20 Unique Diamond Cuts You’ve Probably Never Heard Of

When you think of a diamond, a specific image probably comes to mind: a brilliant, sparkling round stone. But beyond that familiar image lies a fascinating world of unique diamond cuts. In this article, we’re going to walk through 20 rare and unique diamond cuts that don’t often make it to mainstream jewelry counters.

You’ll learn how certain antique cuts were shaped by hand centuries ago, which modern patented cuts have redefined brilliance, and how technology today makes it possible to create custom shapes in lab-grown diamonds. We’ll also look at the stories, history, and artistry behind these unconventional designs, and why they continue to captivate collectors, jewelers, and anyone who wants their jewelry to stand out.

What are Unique Diamond Cuts?

A unique diamond cut isn’t the kind of stone you’ll see in every jewelry shop window. These are the diamonds that feel different, whether it’s because of their unusual shape, the way their facets catch the light, or the history they carry.

They’re the kind of gems made for people who don’t just want sparkle, but a story. In the past, many of these rare cuts were handcrafted, often for royalty or collectors, which is why surviving pieces are highly valued today. But times have changed. With today’s technology, cutters can shape lab-grown diamonds into almost anything you can imagine. From reviving forgotten antique cuts to creating entirely new designs, custom cutting is no longer just for the elite; it’s now within reach for anyone who wants their diamond to be as individual as they are.

From Antique to Avant-Garde: These are the Rarest & Unique Diamond Cuts

You’ve seen the classic brilliant cut, but what about the rest of the family? Every diamond cut has its own unique personality, born from a blend of history, technology, and pure artistry. Think less “gemstone” and more “character.” From the romantic glow of a stone cut by hand to the breathtaking precision of a modern masterpiece, these cuts tell a story all their own.

Here’s a look at some of the most fascinating diamond cuts, the ones you won’t see every day, each with a history that makes it more than just a piece of jewelry.

Antique & Vintage Cuts:-

These cuts were born in a different era, often shaped by hand without the aid of modern technology. They offer a warmth and character that modern cuts lack, making them treasured artifacts of jewelry history.

Portuguese Cut Diamond

The Portuguese cut is a dazzling throwback to old-world craftsmanship. With its unusually high number of facets (sometimes more than 160), it creates a kaleidoscope of light within the stone. The small table and tall crown give it a deep, mirror-like brilliance that feels less like sparkle and more like liquid light. Because it requires so much rough diamond to achieve, it’s incredibly rare today, a true treasure for collectors who seek unique antique diamond cuts with soul.

Old Mine Cut Diamond

Think of grand ballrooms lit by candlelight, that’s where the Old Mine cut shines. Born in the 18th and 19th centuries, this cushion-shaped diamond, characterized by a high crown, deep pavilion, and open culet, was crafted entirely by hand. Its chunky facets and soft glow were designed for gaslight and candlelight, not spotlights. Each stone feels a little imperfect, a little asymmetrical, but that’s exactly what makes it romantic. Owning one means holding a genuine piece of history.

Old European Cut Diamond

If the Old Mine was the ancestor, the Old European is the great-grandfather of today’s round brilliant. Popular in the late 19th to early 20th century, this cut features a rounder outline with a small table, high crown, and visible culet. Its broad, chunky facets flash with dramatic contrast, creating a moody, almost vintage fire. Collectors love the Old European because it bridges eras, antique in character but closer to the modern sparkle we know today.

Rose Cut Diamond

First appearing in the 16th century, the Rose cut is instantly recognizable for its flat bottom and domed top, covered in triangular facets. It doesn’t glitter like a brilliant cut — instead, it glows softly, like moonlight on water. This subtle shimmer has made it a favorite for designers who love understated, vintage-inspired jewelry. If you’re looking for a rare diamond cut that whispers rather than shouts, the Rose cut is timeless.

Sugarloaf Cut Diamond

Before sugar came in packets, it was sold in tall, cone-shaped loaves. Jewelers borrowed that everyday image for this cut, a domed, step-cut diamond that looks more like a sculpture than a sparkle machine. The Sugarloaf cut is a rare step-cut with a unique, pointed top. You’ll often find these cuts in Art Deco pieces, where their geometric, architectural lines fit right into the period’s love for sharp, clean design.

Mogul Cut Diamond

Mogul cut diamond, also known as Mughal, is one of the most ancient diamond cuts, born from a time when the goal was to keep as much of the original rough stone as possible. It’s an altered rose cut, often appearing like a thick, domed, and almost egg-shaped gem with random facets. The most famous example is the legendary Koh-i-Noor, which was cut in the Mughal style. This cut is more about the raw, natural beauty of the stone than its fiery brilliance, and holding one is like holding a piece of forgotten history.

Portrait Cut Diamond

The Portrait cut is not about fire at all; it’s about transparency. Originating in India, this ultra-thin, flat diamond slice was used as a “window” over miniature portraits or mementos. Its large open table and minimal facets demand exceptional clarity, since there’s nowhere to hide flaws. Often bezel-set for protection, a Portrait cut diamond feels like a piece of jewelry and art history merged, elegant, discreet, and deeply personal.

