Princess Cut Diamonds: Still Stylish or Past Their Peak?

Not every diamond shape is made to last — but the princess cut continues to prove its staying power.

Known for its clean square silhouette and brilliant sparkle, the princess cut surged in popularity in the 1980s as a bold alternative to traditional rounds. In 2025, it’s not topping every trend list — but it’s far from obsolete.

What keeps it relevant? Timeless geometry. Strong light performance. And great value per carat. Whether set in a sleek solitaire or modern three-stone ring, princess cuts still resonate with couples who want something refined, architectural, and lasting.

At DiamondNet, we continue to see demand for this versatile shape — especially among Vancouver buyers looking for a custom ring that balances edge and elegance.

What Makes Princess‑Cut Diamonds Special

The princess cut is more than just a pretty square. It combines bold geometry with brilliant sparkle — a shape that appeals to those who want edge, symmetry, and elegance all in one.

A Modern Classic with Smart Origins

Originally developed in the 1960s and perfected in the following decades, the princess cut — technically a square modified brilliant — was designed to maximize brilliance while minimizing diamond waste. Its inverted pyramid shape beneath the square top retains more of the original rough stone, making it both dazzling and cost-efficient.

Why It Still Works Today

✔ Striking brilliance: Princess cuts have faceting patterns that create vibrant fire and scintillation — second only to rounds.

✔ Contemporary edge: The clean lines and square silhouette fit perfectly with modern and minimalist settings.

✔ Great value: Since more of the rough stone is preserved during cutting, you typically get a larger-looking diamond for less per carat than a round.

For many, this shape represents the perfect intersection of form and function — sharp in style, and smart in value.

Princess Cut Considerations: What to Know Before You Buy

Princess-cut diamonds are stunning — but like any cut, they come with design and care factors to keep in mind. The good news? Every concern has a simple solution when you know what to look for.

1. Fragile Corners Need Protection

The pointed corners are a signature of the princess cut — but they’re also its most delicate feature.

Tip: Choose a secure setting like V-shaped prongs, a bezel, or a protective halo. These designs safeguard the corners from chips while enhancing the diamond’s style.

2. Colour Shows More Easily

Because princess cuts have large, open table facets, they can show more body colour than round brilliants.

Tip: If you’re choosing a warm-toned metal (like yellow or rose gold), diamonds in the H–J range can still look white — saving you money without sacrificing beauty.

3. Cut Grade Isn’t Standardized

Unlike rounds, princess cuts don’t receive a GIA cut grade. Instead, rely on polish and symmetry scores.

Tip: Aim for Excellent or Very Good in both polish and symmetry for the best light performance.

Want to see what this looks like in person? At DiamondNet, you can compare loose diamonds side-by-side in our Vancouver showroom — and see how cut and setting interact in real time.

Are princess cuts really out of style?

Not at all. While they may not dominate trend forecasts, princess-cut diamonds continue to hold strong — not just as a legacy shape, but as a smart, enduring favourite.

They’ve Never Gone Away

Even during the rise of marquise, oval, and pear cuts, princess diamonds have remained one of the top three most chosen shapes. They’re widely available, frequently requested, and consistently appreciated for their symmetry and sparkle.

Style Evolves — So Do Settings

While the traditional solitaire princess ring may feel familiar, updated mountings keep the look fresh. Styles like east-west or “kite” settings, clean bezel outlines, or trio designs with mixed shapes all give this classic cut a modern edge.

Celebrity Quiet Influence

You may not see princess cuts splashed across red carpets, but many quietly appear in celebrity collections and influencer features. For those who want style without trend-chasing, that’s exactly the appeal.

In short? Princess cuts aren’t trying to be trendy. They’re just staying timeless — and that’s why they work.

Why the Princess Cut Remains a Smart Choice

There’s more to a diamond than its trend score. Princess cuts offer a powerful blend of style, practicality, and value — making them one of the savviest choices for modern engagement rings.

Modern Aesthetic

With sharp angles and clean symmetry, the princess cut speaks to lovers of geometry and minimalist lines. It works beautifully in sleek solitaires, bezel settings, and even vintage-inspired or mixed-metal designs.

Smart Value

Princess cuts retain more of the original rough diamond during cutting, which often makes them more cost-effective per carat than round brilliants — without sacrificing fire or brilliance.

Visual Size Boost

The square outline and face-up diagonal create an optical illusion that makes princess-cut diamonds look larger than some other shapes of equal carat weight. It’s a subtle trick with a strong impact.

For style-forward couples who want brilliance and boldness, the princess cut continues to check every box.

Tips for Choosing a Princess‑Cut Diamond

Princess-cut diamonds offer big sparkle and sharp style — but to get the best out of them, it pays to be selective. These tips will help you choose a diamond that looks brilliant and stays secure.

1. Choose a Setting That Protects the Corners

The pointed edges of a princess cut are prone to chipping. Opt for settings like four-prong V-tips, full bezels, or halos to shield those corners without compromising style.

2. Prioritize Polish and Symmetry

Since princess cuts don’t receive an official cut grade from GIA, focus on Excellent or Very Good polish and symmetry ratings. These influence how evenly the stone reflects light.

3. Match Colour Grade to Metal Choice

Because princess cuts have large, open tables, they can show colour more easily than round cuts. If you’re setting the stone in yellow or rose gold, an H–J colour grade often appears beautifully white.

4. Examine in Person If You Can

View the diamond at different angles and lighting. Look closely for any flaws near the corners, and ensure the sparkle holds up in real life — not just on paper.

5. Explore Modern Settings for a Contemporary Look

From sleek bezel designs to geometric three-stone rings, modern mountings enhance the princess cut’s bold lines and bring the style into 2025 and beyond.

Final Take: Princess Cut in 2025

Despite shifting trends, the princess cut hasn’t faded — it’s simply evolved. Its sharp, square silhouette continues to appeal to couples who want brilliance with an edge.

✔ Timeless Appeal: The cut’s strong geometry and radiant sparkle have kept it in rotation for decades — a modern classic with lasting power.

✔ Great Value: Princess cuts offer size and brilliance without the premium pricing of rounds, making them smart for both beauty and budget.

✔ Versatile Look: Their shape suits everything from minimalist solitaires to ornate vintage or contemporary settings.

✔ Quietly Bold: Princess cuts are clean, confident, and striking — without chasing every trend.

In 2025, the princess cut isn’t outdated. It’s enduring — and more adaptable than ever.

Conclusion

Princess‑cut diamonds continue to prove that bold geometry and lasting brilliance never go out of style. Their sharp edges, radiant sparkle, and practical value make them a strong choice for modern couples who want a ring that balances tradition with personality.

At DiamondNet’s Vancouver showroom, we help you explore your options — whether you’re drawn to the princess cut or curious about other diamond shapes. Our team offers expert, pressure-free guidance to help you find the design that reflects your style and fits your lifestyle.

When you’re ready to see princess cuts in person or compare alternatives, visit us or book a one-on-one consultation with our jewellers.