One of the most crucial choices when picking the ideal diamond for an engagement ring is the diamond's shape. The princess cut and the cushion cut are two of the most popular shapes. Both provide classic elegance, but they differ significantly — and understanding those differences could be the key to making the right choice.

This complete guide compares the princess cut and cushion cut across sparkle, size, price, and style — so whether you're searching for a princess diamond ring or a cushion engagement ring in the UK, you'll have everything you need to decide with confidence.

What is a Princess-Cut Diamond?

A princess-cut diamond is a contemporary square-shaped gem with brilliant faceting and sharp, unclipped corners. Renowned for its dynamic modern style and clean geometric lines, it is one of the most popular choices for engagement rings — maximising sparkle and brilliance in a way that rivals even the classic round brilliant cut.

What is a Cushion-Cut Diamond?

Often called a "pillow cut," the cushion-cut diamond combines a square or rectangular shape with softly rounded corners. This timeless cut has been popular for centuries and carries a nostalgic, romantic appeal that sets it apart from more contemporary shapes.

Rather than the sharp brilliance of a princess cut, cushion-cut diamonds are distinguished by their larger facets and soft rounded edges — producing a warmer, more romantic glow that many describe as vintage and deeply elegant.

Sparkle: Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut

Which Diamond Shape Looks Bigger?

The princess cut is deeper and more compact — its weight is distributed into the depth of the stone, meaning it can appear slightly smaller face-up compared to other shapes at the same carat weight.

The cushion cut typically has a greater surface area face-up. Its rounded corners and larger facets give the impression of a bigger diamond — making it a smart choice for those who want maximum visual impact without increasing carat weight.

Price Comparison: Princess Cut vs Cushion Cut

Princess cut diamonds are typically more affordable. The cutting process uses more of the rough diamond material, reducing waste — and lower production cost is often passed on to the buyer.

Cushion cut diamonds tend to be priced slightly higher. Their larger facets and association with vintage craftsmanship, combined with the use of larger rough diamond pieces in production, contribute to a premium cost.

Ultimately, both cuts are available across a wide price range depending on carat, colour, clarity, and cut quality. Read our Complete 4Cs Buying Guide to understand how to get the best value.

Which Diamond Shape is Right for You?

Popular Settings for Each Cut

Princess Cut Settings

The clean geometry of a princess cut pairs beautifully with solitaire settings that let the stone take centre stage, halo settings that amplify brilliance, and tension settings for a sleek, architectural look.

Cushion Cut Settings

The soft lines of a cushion cut complement halo settings that enhance the stone's size, vintage-inspired settings with milgrain or floral detailing, and classic four-prong settings that highlight the rounded corners.