An engagement ring is a once-in-a-lifetime piece. Precisely because it is such a meaningful purchase, why not express a sense of individuality?
In recent years, beginning with overseas celebrities, more people have chosen fancy-coloured diamonds and uniquely shaped diamonds for their engagement rings. This article introduces ideas for choosing a lifelong engagement ring in a way that is free, joyful, and unconstrained by conventional expectations.
Point of Interest (1): Diamond Shape - Fancy Shape
Are you familiar with the term “fancy shape”?
Fancy shapes refer to all diamond cuts other than the round brilliant cut — the classic circular, sparkling style.
With so many variations available, simply changing the shape of a diamond can completely transform the impression of a ring.
When chosen in harmony with personal fashion or one’s inner character, the shape can beautifully highlight individuality. Discover the shape that feels just right.
1) Princess cut diamonds
A square or near-square shape with balanced proportions, the princess cut is the second most popular modern diamond cut after the round brilliant. Its elongated facets create a brilliance sometimes described as a “mosaic” pattern when reflecting light.
Typically cut close to a 1:1 ratio, slight variations occur depending on how the original rough is shaped for optimal proportion. The result is a refined sparkle combined with clean, straight lines that give the hand a sharp and elegant appearance.
(2) Oval cut diamond
Derived from the Latin word "ovum", meaning “egg,” the oval cut features a graceful elongated silhouette. It offers a classical, mature impression softened by gentle curves.
Set vertically, it can make the fingers appear longer; set horizontally, it conveys a sense of richness and volume, enhancing the wearer’s style.
(3) Heart-cut diamonds
A symbol of love and devotion, the heart shape is ideal for bridal jewellery. Creating a heart cut requires removing more of the original rough, making it rarer than many other cut styles.
While it carries a charming sweetness, worn on a more mature hand it can express playful elegance. A cut that conveys a promise of love into the future.
(4) Pear-shaped diamonds
Also known as the teardrop shape, this silhouette combines elements of the round and marquise cuts.
Its soft fullness paired with sharp lines creates a delicate yet graceful mood, and it is known for making the fingers appear slender and elongated.
5) Marquise-cut diamonds
With two arcs meeting in sharp points, the marquise resembles a leaf, petal, or rugby ball. Because of its elongated surface area, it appears larger than other cuts of the same carat weight.
Its refined atmosphere complements classical, antique-inspired, and minimalist designs alike — a cool yet graceful cut well suited to jewellery meant to last a lifetime.
(6) Cushion cut diamonds
Also known as an antique cut or pillow cut, the cushion cut features softened square corners. Larger facets allow the diamond’s clarity to be appreciated.
With its understated antique mood, it remains a timeless design — even used in engagement rings by Harry Winston. Combining softness with formality, it is ideal for those seeking a touch of individuality without being overly unconventional.
(7) Emerald cut diamond
Based on a rectangular shape with trimmed corners, the emerald cut forms an elegant octagon. Its parallel step-cut facets create a subtle, understated brilliance that emphasises transparency.
Often used for emerald gemstones, this cut is recommended for those who prefer quiet sophistication over intense sparkle.
A Reminder: What Is the Round Brilliant Cut?
The round brilliant appears circular from above and features 58 facets, including the culet, designed to maximise brilliance.
It is the most standard cut style and has defined the very image of a sparkling diamond.
Point of interest 2: Colored diamonds, where color expresses individuality
Coloured diamonds are formed when specific elements are present within the crystal structure or when structural distortions occur. While colourless diamonds are traditionally valued, vividly coloured diamonds are rare and can command high prices.
Natural or colored?
In addition to naturally formed coloured diamonds, there are also artificially treated stones. Though they may appear similar, their value differs significantly in the market.
What Are Fancy Colour Diamonds?
Within the 4Cs grading system, diamonds that fall outside the D–Z colour range — meaning they display stronger colour than Z — are classified as fancy colour diamonds. Because natural fancy colours are extremely rare, many never reach the general market and are instead sold at auction or preserved in prestigious collections, such as the Harry Winston Gallery at the Smithsonian National Museum of Natural History.
