The Princess Cut is relatively new. It is a very attractive cut that gives out maximum brilliance from a square cut. It is effectively a square version of the round brilliant cut and is known as the square modified brilliant cut. The square or rectangular cut was invented about 30 years ago by Basil Watermeyer from Johannesburg. It was then known as the Barion cut. This was a style with extra and improved so as to obtain maximum brilliance from the diamond.

The square stone are better for certain design application such as eternity rings, as they can be set in one continuous line with no gaps between them such as would be with round stones.

The Princess Cut diamond is more forgiving of diamond flaws. Any inclusions are less visible and any slight yellowish color is less noticeable. Also because of the extra faceting, princess cuts are naturally more brilliant and sparkly than ordinary square diamonds.

What to watch out for is that the setting for your princess cut diamond protects the four pointed corners as these are the points prone to chipping. A recommendation for a good princess cut diamond is having a depth percentage range of 58-80% and table of 58-77%.

While not the traditional selection, princess cut engagement rings are becoming very popular either as a solitaire or with accent stones.