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Lab-Grown Cushion Cut Diamonds: The Complete Guide
A cushion cut lab-grown diamond pairs a square or rectangular outline with softly rounded corners and a brilliant cut, giving a warm, pillowy glow. Those rounded corners resist chipping, so it wears well day to day, and it suits anyone drawn to a soft, vintage-leaning character. From $990 AUD for a 1ct VS1 stone, independently certified by IGI or GIA.
Overview
The Cushion diamond is famed for its soft, rounded corners and a pillow-like appearance that exudes vintage charm with a modern twist. Its design is intended to provide a warm, romantic glow while maintaining a strong, classic appeal. The cushion cut is a versatile option that adapts well to both antique-inspired and contemporary jewellery designs. This cut is celebrated for its ability to combine old-world elegance with modern brilliance, making it a timeless choice for those who appreciate subtle sophistication.
Origin and development
The cushion cut has its origins in the 19th century, where it was a favourite among antique jewellery makers for its distinctive, soft-edged appearance. Over time, the cut was refined by modern cutting techniques to enhance its sparkle while preserving its original charm. Today, the cushion diamond is celebrated for its ability to evoke a sense of history and romance while fitting seamlessly into contemporary styles, making it a bridge between past and present.
How the cushion cut is shaped
The cushion cut is defined by its square or rectangular outline with smoothly rounded corners and a complex faceting pattern that provides a blend of brilliance and subtle shadow play. The gentle curves create an inviting, soft silhouette that is both comforting and elegant. The design strikes a balance between a vintage aesthetic and contemporary clarity, resulting in a diamond that feels both nostalgic and modern. Its graceful form makes it ideal for romantic settings and delicate, timeless jewellery designs.
Why choose a cushion cut
Cushion-cut diamonds are known for their delicate balance of brilliance and gentle sparkle. The larger, open facets allow light to diffuse softly throughout the stone, creating a warm and inviting luminescence. Its rounded edges help to soften the overall appearance, reducing the emphasis on sharp angles while enhancing its vintage appeal. This cut is particularly effective in concealing minor imperfections, offering a harmonious blend of beauty and practicality that resonates with both traditional and modern sensibilities.
What to look for when buying
Prioritise cut quality first: it drives the light return that makes the stone come alive. We screen proportions, polish and symmetry before a stone is ever shortlisted. Every CRTD stone is independently certified by IGI or GIA at a VS1 minimum clarity.
Price
Lab-grown cushion cut diamonds at CRTD start at $990 AUD for a one carat stone, with AU-inclusive pricing, the number you see is the number you pay. Larger carats and higher clarity grades are priced transparently across the range.
Choosing well
The detail to settle first is facet style, because cushions come in two distinct looks: chunky, with larger open facets and bold flashes of light, and crushed-ice, with smaller facets that scatter light into a finer shimmer. They read very differently in person, so decide which character you want before you start comparing stones. A length-to-width ratio between 1.00 and 1.20 then sets a near-square or gently elongated outline.
Sourced to your brief
We do not hold a wall of inventory. Tell us your brief and our atelier shortlists certified cushion cut stones to match, each with full IGI or GIA paperwork. See how we source.
Common questions
What length-to-width ratio is best for a cushion cut diamond?
A length-to-width ratio of 1.00 to 1.20 covers the most balanced cushion outlines. Around 1.00 to 1.05 reads as a soft, near-square cushion, while 1.10 to 1.20 gives a gently elongated rectangular shape. The choice is purely aesthetic, so pick the proportion that suits your setting and the look you prefer.
Is a cushion cut diamond good for everyday wear?
Yes. A cushion cut's gently rounded corners remove the vulnerable sharp points found on some squared shapes, which helps it resist chipping during daily wear such as on an engagement ring. As with any diamond, a secure setting and routine care offer the best protection. Every CRTD stone is independently certified at a VS1 minimum clarity.
What should I look at when comparing cushion cut diamonds?
Look at facet style first, as it shapes the whole character. Chunky faceting gives larger, open flashes of light, while crushed-ice faceting scatters into a finer shimmer. Then consider length-to-width ratio, ideally between 1.00 and 1.20. The brilliant cut delivers the warm, pillowy glow this shape is known for. CRTD cushions start from $990 AUD for a 1ct VS1 stone.