Round vs. Cushion Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Rings

Cushion cut diamonds are a contemporary shape known for their “pillow-like” square shape with soft edges. It combines the curves of a Round Brilliant with the square silhouette of a Princess cut diamond for a look that’s entirely its own. Cushion cut diamonds are an updated take on the historic Old Mine cut, which gives this contemporary diamond shape a vintage look and unique shine.

No other diamond shape surpasses the popularity or brilliance of a Round Brilliant cut diamond. This is the most sought-after diamond shape in the world with a perfectly round silhouette that most people associate with diamonds. The Round Brilliant is a true classic, with 57 angular facets arranged to create ideal brilliance.

There are several key differences between a Cushion and Round cut diamond. These shapes are often compared thanks to their curves and classic elegance. It can even be hard to tell the difference between the two in certain settings, at first glance, such as a 4 prong setting.

When comparing a Round diamond vs a Cushion cut diamond, there are a few things to note. Both shapes feature brilliant cut facets, but that may be the biggest thing they have in common. Round Brilliant cut diamonds are cut for optimal brilliance and have unrivaled shine from all angles. Cushion cut diamonds can have different faceting arrangements but they create a “crushed ice” look when reflecting light.

Round Brilliant cut diamonds also have a different shape. They are a perfect circle whereas Cushion cut diamonds have rounded corners but a squarer shape. Cushion cut diamonds have a larger table than Round Brilliant cut diamonds with a fuller bottom. This means they will appear slightly smaller than Round Brilliant cut diamonds of the same carat weight.

Both shapes will look stunning for a lab-grown diamond engagement ring. Round Brilliant cut diamonds are considered a truly classic shape, suitable for any style, but especially traditional tastes. Cushion cut diamonds are considered a modern shape, chosen by those who prefer a modern or vintage-inspired ring that deviates from tradition.

It’s easy to compare Cushion cut vs Round Brilliant cut shine, as they reflect light so differently. Round Brilliant cut diamonds will have more brilliance overall, as they are considered to have the most brilliance of any diamond. Cushion cut diamonds, however, are also known for their unique and vivid shine, but it will be more subtle.

As these two shapes reflect light in their own way, you may find yourself drawn to one over the other, not simply just the shape with the most brilliance.

Choosing between a Round Brilliant and a Cushion cut comes down to personal preference rather than one shape being objectively better.  

Choose a Round Brilliant if you love:

• Maximum sparkle and brilliance
• A timeless, classic look
• A shape that complements virtually every setting
• Crisp, symmetrical proportions  

Choose a Cushion cut if you prefer:  

• Soft, pillow-like corners
• Vintage-inspired style
• Larger facets with beautiful flashes of light
• A romantic silhouette with modern appeal  

Both shapes pair beautifully with solitaire, hidden halo, three stone, and pavé engagement ring settings, making either an exceptional choice for everyday wear.

Another key difference between Cushion cut vs Round cut diamonds is the price. Round Brilliant cut diamonds will cost more than Cushion cut diamonds of the same carat weight and quality. Round Brilliant cut diamonds are considered the most expensive diamond shape, due to their unmatched demand and their diamond cut.

If budget is a concern, Cushion cut diamonds may be better for you. Cushion cut diamonds tend to cost less than more traditional diamond shapes as they don’t have the same demand.

That being said, VRAI offers competitive diamond prices. We offer high-quality lab-grown Round Brilliant cut diamonds at a range of prices, making this shape more accessible.

Cushion cut diamonds tend to appear smaller than a Round Brilliant cut diamond of the same carat weight. Cushion cut diamonds have a fuller bottom half than Round Brilliant cut diamonds, so from the top down Round Brilliants will appear larger. Round Brilliant cut diamonds look truest to their carat weight and their optimal brilliance also highlights their size.

The engagement ring setting you choose can enhance the size of your diamond, no matter the shape or carat weight.

If you love the Cushion cut diamond but prefer a diamond shape that maximizes its carat weight, consider Elongated Cushion cut diamonds.

Round Brilliant diamond cut engagement rings are the ideal choice for a truly traditional and timeless ring. If you’re looking for brilliance and size above anything else, then a Round engagement ring will be a better fit for you than a Cushion cut engagement ring.

There’s a reason Round Brilliant cut diamonds are the most beloved diamond shape, with maximum fire and scintillation and an elegant appearance that will never go out of style.

However, due to their price point, Round Brilliant cut engagement rings are best for those who have a bigger budget. When choosing a Round engagement ring, prioritize cut quality over the other 4Cs to ensure your diamond has its renowned brilliance.

Cushion cut diamond engagement rings are the perfect choice for those who prefer a vintage-inspired or unique engagement ring. Cushion cut diamonds have the most cut varieties of any modern shape and create a glittery, distinct shine.

This is a wonderful choice if you prefer a ring that has an heirloom feel or you’re on a tighter budget. Cushion cut diamonds are also perfect for those who live an active lifestyle, thanks to their soft, durable corners.

When choosing a Cushion engagement ring, prioritize cut and carat weight to ensure peak light reflection and size.

2 carat Round Brilliant rings are ideal for true diamond lovers who want their ring to make a statement with undeniable brilliance few can ignore.

2 carat Cushion cut diamond rings are best for those who want to emphasize the size and shine of Cushion cut diamonds. Cushion cuts will stand out beautifully at this carat weight but are still easy to wear with anything.

Halo settings add instant vintage elegance, brilliance, and size to any diamond. When it comes to Cushion vs Round Halo engagement rings, both shapes will stun in this setting. However, Halo settings are ideal for Cushion cut diamonds because they highlight their heirloom feel while adding size.

Gold engagement rings are timeless and durable, but the colored gold you choose will impact the appearance of your ring.

Yellow gold is the most classic metal color, so it’s no surprise that it pairs beautifully with a Round Brilliant cut diamond.

White gold is another timeless metal color. It enhances the linear look of a Cushion and adds a sleek appearance to a Round Brilliant.

Rose gold is a romantic and unique metal color that will add a vintage feel to any diamond shape, so it will enhance those qualities in a Cushion cut diamond.

Both Round Brilliant and Cushion cut diamonds work beautifully across many engagement ring styles, though each creates a slightly different aesthetic.  

A Round Brilliant diamond shines in classic solitaire settings, where its exceptional brilliance takes center stage. It also pairs beautifully with hidden halo, cathedral, and pavé settings for additional sparkle.  

Cushion cut diamonds complement vintage-inspired designs while looking equally striking in modern solitaires, halos, and three stone engagement rings. Their softly rounded corners create a balanced silhouette that feels both timeless and contemporary.

Whether you choose a Round Brilliant or Cushion cut engagement ring, both diamond shapes offer timeless beauty and exceptional versatility. The best choice is the one that reflects your personal style and how you want your ring to feel every time you wear it.  

Explore VRAI's collection of Cushion cut and Round engagement rings featuring VRAI created diamonds, each crafted with precision and created with zero emissions to celebrate your love story for years to come.  

Discover our vast selection of engagement ring settings to perfectly pair with your lab diamond, whether it's a Round Brilliant cut diamond or a Cushion cut diamond.