cutter. He created the Princess Cut by applying a modified brilliant cut to a square-shaped diamond, giving it a unique combination of facets that enhanced its brilliance.
- Early variations: The Princess Cut, as it is known today, has undergone some refinements and changes over the years. Initially, the cut featured step-cut facets, but it evolved into the more popular brilliant-cut design, which maximises the diamond’s ability to reflect light and create a sparkling effect.
- Rise in popularity: The Princess Cut gained popularity over the years, particularly in the 1980s and 1990s, as it offered a contemporary and unique alternative to the traditional round brilliant cut. It became a sought-after choice for engagement rings and other jewellery.
- Advantages: The Princess Cut’s main advantages include its square or rectangular shape, which can make it appear larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight, and its brilliant-cut facets, which provide excellent sparkle and fire.
- Versatility: Princess Cut diamonds are versatile and can be set in a variety of styles, from solitaire engagement rings to multi-stone designs. They are also suitable for both modern and vintage-inspired jewelry settings.
- Popularity in the modern era: Today, the Princess Cut remains one of the most popular diamond shapes for engagement rings and other jewellery. It is often chosen for its contemporary look and affordability compared to round brilliant cuts.
- Cuts and quality: As with any diamond, the quality of a Princess Cut diamond is determined by factors such as cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. It’s essential to choose a well-cut Princess Cut diamond to maximise its brilliance and overall appearance.
In summary, the Princess Cut diamond has a relatively short but notable history, emerging in the mid-20th century and gaining popularity for its unique square or rectangular shape and brilliant-cut facets. It has since become a classic choice for engagement rings and other jewellery, offering a modern and elegant alternative to traditional diamond shapes.