Jubilee Cut Diamond

Created in 1887 to celebrate Queen Victoria’s Golden Jubilee, the Jubilee cut is a cushion-shaped diamond with extra facets to boost brilliance. It combines the charm of antique shapes with sparkle that rivals modern cuts. Because of its commemorative origins, it’s incredibly rare and meaningful, appealing to collectors of historic diamond cuts.

Modern & Patented Cuts:-

These contemporary designs push the boundaries of diamond cutting, often protected by patents or trademarks to ensure their exclusivity and unique sparkle.

Royal Asscher Cut Diamond

The Royal Asscher cut has a total of 78 diamond facets, compared to 58 facets the original Asscher cut had. In 1902, the Asscher family of Holland created this cut, and it was the world’s first patented diamond cut. It’s a series of concentric squares with cropped corners, designed to create a “hall of mirrors” effect, a visual trick that gives it a geometric, hypnotic depth. The patent has expired, but it is still a beloved cut. The Asscher Cut’s clean, Art Deco lines are a timeless statement.

Ashoka Cut Diamond

Named after the legendary Indian emperor, this cut can only be made from a select few rough diamonds, a rarity that keeps it out of most display cases. It’s an elongated cushion shape with a high crown and 62 facets that create an elongated rectangular shape, making it appear up to 30% larger than an emerald cut of the same carat weight. It is known for its intense fire, a truly brilliant patented design. The Ashoka Cut can often be seen adorning the fingers of Hollywood stars.

Eighty-Eight Cut Diamond

In many Asian cultures, the number eight is a symbol of good fortune. This patented design carries 88 facets, each cut for maximum light play. The result? A diamond that flickers like a kaleidoscope, a captivating sight. The cut is often found in unique engagement rings and is sought after for its symbolic meaning as much as its stunning brilliance.

Crisscut Diamond

At first glance, it looks like a traditional emerald cut, but a closer look reveals a world of difference. The Crisscut has 77 triangular and trapezoidal facets arranged in a stunning crisscross pattern. This unique faceting pattern gives the diamond a striking brilliance and fire that a classic step-cut can’t match. This patented cut gives the diamond an almost kaleidoscopic effect.

Princess Plus Cut Diamond

The Princess cut is a popular choice for its modern, clean lines and brilliant sparkle. But a Princess Plus is a step up. This patented cut adds 40 more facets to the traditional Princess, bringing the total to 101. The result is a diamond with even more surface area and a breathtaking brilliance that seems to draw light from every direction. It’s a modern twist on a classic, perfect for someone who loves the princess cut but wants something truly special.

Lily Cut Diamond

As the name suggests, this is a beautiful patented cut that resembles a delicate lily flower with four petals. With 77 meticulously polished facets, the Lily cut is a masterpiece of modern cutting technology. It’s often reserved for high-end jewelry designers, and you might even find it exclusively in certain luxury collections. Its gentle, curving lines and brilliant sparkle make it a romantic choice for a ring or pendant.

Artistic & Unconventional Cuts:-

These cuts are less about conforming to a standard and more about creating a unique visual effect.

Shield Cut Diamond

As the name suggests, this diamond is shaped like a shield, with a wide top and a pointed bottom. Its shape is often used as a side stone to flank a larger center diamond, but it can also hold its own as a center stone for a modern, bold ring. The design is a powerful statement, often used to symbolize protection or strength.

Pixel Emerald Cut Diamond

A truly modern design, the Pixel cut is a geometric marvel. It features a mosaic of tiny, rectangular, and square facets arranged to create a pixelated effect. This patented cut looks like a digital work of art, with light dancing across its surface in a futuristic, fragmented sparkle. It is the perfect choice for a minimalist yet striking piece.

Briolette Cut Diamond

A vintage cut that feels modern, the Briolette is a three-dimensional drop shape, a full teardrop, not a half. It has no girdle or table; instead, it is faceted all around its surface, making it look like a shimmering, spinning raindrop. Because there are no flat surfaces to set, it is often drilled through and suspended, allowing it to move freely and catch the light from every angle.

Kite Cut Diamond

This diamond shape has four sides, with two long and two short, meeting at a point at the top and bottom, creating a geometric kite shape. It’s often used as an accent stone or in a pave setting to create a shield-like effect. As a center stone, its clean, angular lines make it a favorite for those who want a minimalist, contemporary feel.

Bullet Cut Diamond

Resembling the sleek, elongated shape of an unshot bullet, this diamond is a slim, elegant cut with a pointed end. It’s rarely used as a center stone but is prized for its ability to act as a side stone, creating a smooth transition from a central gem to the band. With its clean lines, it works beautifully with emerald cuts or other step-cut diamonds.

