Cushion Diamond

The cushion cut has roots dating back over 200 years, making it one of the oldest diamond shapes still in widespread use. Originally known as the 'old mine cut,' the modern cushion has been re-engineered with updated faceting patterns that dramatically improve light performance while retaining the romantic, soft-edged aesthetic that defined antique diamonds. There are two main types of cushion cuts that buyers should understand. The 'chunky' or 'crushed ice' distinction refers to the facet pattern visible when viewing the stone face-up. Chunky cushions display broad, distinct flashes of light similar to a round brilliant, while crushed ice cushions show a more scattered, almost glittery sparkle pattern. Neither is objectively better—it's a matter of personal preference—but buyers should know which type they're getting before purchasing. From a trade perspective, cushion cuts are among the most efficient shapes to cut from rough, retaining 60-65% of the original crystal weight compared to just 40-50% for round brilliants. This efficiency, combined with lower consumer demand relative to rounds, means cushion cuts typically price 25-35% below comparable round brilliants. The cushion's deep pavilion does mean it carries more weight below the girdle, so a 1-carat cushion will appear slightly smaller face-up than a 1-carat round—something jewelers should communicate to clients upfront.