Round brilliant vs princess, emerald, oval, cushion, radiant: brilliance vs size illusion and setting suitability.
Shapes trade facet geometry for optics: brilliance vs elongated finger coverage vs vintage austerity.
- Round: maximum brilliance return; calibrated standards easiest to certify.
- Oval / marquise / pear: elongations conceal carat vertically but demand bowtie scrutiny.
- Emerald / asscher: hall-of-mirrors reflections + obvious clarity—elevate purity tier.
- Princess / cushion: romantic corners; bezel or half-bezel if active lifestyle.