Bead Cut Diamond

This is more of a shape than a traditional cut, as it is faceted on all sides and often drilled through to be used in strands for necklaces and bracelets. Diamond beads, often seen in a variety of colors from black to champagne, are a departure from traditional jewelry. The diamond’s facets create a subtle, all-over shimmer rather than a single focal point, perfect for a bohemian or high-fashion look.

What Makes These Diamond Cuts So Unique?

Diamond Cut	Origin / History	Why It’s Unique
Rose Cut	Born in 16th-century Europe during the Renaissance	Designed for candlelit evenings; soft, romantic glow instead of sharp sparkle; beloved in Georgian & Victorian jewelry.
Mogul Cut	Crafted by Indian artisans in the Mughal courts (16th–19th century)	Thick, domed style preserved carat weight; many set into ceremonial jewels and swords; prized by emperors for grandeur.
Old Mine Cut	18th–19th century Brazil and India diamond mines	Predecessor of cushion cut; hand-crafted with chunky facets; reflects the artistry of cutters before precision machines.
Old European Cut	Bridge between candlelight romance and modern sparkle; a rounder outline created dramatic flashes of light.	Inspired by cone-shaped sugar loaves, often found in sapphires/emeralds, admired for their architectural, sculptural look.
Portuguese Cut	Linked to 18th-century Portugal; revived in Art Deco jewelry	Up to 160 facets; sacrificed much rough, making it rare; known for “liquid light” brilliance reserved for wealthy patrons.
Portrait Cut	Originated in India, 1600s	Flat diamond slices used as “windows” over miniature paintings or mementos; prized for clarity and storytelling, not fire.
Sugarloaf Cut	Used in Mughal and later Art Deco pieces	Reinvented emerald cut with 77 facets in a crisscross pattern; gives step-cut stones more life and fire.
Jubilee Cut	Created in 1897 for Queen Victoria’s Diamond Jubilee	Cushion shape with extra facets; symbol of prestige and celebration; extremely rare since never mass-produced.
Royal Asscher Cut	Patented in 1902 by Asscher brothers, Amsterdam	Famous for “hall of mirrors” depth; became iconic after cutting the Cullinan diamond; hallmark of European cutting.
Ashoka Cut	Inspired by an ancient 41.37 ct diamond of Emperor Ashoka (India)	Revived as a patented cut; elongated cushion shape appears up to 30% larger; blends heritage with modern brilliance.
Eighty-Eight Cut	Modern patented design influenced by Asian numerology	88 facets + octagonal shape; number 8 symbolizes prosperity and luck; merges brilliance with cultural symbolism.
Crisscut	Faceting mimics pixelated digital art; it appeals to tech-inspired, futuristic jewelry lovers.	Modern branded variation of the Princess cut
Princess Plus Cut	Patented in the 1990s by Christopher Slowinski	Adds 40 extra facets (total 101); created for maximum brilliance; popular in bridal jewelry.
Lily Cut	Modern patented design, early 2000s	Shaped like a lily flower with 77 facets, it is marketed for romance and luxury bridal collections.
Shield Cut	Contemporary adaptation of heraldic shields	Symbolizes strength and protection; used in bespoke designs and bold modern rings.
Pixel Emerald Cut	21st-century innovation	In the late 1800s, with the rise of electricity
Briolette Cut	Among the oldest cuts, popularized in the 14th century Europe	Fully faceted teardrop shape; worn as pendants by queens (Marie Antoinette loved them); designed to sparkle while moving.
Kite Cut	Modern geometric cut	Four-sided diamond resembling a kite; favored by avant-garde designers; adds angular flair in contemporary settings.
Bullet Cut	Among the oldest cuts, popularized in the 14th century in Europe	Sleek, elongated bullet shape; often paired with emerald cuts; reflects modernist architecture of the era.
Bead Cut	Antique Indian & Middle Eastern jewelry	Originated in the Art Deco era (20th century)

Why Most People Only Know a Few Diamond Cuts?

• Mass Production and the Magic of Sparkle

The most popular cuts, like the round brilliant cut diamonds, became so beloved because they’re a marvel of efficiency. Diamond cutters designed them to get the most sparkle and weight out of a typical rough stone, which means less waste. This efficiency makes them more accessible and appealing to the masses. These diamonds can be produced on a large scale, making them the most readily available and a natural first choice for many. Unique cuts, on the other hand, often require a specific rough diamond shape or more highly skilled, time-consuming hand-crafting.

• People follow what’s familiar and socially validated

For nearly a century, advertising has shaped our idea of the perfect diamond. Slogans like “A Diamond is Forever” were almost always paired with a classic round solitaire, cementing its place in our hearts. This media influence creates a powerful association between that specific cut and a timeless symbol of love. When we see classic cuts everywhere, on celebrities, in movies, and on our friends, they feel like the “right” choice. It’s a comfortable, socially validated path that makes a significant purchase feel less risky. Stepping into the world of unique cuts requires a little more confidence and a desire to forge your own path.

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