...it is likely they both preferred their diamonds to be "cushion cut". Cushion cut engagement rings, immensely en vogue more than a century ago are once again trendy - just ask Kevin Federline! He bought Britney the 5 carat cushion cut shown at right so he wouldn't be thought "a mooch". Elegant shape and subtle sparkle combine in this ring as a rare, slightly retro alternative to harder-edged modern designs.

For most of the 1800's fashionable people liked their diamonds in a softly rounded, rectangular shape - rather pillow-like. The popularity of this cushion cut may have been partly imitation as this shape was the choice for many of the largest diamonds ever found; the Hope Diamond, the Tiffany Yellow and the French Regent were all cut in cushion shapes.

Best In Low Light

Another popularity factor might be the benefits of this diamond cut prior to the advent of electric lighting. Sometimes called a 'candlelight cut' the cushion has fewer facets when compared to modern diamonds. This means the faces of the stone are relatively larger and will admit more light; this cut will also 'disperse' or refract more colorfully than more faceted styles - a benefit under limited lighting.

When choosing your cushion cut diamond engagment ring remember this - in cushion cuts the diamond quality is critical! The larger faces of the cushion cut demand higher clarity diamond rough be used, and, they are also more revealing of any inclusions that are present. Similarly the stone's color will be more easily seen and be more critical.

Uncommon in modern rings, cushion cut diamonds may best be displayed as solitaires - their relatively rare shape will draw the eye. Accent stones in oval or trilliant shapes can be wonderfully complementary but care should be taken not to distract from the center stone’s rare shape.

The setting for a cushion cut stone itself is most often a four-prong; this arrangement holds securely but does not obscure the shape. Older rings used as many as eight prongs but other setting types may be best avoided because of the liklihood of distracting from the shape.

Cushion cut engagement rings are not yet common in jewelry stores, even designer boutiques. A couple might best find a loose stone then have it set in a suitable mounting.

Another option would be antiques - vintage cushion cut diamond engagement rings are occasionally found in pawn shops, as family heirlooms, or in estate sales. Both modern and antique pieces can be found on internet auction sites like eBay. In all cases take the necessary precautions to be certain your find it is high quality and your investment is protected.

A classy, uncommon shape and a romantic sparkle make cushion cut engagement rings a sophisticated alternative to flash modern designs. Beautiful and romantic they elegantly symbolize a couples' shared love.