What is a cushion cut diamond?

A cushion cut diamond has a square or rectangular outline with softened, rounded corners, producing a silhouette that resembles a pillow. The facet pattern typically runs 58 to 64 facets, creating broad flashes of light rather than the tight sparkle of a round brilliant. IGI certifies cushion cut lab-grown diamonds using the same grading criteria applied to any other shape, so you get a documented cut quality alongside the standard colour and clarity grades. Buyers choosing between cushion and princess cuts often prefer cushion for its softer edge profile, which reduces the risk of chipping at corners over time. The cushion cut suits solitaire settings and halo designs equally well, and its proportions tend to make the stone read slightly larger face-up than its carat weight suggests. If you want a shape with vintage character and measurable optical performance, cushion cut is a practical starting point.