What Diamond Shape Sparkles the Most?

What Diamond Shape Sparkles the Most

What diamond shape sparkles the most? Sparkle, brilliance, and fire are what make many of us fall in love with diamonds in the first place. Shape counts for sparkle, but cut counts more. This guide explains why, compares popular shapes, and gives practical tips so you can pick a ring that truly shines.

Brilliance vs. Fire: What To Look For

When we speak of sparkle, we usually mean two things: 

  • Brilliance:
    The white light reflected from a diamond.

  • Fire:
    The coloured flashes (rainbow-like) a diamond flashes.

Both are controlled by a diamond cut (the proportioning of the facets and finishing). Therefore, because a round diamond is poorly cut, it may not shine as much as a princess or oval which is well cut. Focus on the cut grade and facet precision first, then shape.

Discover the beauty of artificial diamonds in Australia!

Which Shapes Tend to Sparkle Most?

Shape

Typical Sparkle Characteristics

Best For

Round Brilliant

Highest average brilliance and balanced fire when well cut, engineered for sparkle.

Classic, maximum light return

Oval

Very sparkly with an elongated look; can show a “bow-tie” dark area if cut poorly.

Finger-flattering, modern classic

Princess

Strong brilliance with a lively, geometric flash.

Modern, square silhouettes

Cushion

Soft, romantic sparkle, mixes brilliant and larger facet flashes (more fire).

Vintage/antique looks

Emerald

“Hall-of-mirrors” effect, more subtle brilliance, emphasizes clarity over sparkle.

Elegant, understated styles

Asscher / Radiant

Radiant mixes step and brilliant facets for strong, unique sparkle.

Bold, art-deco, or modern looks

Why Round Brilliants Usually Top the List

The optimum cut of the round brilliant was designed to reflect the greatest amount of light to the eye; the facet design and ratio can make the round brilliant the most sparkling when fashioned to optimal specifications. That is why rounds are selling engagement rings and why, when you want the most brilliance, rounds are a sure thing.

Shop premium dia studs here!

Practical Tips: Getting The Most Sparkle

  1. Prioritize cut grade:
    For rounds, look for Excellent/Ideal cuts. For fancy shapes, ask for performance metrics or real-life photos.

  2. Watch for the bow-tie:
    Elongated shapes (oval, marquise, pear) can show a dark “bow-tie” if poorly cut, see multiple images.

  3. Choose the right setting:
    Prong and halo settings let more light into the stone; heavy bezels reduce perceived sparkle.

  4. Inspect in real light:
    Photos are not substitutes for videos or watching under different lighting conditions.

Check out our collection of diamond earrings here!

Final Thoughts

So, what diamond shape sparkles the most? The round brilliant is technically the most beautiful, although a well-cut of any kind will be superior to a poorly cut round. Pay attention to the detail of the cut, look at real photos or videos, and select a setting that enhances light return. To learn more about selecting the appropriate diamond, check out our Diamond 4Cs guide as well as shop styles in our Engagement Ring Collection!

 

Back to blog