Cushion Cut vs Round: Which Diamond Wins?

Round diamonds have more brilliance and a classic appeal, while cushion cuts offer vintage charm and often cost less per carat. Choose round for sparkle and cushion for softness.

If you're torn between the two, you're not alone. These shapes dominate the engagement ring world for good reason.

At Mikado Diamonds, we help couples navigate choices like this every day, without the sales pressure or showroom confusion. Our job? To make sure the diamond you choose looks even better in real life than it does online.

Let’s break down the differences so you can choose with clarity and confidence.

What’s the Difference Between Round and Cushion Diamonds?

Shape, Facets, and Overall Look

Round diamonds are the classic choice, perfectly symmetrical with 57 or 58 facets designed for optimal brilliance. Their shape is universally flattering and timeless.

Cushion cuts, on the other hand, have a softer, “pillowy” appearance with rounded corners and a square or rectangular outline. 

They come in two main styles: crushed ice and chunky. 

Crushed ice cushions have a more dispersed, glitter-like sparkle, while chunky cushions feature broad, antique-style facets that flash boldly under light.

How They Reflect Light: Sparkle Showdown

Round diamonds are engineered for brilliance. Their symmetrical cut creates an intense, even sparkle that’s hard to beat, especially under direct light.

Cushion cuts offer a different experience.

Instead of all-out brilliance, they radiate a romantic glow, especially in the chunkier styles that showcase bold flashes rather than constant shimmer.

Some people find this glow warmer, more intimate, and less “look at me.”

Which One Looks Bigger on the Finger?

Face-Up Size & Finger Coverage

When it comes to optical size, round diamonds usually take the lead. Their shallow depth and wide spread mean they face up larger than cushion cuts of the same carat weight.

That means more finger coverage and more immediate visual impact.

Cushion cuts, by design, hold more of their weight in the depth of the stone.

So while the carat number may match a round, they tend to look slightly smaller from the top. This surprises some buyers and can lead to post-purchase regret, especially if the diamond is set in a minimal solitaire.

The good news?

An elongated cushion cut can visually stretch the stone across the finger, making it look bigger and more flattering, especially on longer hands. Add a halo, and you can take that size illusion even further.

Style & Aesthetic: Which Fits You Best?

Modern vs Vintage Appeal

Round diamonds are the definition of classic. They’ve topped engagement ring charts for decades, loved for their clean lines and bright sparkle.

If you’re drawn to something timeless and easy to match with any style, round delivers every time.

Cushion cuts lean vintage. Their soft edges and subtle sparkle channel old-world romance, especially in antique-inspired or Edwardian-style designs.

They also enhance the saturation of colored diamonds, making them a favorite for lab-grown stones in pinks, yellows, and blues.

If you want a ring that feels like an heirloom from day one, cushion has that vibe built in.

Setting Compatibility

Round diamonds are endlessly versatile. Whether it’s a sleek solitaire, a modern hidden halo, or a pavé band that adds extra shimmer, round plays well with virtually every setting.

Cushion cuts shine brightest in halo settings, which can accentuate their curves and add visual size.

They’re especially stunning in warm-toned metals like rose or yellow gold, where the romantic aesthetic really comes to life.

Budget Breakdown: Which Offers Better Value?

Price Per Carat Comparison

If you’re weighing beauty against budget, cushion cuts offer a clear financial advantage.

On average, they cost 25–30% less than round diamonds of the same carat, color, and clarity. That price gap isn’t about quality; it’s about supply, demand, and cutting efficiency.

Round diamonds are the most requested shape, and that popularity drives up price. They also require more rough diamonds to be cut away, which adds to the cost.

Cushion cuts are more efficient to shape, which means less waste and lower price tags for you.

This price difference opens the door to either going bigger, improving quality, or staying comfortably within budget.

For couples working with a fixed spend, cushion cuts make it easier to prioritize carat size or upgrade clarity without breaking the bank.

Cushion or Round Comparison Table

Quick Pros & Cons Chart

Here’s a side-by-side comparison to help clarify the differences:

If you’re all about sparkle, tradition, and resale value, round might be your match. If you’re leaning toward softness, individuality, and size for budget, the cushion could be the winner.

Next Steps: What Should You Do Now?

You don’t need to figure it all out on your own. Book a consultation with one of our diamond experts today.

Think about your lifestyle. Will your ring be worn every day? Do you lean toward bold sparkle or soft elegance? Does your budget need to stretch for size, or are you focused on a particular aesthetic?

If you want unmistakable sparkle with a timeless silhouette, round might be your answer. If you’re drawn to character, warmth, and better value per carat, the cushion could be the perfect fit.