When purchasing a diamond, or, indeed, any precious stone, the shape the stone is cut in is of utmost importance. The shape of a stone determines how brilliant and scintillating it is and how much fire it can throw. (Are these terms throwing you? Don’t worry, we have you covered. Check out our glossary for precious stone vocabulary here.) In short, a stone’s cut can affect how it reflects light and color, and in some cases, can even affect the price. Whether you’re shopping for a loved one or are on the market for a treat for yourself, you can use this guide on the most popular diamond cuts and shapes.