The cushion cut — also known as the "pillow cut" — is a romantic, soft-cornered shape that has been popular for over 200 years. It combines a square or slightly rectangular outline with rounded corners and brilliant faceting, producing exceptional fire and a warm, vintage-inspired character.
Crushed Ice vs Chunky Facets
Cushion cuts come in two main faceting styles, and the difference is significant:
- Chunky or "classic" cushion: Larger, more defined facets that produce broad, recognizable flashes of light. This is the traditional cushion look with a clear, bold sparkle pattern.
- Crushed ice cushion: Smaller, more numerous facets that create a shimmering, "crushed glass" appearance. The sparkle is more diffuse and can sometimes look less defined, particularly in lower-quality stones.
Neither style is inherently better — it is a matter of personal preference. However, many diamond buyers prefer the chunky faceting pattern for its more distinctive and lively optical performance.
Ideal Proportions
| Parameter | Ideal Range |
|---|
| Length-to-Width Ratio | 1.00 – 1.10 (square) or 1.15 – 1.25 (rectangular) |
| Table % | 58% – 68% |
| Depth % | 61% – 68% |
Exceptional Fire
Cushion cuts are known for their outstanding fire — the colored light flashes that appear as the diamond moves. The faceting geometry breaks white light into its spectral colors more effectively than many other shapes, making cushion cuts particularly captivating in candlelight and warm lighting.
Best Settings
Cushion cuts pair beautifully with halo settings, which accentuate their soft shape and add extra sparkle. They also work wonderfully in vintage-inspired settings with milgrain detailing and decorative gallery work.