Each diamond shape has it's own charm, and your selection should be based on what you find most appealing.
Trying on as many options as possible is a good start.
I made a purchase, some years ago, of oval lab diamond earrings from a big box store, and was immediately disappointed, once at home, at the lack of sparkle compared to my round lab diamond stud earrings. Lesson learned- ovals simply lack the full on sparkle of a round diamond. On the other hand, the overall look of the oval was very pretty, just not the shape for me.
Without getting technical (that is an upcoming post for another day), choosing the shape based on what innately feels right is the priority. Do you prefer sparkle? A round lab diamond will never disappoint, and radiant cut diamonds provide a ton of shine.
Are you more inclined to seek out a classic look that will never go out of style? An emerald cut might just fit the bill, as might a princess cut. Due to the ability to "see through" your emerald cut or princess cut lab diamond , focusing on clarity for this particular cut is important. Because lab diamonds offer the ability to capture a near perfect stone for far less than mined diamonds, finding a top quality emerald or princess cut lab diamond is not a challenge.
Cushion cut lab diamonds also offer a wonderful, shimmery appearance, and offer a twist to a more conservative cut. I am tempted to try this cut for a pair of earrings, but due to my penchant for blinding sparkle, for this purpose a pair of radiant cut lab diamonds might be a better option.
More unusual lab diamond cuts would be an Asscher (named for the individual who originated this cut in 1902), or a heart shaped diamond. Both have beautiful displays of light bouncing around your stone, and will be a choice that is different from the majority of those purchasing a lab diamond.
My first diamond was a marquise cut, and old is new again. After being a lagging participant in the diamond arena, a resurgence of interest in this shape has emerged, finding popularity alongside the pear shaped lab diamond.
Most important? Make your diamond search fun.
Our lab diamond engagement ring offerings include center lab diamonds in top quality, with cuts that are EXC (excellent), clarity that provides a full appreciation for your lab diamond (not the inclusion that might be seen in a lower grade), and exceptional top notch color (or lack thereof).
For additional lab diamond grading information, we will be delving into each category (cut, color, clarity, carat weight) in future posts, so stay tuned!