Choosing a diamond can be an exciting yet daunting task, especially when it comes to understanding how flaws and inclusions affect its overall appearance.

While no diamond is truly flawless, certain shapes can hide imperfections better than others.

So, which diamond shape hides flaws and inclusions the best? Let’s dive into the details and uncover the secrets behind choosing the perfect shape to ensure your diamond looks stunning.

Understanding Diamond Flaws and Inclusions

First, let's clarify what flaws and inclusions are.

Inclusions are internal characteristics or "birthmarks" within a diamond, such as tiny crystals, fractures, or clouds.

These naturally occurring imperfections develop during the diamond's formation process.

Flaws, on the other hand, refer to external blemishes like chips or scratches on the diamond’s surface.

Both flaws and inclusions can impact a diamond’s clarity and, ultimately, its beauty.

The visibility of these imperfections largely depends on their type, size, location, and the diamond's shape.

Choosing a shape that conceals these characteristics can make a significant difference in how your diamond appears to the naked eye.

The Role of Diamond Shape in Concealing Inclusions

The shape of a diamond greatly influences how well it hides inclusions.

This is because different shapes have varying faceting patterns, light reflection properties, and overall proportions.

Some shapes are cut to maximise light dispersion and brilliance, which can make flaws less noticeable.

Other shapes, with larger facets or open tables, may highlight imperfections more clearly.

By understanding which shapes are better at masking inclusions, you can make a more informed decision and find a diamond that appears flawless, even if it’s not.

The Diamond Shapes That Hide Flaws and Inclusions the Best

Round Brilliant Cut

The round brilliant cut is often regarded as the best shape for hiding flaws and inclusions.

Its 58-facet structure is specifically designed to maximise light reflection, creating exceptional brilliance and sparkle.

This intense light performance helps to mask any internal imperfections, making them harder to see.

Additionally, because the round brilliant is the most popular diamond shape, it’s easier to find a diamond with a good balance of clarity, cut, and carat weight within your budget.

If you're considering this shape, you can check out round lab-grown diamonds for a sustainable and affordable option.

Cushion Cut

The cushion cut, known for its rounded edges and square or rectangular shape, is another excellent option for hiding inclusions.

Its faceting pattern, especially the "crushed ice" variety, scatters light in multiple directions, making it challenging to spot flaws.

The cushion cut’s softer corners also help to conceal minor inclusions, especially when compared to shapes with sharp edges.

It’s a versatile and romantic choice that balances vintage appeal with modern brilliance.

Explore our cushion lab-grown diamonds for a stunning selection of ethically crafted gems.

Oval Cut

Oval-shaped diamonds are a wonderful alternative to the classic round cut, providing a similar level of brilliance.

The elongated shape, combined with a brilliant-cut faceting pattern, means light is reflected across the stone, effectively minimising the appearance of inclusions.

However, it’s essential to watch out for the "bow-tie effect," a dark area across the centre of the diamond.

While most oval diamonds exhibit this to some extent, choosing a well-cut stone can help reduce the visibility of this phenomenon.

For an elegant and modern look, take a look at our oval lab-grown diamond collection.

Marquise Cut

The marquise cut is a striking choice for those who love unique diamond shapes.

Its pointed ends and elongated body create an illusion of a larger size, while its faceting pattern works well to hide inclusions near the centre.

However, it’s best to ensure that any flaws are positioned towards the pointed tips where they are less noticeable.

The marquise’s dramatic shape draws attention to its overall beauty rather than any minor imperfections.

Discover our selection of marquise lab-grown diamonds to find a distinctive gem that suits your style.

Pear Cut

The pear cut, with its distinctive teardrop shape, does an excellent job of concealing inclusions.

Similar to the marquise, it features a pointed end and a rounded side, providing multiple areas where flaws can be hidden.

Inclusions near the pointed tip are often less noticeable, and a well-cut pear diamond can offer a stunning combination of sparkle and uniqueness.

It’s ideal for those who prefer an unconventional shape with excellent light performance.

Browse our pear lab-grown diamond collection for a gem that captures the perfect blend of elegance and brilliance.

Diamond Shapes That Show Inclusions More Easily

Emerald Cut

The emerald cut is known for its step-cut faceting and large open table, which provide a clear view into the diamond’s interior.

