Cut and Shape is the only one of the 4 Cs that is in human hands. The way that the diamond is shaped and cut is what gives it its brilliance fire and unique shape. Cutters must be skilled in cutting and polishing the diamond facets to allow the maximum amount of light to enter through its top and be reflected and dispersed back through its top.

A Diamond can be fashioned into just about any shape, however there are a group of fancy shapes that have become mainstays in the fashion world. These shapes and cutting styles have been expertly honed and styled to exude maximum beauty and brilliance.
Any of the fancy shapes are a good choice for a woman who likes a classic look but wants something a little less traditional than the round brilliant.

The Elegance and Brilliance of a well cut Pear Shape, Marquise or Oval is breathtaking.
The Emerald and Asscher Cut is cut in a step cut cutting style. This minimizes the dazzle and doesn't hide flaws as well but on the other hand its simple elegance and cool icy look is captivating.

For the romantic, however, nothing could be more perfect than a heart shape, signifying love and romance. This cut is simply a pear shape with a cleft at the top.

The princess cut, a square with many sparkling facets that looks best when it's square. The princess is cut to a distinctive crisscross of facets. The Radiant on the other hand does not have a well defined facet grid and exudes a dazzling freeform brilliance. It is also cut into an octagon shape and is popular both as a square and rectangle.

When searching for a fancy cut diamond (anything other than round) it's important to note the length to width ratio.