When shopping for a wedding ring, there are four things to keep in mind. In the diamond industry, these are known at the “4Cs” and they stand for colour, clarity, carat, and cut. While most people tend to focus on carat, colour, and clarity, cut is just as important—if not more so! The cut of a diamond plays a big role in how the other three characteristics are showcased. If you’re new to the word of diamond shopping, here’s a look at what’s currently trending in terms of that all-important fourth “C”.

Oval Cut

An oval diamond is a classic but unique twist on a traditional round cut. Oval diamonds have gained popularity recently after being seen on the fingers of high profile celebrities such as Serena Williams, Blake Lively, and Kirsten Dunst. Oval diamonds often appear larger than round cuts since they have a bigger surface area. Choosing an oval cut means you can get a glamorous diamond with the wow-factor of a high carat weight for a much more budget-friendly price.

Pear Shaped

A pear-shaped diamond is similar to an oval in that the surface area of the cut makes it appear larger than it is. Pear-shaped diamonds are a vintage trend making a comeback among classic brides who love that mid-century aesthetic. A bride who is looking for something a little different will find herself gravitating toward the asymmetry of a pear-shaped stone.

Round Brilliant Cut

Round brilliant cuts are the most traditional and never wane in popularity. That being said, they are even more trendy at the moment since their minimalist aesthetic captures much of the current style ethos. Round brilliant cuts are known for their extreme sparkle because, with 58 facets, they reflect more light than just about any other cut. However, this does make them some of the most expensive diamonds on the market since much of the original stone is lost in the cutting process.

If you’re looking for a diamond that is right on trend but still maintains a classic timelessness, consider an oval, pear, or round brilliant cut. What cut of diamond is your favourite?