Elongated Cushion Cut Diamonds Guide

Elongated cushion-cut diamonds are a variation of the classic cushion cut, which has rounded corners to give a ‘cushion’ or pillow-like appearance. As the name suggests, the extended length-to-width ratio gives an elongated appearance, which is considered romantic and flattering to the finger.

Despite being vintage-inspired, the elongation is a modern trend, and hence the design has increased in popularity in recent years. 

Brian Gavin Diamond’s collection features a stunning selection of elongated cushion-cut diamonds, featuring Brian Gavin’s exceptional craftsmanship for maximized brilliance and elegance. 

In this guide, we’ll help you understand if elongated cushion cut diamonds are suitable for you and leave you with the knowledge to make an informed purchase. 

What Is an Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond?

An Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond takes the classic cushion cut shape and extends it to a length-to-width ratio of 1.15 or higher. This more rectangular outline still features the cushion-like corners but creates the illusion of a slimming effect to both the ring and finger. 

Many people consider the elongation to create a sense of flow between the finger and the jewelry. As a result, it's a favorite for those looking for a sense of individuality without going too far. 

Like a regular cushion cut diamond, there should be a curving crown anatomy with a 30-degree angle from the girdle surface. 

If you love the concept of a classic, soft elegance but with a slimming effect, then this may well be the diamond for you. 

Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond Ratios

Pros and Cons of Elongated Cushion Cut Diamonds

Pros:

• Slimming effect: Elongated diamonds have a large finger coverage, creating an elongated and slimmer finger appearance. 

• Size value: Generally, if you want a larger diamond, you need to increase carat weight and therefore your budget. But Elongated Cushion Diamonds take the carat weight and spread it, rather than increase it. Thus, you can get a larger-looking stone for a lower price point.

• Romantic Style: With soft, rounded corners, a vintage, romantic charm is seen. 

• Brilliance and fire: The well-cut corners of cushion diamonds provide a signature sparkle and a wonderful ability to reflect colored light (known as ‘fire’).

• Versatility: Elongated cushion cut diamonds pair wonderfully with settings such as solitaires, halos, and vintage-inspired mountings. 

Cons: 

• Less brilliance than rounds: While offering a lovely sparkle, it is considered less brilliant than that of the popular round brilliant diamond. 

• Limited availability: The elongated cushion cut diamond shape is rarer than traditional versions, so you may face difficulty in finding stock or one within your budget.

• ‘Bow-tie’ effect: If your diamond is not cut by an experienced and reputable seller, such as Brian Gavin, you may see a dark area across the center known as the ‘bow-tie’ effect. 

How to Choose the Best Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond

Prioritizing Your Budget

Budget is almost always a defining factor. So, we recommend prioritizing your budget on cut quality. This is the quality that affects sparkle brilliance the most. You can save some money here too by knowing that excellent and ideal quality cut diamonds are the same with the naked eye. 

You can also save some money by going for the less expensive lab-created diamond option. However, if your heart is set on a real, naturally formed diamond, then be prepared to pay a higher price tag. 

Other Considerations

You should also consider the color and clarity of the cushion-cut diamond you’re considering. To avoid visible flaws, you should go for a VS1 or better ‘clarity’. These will be eye-clean.

Color is often down to personal preference, as some people prefer a slightly warmer tone. 

• J-G is near colorless

• F-E colorless

• D white ‘colorless’.

Finally, elongated cushion-cut diamonds have around 58 facets. The type of facet will affect the sparkle. Brilliant facets will provide the clearest sparkle, while crushed ice facets give a shimmering, contemporary look. 

Length-to-width Ratio

The length-to-width ratio of an elongated cushion cut diamond is also important. 

• A classic elongated shape should have a ratio of between 1.15 and 1.20.

• For a more unique, slimmer look, then go for between 1.06 and 1.10.

• For a very slim appearance, go for anything above 1.5. 

Carat is about weight, not necessarily size. So be sure to look for the millimeter size to identify how large it will be on your finger, not carat weight. 

In Cushion-cut diamonds, there are often 58 facets (the same as a round brilliant), which are larger and more open than radiant cut diamonds. They bend in a kite shape, but will vary with each cushion cut style. It's important to consider the facets of your shortlisted diamonds, as they will affect how light reflects. 

Best Settings for Elongated Cushion Cut Diamonds

Elongated cushion-cut diamonds are versatile enough to pair with a variety of settings, offering a wide range of choices to suit different personalities:

• Six-prong settings: Maximum protection, with a soft, elongated secure shape. Ideal for daily wear. 

• Halo setting: Maximized brilliance, with gentle curves and the illusion of a larger stone. 

• Solitaire setting: The classic choice. It highlights the stone’s elongation, without distraction. 

• Bezel setting: The diamond is encircled with a rim of metal, for security and a modern touch. 

FAQs for Elongated Cushion Cut Diamonds 

What Is The Ideal Length-To-Width Ratio For An Elongated Cushion Cut Diamond?

Ideally, the length-to-width ratio for an elongated cushion diamond is 1.51:1 to 1.30:1. This gives a balanced, rectangular shape with the subtle illusion of a naturally slimmer finger. 

Do Elongated Cushion Cuts Look Bigger Than Square Cushions?

Yes. Even with the same carat weight, the elongated shape sees the weight spread over more finger coverage. This gives the illusion of increased size. 

What’s The Difference Between Crushed Ice And A Brilliant Cushion Cut?

Brilliant cushion cut diamonds have clear, larger facets with bold flashes of light (much like a round brilliant. Whereas crushed ice cushion cuts feature many smaller, unusual facets, for a shimmering effect (hence the crushed ice name). The crushed ice effect reduces light flashes, but hides inclusions.

Does An Elongated Cushion Cut Show Color More Than Other Shapes?

Yes. You’ll see more body color than many other diamonds, because the larger facets and deeper pavilion display more color. For this reason, many buyers look for a high, white color grade.