As a result, inclusions are more visible in this shape, making it important to choose a higher clarity grade.

The sleek, rectangular facets may not reflect light as intensely as a brilliant cut, so any imperfections can stand out.

However, the emerald cut’s understated elegance and vintage appeal remain popular for those who prioritise clarity.

If this classic shape appeals to you, consider our range of emerald lab-grown diamonds.

Asscher Cut

Similar to the emerald cut, the Asscher shape features step-cut facets and a high degree of transparency.

Its square shape and large table mean that inclusions can be more apparent, requiring a higher clarity grade to maintain a clean appearance.

Nonetheless, the Asscher cut’s unique look and art-deco style continue to appeal to many, especially for those who appreciate a more traditional diamond shape.

Explore our Asscher lab-grown diamonds for a timeless and sophisticated choice.

Princess Cut

The princess cut’s sharp corners can make it more susceptible to visible inclusions, particularly those located near the edges.

These corners can also be weaker points in the diamond, so inclusions in this area may affect durability.

While the princess cut offers a beautiful square shape and plenty of brilliance, it’s wise to choose a diamond with a higher clarity grade or a setting that can help protect the stone.

Check out our princess lab-grown diamond collection for an option that combines modern style with timeless beauty.

Tips for Choosing a Diamond Shape with Minimal Visible Inclusions

  • Look for diamonds with inclusions located near the edges, as these can often be hidden under prongs or other setting features.
  • Consider diamonds with smaller, less noticeable inclusions, such as pinpoints, rather than larger, more apparent flaws.
  • View the diamond in different lighting conditions to see how the inclusions affect its appearance.
  • Seek the advice of a diamond expert or gemologist to help you choose the right clarity grade and shape for your needs.

Other Factors That Help Minimise the Visibility of Flaws

Diamond Cut Quality

A high-quality cut significantly enhances a diamond’s light performance, making inclusions less noticeable.

A well-cut diamond, even with a lower clarity grade, can appear more brilliant and flawless compared to a poorly cut diamond with a higher clarity grade.

Prioritising the cut grade is crucial for maximising your diamond’s visual appeal.

Colour Grade

Opting for a higher colour grade can help draw attention away from any inclusions.

Diamonds with a slight yellowish tint may make flaws more apparent, whereas a whiter diamond can appear cleaner.

Choosing a higher colour grade can, therefore, be beneficial when trying to minimise the visibility of inclusions.

Carat Weight

Larger diamonds may reveal more inclusions simply because there is a greater surface area for flaws to be seen.

If you’re looking for a larger diamond, consider shapes that hide inclusions well, such as the round brilliant or cushion cut.

For smaller diamonds, inclusions may naturally be less visible, offering more flexibility in clarity grades.

Setting Style

The right setting can make a world of difference in concealing inclusions.

For example, a halo setting surrounds the diamond with smaller stones, drawing attention away from any flaws.

A bezel setting, which encircles the diamond with a metal rim, can also help hide imperfections near the edges.

Choosing a setting that enhances the diamond's appearance while covering flaws is a smart move.

FAQs

Can inclusions affect the durability of a diamond?

Yes, inclusions can impact a diamond's durability, especially if they are located near the edges or are large enough to create structural weaknesses.

For this reason, it’s essential to choose a diamond with stable inclusions or to select a setting that offers additional protection.

Do I need a high clarity grade for a round brilliant diamond?

Not necessarily.

The round brilliant cut is excellent at hiding inclusions due to its faceting pattern and light dispersion.

You can often choose a lower clarity grade without compromising the diamond’s appearance.

What is the best setting for hiding diamond flaws?

Settings like halo or bezel are effective at hiding inclusions.

A halo setting surrounds the diamond with smaller stones, distracting from any internal flaws, while a bezel setting encircles the diamond with a metal rim, concealing inclusions near the edges.

Are there any treatments to reduce the visibility of inclusions?

Yes, treatments such as laser drilling and fracture filling can reduce the appearance of certain inclusions.

However, these treatments may affect the diamond’s overall value and should be disclosed by the seller.

It’s important to weigh the pros and cons of treated diamonds before making a purchase.

By considering these factors, you can confidently select a diamond that appears stunning and flawless, even if it isn't perfect.

Remember, a diamond's unique characteristics add to its charm, making your choice truly one of a kind.