Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Rings: A Guide
A crisp square with brilliant-cut fire — modern, sharp and full of sparkle. Here's what makes the princess cut a favourite and how to choose one.
Quick answer
A princess cut is a square (or near-square) brilliant cut with sharp corners and full fire. It offers plenty of sparkle, a clean contemporary look, and often more size per carat than a round. Its corners benefit from a protective setting, and it pairs neatly with a straight wedding band. Made to order in solid 9, 14 or 18ct gold, with diamonds independently graded (GIA, IGI or HRD).
What is a princess cut?
The princess is a square or slightly rectangular brilliant cut, with the same fiery faceting as a round arranged in a sharp, geometric outline. It's the most popular of the square shapes because it combines modern, clean lines with brilliant sparkle. Viewed from above it reads as a crisp square; from the side it has a distinctive inverted-pyramid profile.
Why choose a princess?
- Brilliant sparkle. Full brilliant faceting gives lots of fire.
- Modern, geometric look. Clean square lines feel contemporary.
- Value per carat. Often more size for the budget than a round, as the cut retains more of the rough.
- Pairs neatly. Sits flush with a straight wedding band.
Things to consider
The corners are the most vulnerable part of a princess cut, so a setting that protects them — typically V-shaped prongs at each corner — is recommended for everyday wear. Colour can show slightly more at the corners than in a round, so it's worth choosing a colour grade you're happy with across the stone. We help you select a lively, well-proportioned princess and a setting that keeps the corners secure.
Best settings for a princess
A solitaire with V-prongs keeps the square outline clean and protected. A halo adds sparkle and makes the stone look larger, and a channel or pavé band complements the geometric look. If you like square and cushioned shapes, compare with our cushion cut guide for a softer alternative. See the setting styles guide to compare.
Metal and diamonds
Every princess ring is made in solid 9ct, 14ct or 18ct gold — never plated — and qualifying pieces are UK hallmarked under the Hallmarking Act 1973. Diamonds are independently graded (GIA, IGI or HRD), in natural or lab-grown to suit your budget. Each ring is made to your size and specification, typically within 14 days, or created as a fully bespoke design.
Is a princess right for you?
Because every band is made to order in your size and carat, you can keep the design you love and adjust the details to suit. Message our team on WhatsApp and we'll help you choose.
Frequently asked questions
What is a princess cut diamond?
A princess cut is a square or near-square brilliant cut with sharp corners and full sparkle. It has the fire of a round in a modern, geometric outline.
Is a princess cut cheaper than a round?
Often, yes. The cut retains more of the rough diamond, so a princess can offer more size per carat than a round for a similar budget.
Are princess cut rings durable?
With the right setting, yes. The corners are the most vulnerable part, so V-shaped prongs are recommended to protect them for everyday wear.
Does a princess cut pair with a wedding band?
Yes. Its square outline sits neatly against a straight wedding band, which is one reason it's a popular, practical choice.
Are princess engagement rings made to my size?
Yes. Every ring is made to order in your size and specification in solid 9, 14 or 18ct gold, with diamonds independently graded (GIA, IGI or HRD). Bespoke designs are also available.