A diamond is both a miracle formed over billions of years and an art piece shaped by the vision of skilled craftsmen and designers.
Color Variations
Natural coloured diamonds derive their hues from trace elements and structural conditions within the crystal. While rarity and value may draw attention, each coloured diamond possesses its own unique tone. Choosing a colour guided by personal sensibility and intuition can be a rewarding experience.
1) Red diamonds
Among the rarest coloured diamonds, red diamonds are almost never seen on the market. Even with modern technology, the exact cause of their colour remains mysterious.
They often appear as a vivid pinkish red, sometimes tinged with orange, purple, or brown.
(2) Green diamonds
Green diamonds are also rare, believed to form when natural radiation affects the crystal structure.
Typically lighter and often tinged with grey or brown, stones with vivid colour and minimal inclusions are highly valued.
(3) Purple diamonds
Purple diamonds are essentially pink diamonds with stronger blue undertones. Deep, vivid examples are rarely seen on the open market.
If insufficiently blue, they may be graded as pink; if too dark, they may be classified as brown.
(4) Orange diamonds
Orange colouring is thought to result from the presence of nitrogen. Some stones display red or yellow undertones.
Although rare, stones leaning toward yellow may be more accessible in price.
(5) Blue diamonds
Blue diamonds form when boron is present within the crystal. Varieties include ocean blue and sky blue diamonds.
In bridal tradition, the “Something Blue” element symbolises happiness and protection, making blue diamonds a meaningful choice.
6) Pink diamonds
Pink diamonds remain highly sought after and have increased in value. Many fine stones originated from Australia’s Argyle mine, which closed in 2020 without a comparable replacement.
Their rarity and charming colour continue to captivate admirers.
(7) Yellow diamonds
Yellow colour results from nitrogen content. Compared to red, blue, or pink diamonds, yellow stones are more readily available.
Yellow diamonds that fall outside the D–Z grading scale are classified as fancy due to their stronger colour.
(8) Brown diamonds
One of the earliest diamonds used in jewellery, brown diamonds were already set in Roman rings in the 2nd century.
Though once used primarily for industrial purposes, marketing terms such as cognac and champagne brown diamonds popularised them in fine jewellery. Shades range from reddish tones to golden and purplish hues.
(9) Gray diamonds
Grey diamonds may derive their colour from inclusions or hydrogen, though the exact mechanism remains unclear.
Their cool, understated tone makes them easy to wear daily across various styles.
(10) Black diamonds
Though black in colour, black diamonds possess the distinctive adamantine lustre unique to diamonds.
When paired with clear diamonds, they create strong contrast and a gender-neutral aesthetic.
Bonus Topic: Couples Who Choose Not to Purchase an Engagement Ring
In recent years, the value of investing in experiences or other priorities has become more common, and some couples choose not to purchase an engagement ring. According to a 2022 wedding trends survey by Zexy, two primary reasons were identified:
① Jewellery-related concerns
– Does not match personal fashion
– Few occasions to wear
– Seen as worn only during the engagement period
② Financial considerations
– Concern about burdening a partner
– Budget constraints
For those who do not feel drawn to rings, there is no need to obtain one. However, some may prioritise practicality over desire.
Without focusing solely on large diamonds, design and price options broaden significantly. By stepping beyond traditional engagement ring expectations and considering the gemstone type and size that truly resonates, unexpected answers may emerge.
Jewellery That Expresses Individuality
Rather than being something worn only during the engagement period, a ring can represent a shared marriage style.
At ith, each ring is custom-made to suit the wearer. Our concierges listen carefully to each couple’s wishes and explore designs that bring excitement and joy. Every request is welcomed.
A beautiful piece of jewellery created together with a beloved partner can become like another companion — bringing comfort to daily life and courage in times of uncertainty.
With anticipation for the diamond that resonates most deeply, a visit to the ith atelier is warmly welcomed.
