Combining Style and Sparkle
Although sapphires can be cut into many wonderful shapes, the key objective is to preserve the brilliance by allowing light to pass through. Mushan’s fully equipped in-house lapidary has experienced specialists who can help you choose a shape and carry out the cut.
Take a look at some of the cuts our lapidary provides.
Cushion Cut
The cushion cut is relatively rare �ideal for someone who wants an item few other people possess. The modern cushion shape is based on the antique cushion cut �a combination of round and square outline with a softened square or “pillow�shape.
As a solitaire, this cut makes a real statement. It also looks wonderful paired with side stones such as baguettes.
Emerald Cut
The emerald cut is the most classic sapphire shape. Purists favour its clean lines and regal simplicity. Because of its faceting structure, sapphires cut in this shape usually need to be of very high clarity.
This cut looks especially glamorous set in platinum, in a simple setting or a baguette side-stone setting.
Princess Cut
The princess cut is often called the modern classic �it is characterised by clean, straight lines and a beautiful sparkle. It’s the perfect cut for those who want a blend of grandeur and austerity. Developed in the 1970s, the princess cut is now second only to the round-brilliant cut in popularity.
The princess cut works beautifully as a solitaire. It also looks lovely paired with side stones, especially trillions or smaller princess-cut sapphires.
Round Brilliant Cut
The most preferred sapphire shape, the round brilliant cut is the most optically brilliant because of its 360-degree symmetrical shape. It is ideal for those who want the maximum sparkle and the ever-enduring classic shape.
This shape works with almost every mounting, from classic solitaires to avant-garde designs. If the stone is well cut, it is best to have the least amount of metal possible around it. That way, the sapphire is held securely yet displayed in all its glory, with enough light entering the stone.
Oval Cut
The oval cut combines the fiery sparkle of the round with a flattering, elongated outline. It is an excellent cut for those who want a unique shape as well as a brilliant sparkle.
The relatively symmetrical shape lends itself well to a variety of mounting styles. Most oval cuts look great in any mounting meant for a round brilliant as long as the setting that holds the sapphire has six prongs properly spaced for security.
Radiant Cut
The radiant cut is a beautiful combination of the classic emerald shape and the sparkle of the round brilliant. Those who want brilliance as well as rectangular lines would do well to choose this cut.
The radiant cut is dramatic as a solitaire. It also looks great paired with side stones such as baguettes, trillions or princess shapes.
