A cushion cut is a square or rectangular stone with rounded corners, named for its resemblance to a pillow. It is one of the oldest cuts still in use, dating to the 1700s when it was known as the old mine cut, and it has a softness that sharper modern shapes do not.
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Fire over brilliance
Cushion cuts have larger facets than a round brilliant, which produces broader, more colourful flashes rather than fine white sparkle. Jewellers call this fire rather than brilliance, and it is particularly noticeable in candlelight or warm indoor lighting, which is what the cut was originally designed for.
In moissanite, which already has more than twice the dispersion of diamond, a cushion cut produces very pronounced rainbow flashes. If you want maximum colour play, this is the shape.
Crushed ice or chunky
Two faceting styles exist and they look quite different. Crushed ice has many small facets creating a shimmering, textured appearance, like light on broken glass. Chunky, sometimes called antique or old mine style, has fewer larger facets and produces distinct individual flashes.
Neither is better. Crushed ice hides inclusions more effectively, chunky has more vintage character.
Proportion
Cushions range from square, around 1.00 to 1.05 length-to-width, to distinctly rectangular at 1.20 and above. Square reads as classic and substantial. Elongated cushions lengthen the finger similar to an oval and have become very popular. See our elongated cushion collection.
Settings
Cushions pair particularly well with halo settings, since the rounded corners let the halo follow the outline smoothly. Solitaire suits the shape well too, and the rounded corners are less vulnerable than the sharp corners of a princess or emerald cut.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between cushion and princess cut?
Both are square. Cushion has rounded corners and larger facets producing broad colourful flashes. Princess has sharp corners and a more brilliant, contemporary sparkle.
Crushed ice or chunky faceting?
Crushed ice shimmers and hides inclusions well. Chunky produces distinct individual flashes with more vintage character. Personal preference rather than quality.
Do cushion cuts look smaller than rounds?
Slightly, at the same carat weight, because cushions carry more weight in depth. An elongated cushion reads larger than a square one.
Are the corners fragile?
Less so than princess or emerald cuts, since cushion corners are rounded rather than sharp, which is a real durability advantage for daily wear.