As diamond tastes evolve, shape is becoming just as important as carat weight and clarity. At Diamond Monster, we closely follow market data, celebrity influence, and buying behavior to anticipate what’s next.
Looking back at 2025 — and forward into 2026 — one thing is clear: modern buyers are embracing individuality, elongated silhouettes, and statement-making stones more than ever before.
Here’s our expert forecast on the loose diamond shapes set to define 2026.
Oval Diamonds: The New Everyday Icon
Oval diamonds continued their strong momentum throughout 2025 and are poised to remain the most in-demand shape in 2026.
Their appeal lies in balance — exceptional brilliance paired with an elongated silhouette that visually enhances finger length. Many buyers also appreciate how oval diamonds appear larger than round stones of the same carat weight.
In 2026, expect to see ovals paired with both minimal solitaire settings and modern halos, making them a versatile choice for classic and contemporary styles alike.
Emerald & Asscher Cuts: Quiet Luxury Takes Center Stage
Step-cut diamonds such as emerald and Asscher gained renewed attention in 2025 as consumers leaned into refined, architectural aesthetics.
Rather than chasing sparkle alone, buyers are increasingly drawn to the depth, clarity, and sophistication these cuts offer. In 2026, emerald-cut diamonds are expected to attract clients who value understated elegance and timeless design — especially in sleek, minimalist settings.
Cushion Cuts: Romance with a Modern Twist
Cushion diamonds continue to bridge the gap between vintage charm and modern brilliance.
In 2025, demand grew for softer silhouettes that felt romantic yet substantial. This trend is expected to carry into 2026, particularly for cushion cuts with slightly elongated proportions. They pair beautifully with warm-toned metals and intricate detailing, making them a favorite for sentimental designs.
Pear & Marquise: Bold Shapes for Confident Statements
Elongated shapes like pear and marquise diamonds made a noticeable return in 2025, driven by buyers seeking distinction and visual impact.
These shapes offer dramatic finger coverage and a strong editorial presence. In 2026, they will continue to appeal to those who want their diamond to stand out — especially when set with protective prongs or contemporary bezels that enhance both beauty and wearability.
Radiant Cuts: Maximum Sparkle, Modern Geometry
Radiant diamonds are gaining popularity for combining the brilliance of round cuts with a clean, geometric outline.
As more buyers look for sparkle without traditional silhouettes, radiant cuts are expected to grow steadily in 2026. They are particularly popular in bold engagement rings and statement jewelry where fire and presence matter most.
Vintage-Inspired & Antique Cuts: Character Over Convention
Interest in antique-style diamonds continued to rise in 2025, reflecting a broader desire for uniqueness and storytelling.
Old mine–inspired cushions, softer facets, and heritage-style proportions are expected to remain a niche but meaningful part of the 2026 market. These diamonds appeal to clients who value craftsmanship, history, and individuality over trend-driven design.
How 2026 Buyers Are Choosing Diamonds
Several key shifts are shaping diamond preferences:
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Elongated shapes are favored for their elegant proportions and larger visual impact
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Lab-grown diamonds are enabling buyers to choose larger or more distinctive shapes
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Personal expression is outweighing traditional “rules” around diamond selection
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Shape and setting are increasingly designed together as a complete aesthetic
At Diamond Monster, we see clients prioritizing how a diamond feels — not just how it grades.
Our 2026 Outlook
The year ahead is about confidence, personality, and intentional design.
Oval, emerald, and cushion diamonds will anchor mainstream demand, while pear, marquise, and vintage-inspired cuts offer expressive alternatives. With greater access to both natural and lab-grown diamonds, 2026 will empower more people to choose shapes that truly reflect who they are.
At Diamond Monster, we believe the right diamond shape isn’t about trends alone — it’s about finding the form that tells your story best.
