The modern square.
The princess cut is the most popular fancy-shaped diamond in the world and the second most popular shape overall after the round brilliant. Created in 1980 by Betzalel Ambar and Israel Itzkowitz, this 76-facet square design combines the brilliance of a round with the bold geometry of a square silhouette.
Every princess cut diamond in our collection is GIA, HRD or IGI certified and individually selected for exceptional light performance. With its sharp, uncut corners and inverted-pyramid structure, the princess cut retains more rough diamond weight during cutting — making it a brilliant choice for those who want maximum sparkle at a more accessible price.
Facets
MOST Popular
Created
Silhouette
What makes it special
Key Characteristics
Why the princess cut has become the go-to choice for modern diamond buyers worldwide.
Exceptional Brilliance
76 facets create an intense light return rivalling the round brilliant — delivering striking brilliance from a distinctly modern square outline.
Contemporary Geometry
Clean, sharp lines and defined corners give the princess cut a bold, modern aesthetic that stands apart from traditional rounded shapes.
Excellent Value
Princess cuts retain up to 80% of the rough diamond weight during cutting — more than any other shape — resulting in a lower cost per carat.
Versatile Setting
Looks stunning in channel settings, solitaires and halo designs. Its square shape creates seamless side-by-side arrangements in bands.
Our Collection
Princess Cut Diamonds
Hand-picked certified princess cut diamonds from our current stock — at prices up to 75% below retail.
Expert Advice
Why Choose a Princess Cut?
More Carat for Your Budget
Princess cuts retain up to 80% of the rough diamond — significantly more than the 50% typical for round brilliants. This means a larger diamond at a lower cost per carat, giving you exceptional value without compromising on sparkle.
Brilliance That Rivals the Round
With 76 facets arranged in a chevron pattern, the princess cut delivers an intense, scintillating light return that rivals the round brilliant — but with a distinctly contemporary, geometric appearance.
Appears Larger Face-Up
The diagonal measurement of a princess cut is typically 15% greater than the diameter of a round brilliant of the same carat weight. This creates the visual impression of a larger stone when viewed from above.
Perfect for Channel Settings
The straight edges of the princess cut allow stones to sit flush next to each other in channel and invisible settings — creating seamless, continuous lines of sparkle in wedding bands and eternity rings.
Modern Yet Timeless
While newer than the round brilliant, the princess cut has earned its place as a modern classic. Its clean geometric lines appeal to contemporary tastes while its brilliant facet pattern ensures lasting, timeless sparkle.
Explore More
Other Diamond Shapes
Not sure if a princess cut is right for you? Explore our complete range of certified diamond shapes
Pear
A teardrop silhouette combining the best of round and marquise cuts.
Round Brilliant
Oval
Heart
Marquise
Diamond education
How to Choose Your Perfect Diamond
Selecting a certified loose diamond is a personal journey. Every stone is unique, and the right choice depends on a balance of the four fundamental quality factors — known as the 4 C's of diamond
Use our search tool above to filter by cut, colour, clarity and carat weight. Compare certificates, review 360° imagery, and find the stone that matches your taste and budget. Not sure where to start? Our experts are here to help.
Diamond Cut
Diamond Color
Diamond Clarity
Diamond Carat
COMMON Questions
Princess Cut FAQ
Everything you need to know about buying a princess cut diamond.
About Princess Cuts
Why is the princess cut less expensive than the round brilliant?
Princess cuts retain up to 80% of the rough diamond weight during cutting, compared to around 50% for round brilliants. Less waste means a lower cost per carat. Combined with slightly lower demand, princess cut diamonds typically cost 20–40% less than a comparable round brilliant — making them an exceptional value choice.
Do princess cut diamonds need protective settings?
Yes. The sharp, pointed corners of a princess cut are more vulnerable to chipping than rounded shapes. We recommend settings with V-prongs or bezel corners that protect each corner. Channel settings also offer excellent protection. Your jeweller should always set a princess cut with corner protection in mind.
What length-to-width ratio should I look for?
For a perfectly square appearance, look for a length-to-width ratio between 1.00 and 1.05. Ratios above 1.05 will appear slightly rectangular. Most buyers prefer the square look, but some intentionally choose a slightly rectangular princess for a unique aesthetic. Always check the ratio on the certificate.
Buying from Diamantwerp
Are all your diamonds certified?
Yes — every diamond in our collection is independently certified by GIA (Gemological Institute of America), HRD Antwerp, or IGI (International Gemological Institute). These are the three most respected and internationally recognised diamond grading laboratories. Each certificate provides an objective assessment of the diamond's cut, colour, clarity and carat weight.
How can your prices be so much lower?
We buy directly from cutters and sight-holders in the Antwerp diamond district — cutting out multiple intermediaries. Our low-overhead business model means we pass the savings directly to you. Same certified diamonds, fraction of the price.
Can I view the diamond before buying?
Absolutely. You are welcome to view any diamond by appointment at our office in the Antwerp diamond district (Pelikaanstraat 62). We also offer personal delivery within Belgium and secure insured shipping across Europe. Schedule a viewing.