Diamonds have long been a symbol of eternal love, commitment, and elegance. But among the many cuts and styles available today, none encapsulates the sentiment of love quite like the heart-shaped diamond. Once considered a rare and niche choice, the heart-shaped diamond is now enjoying a major resurgence in popularity—thanks to evolving style trends, more sustainable options like lab grown diamonds, and a growing desire for jewellery that carries emotional weight.
So why are heart shaped diamonds suddenly stealing the spotlight? Let’s dive into their symbolism, history, style appeal, and what you should know before choosing a heart shaped diamond ring.
Read more: Your Comprehensive Guide to Diamonds
The Emotional Appeal of Heart-Shaped Diamonds
A heart-shaped lab grown diamond in all its glory
Few shapes are as universally associated with love as the heart. It represents romance, devotion, and deep emotional connection—all key reasons why couples are gravitating toward heart-shaped stones, particularly for engagement rings.
While round and princess cuts remain popular, some buyers want something more personal, more meaningful. The heart shape doesn’t just sparkle; it tells a story. Wearing a heart shaped diamond ring makes a bold yet tender statement—perfect for those who wear their heart on their sleeve (or finger).
A Brief History of the Heart-Shaped Diamond
Though it feels modern, the heart-shaped diamond has royal roots. The earliest known reference dates back to the 16th century, when Mary Queen of Scots sent a heart-shaped diamond to Queen Elizabeth I—a gesture rich in both diplomacy and sentiment. Over time, the cut found its way into noble courts and elite collections, becoming a symbol not only of love but also of distinction.
However, for most of the 20th century, heart-shaped diamonds remained a relatively rare choice, partly due to the complexity involved in cutting them and the difficulty in maximising their brilliance. That changed with advancements in diamond cutting and growing technologies—especially with the rise of lab grown diamonds, which offer more flexibility and precision.
Read more: Emerald vs. Pear Shape Diamond Rings
The Rise in Popularity: A Modern Renaissance
Today, heart-shaped diamonds are seeing a revival, driven by a few key trends:
1. Individual Expression – More women want jewelry that reflects their personality, not just tradition. A diamond ring for women that breaks the mold—like a heart-shaped design—lets the wearer make a statement.
2. Celebrity Influence – From Lady Gaga’s pink heart-shaped engagement ring to other A-listers opting for unique styles, celebrity endorsements have played a role in popularizing this cut.
3. Lab Grown Diamonds – Sustainable and ethical choices are increasingly important to consumers. Lab grown diamonds make intricate cuts like the heart shape more accessible and affordable, without compromising on quality or brilliance.
4. Social Media Aesthetic – Heart-shaped diamonds look stunning in photos and videos, making them a favourite among influencers and newly engaged couples sharing their love stories online.
How Are Heart-Shaped Diamonds Made?
Bold. Elegant. Unapologetically romantic
Creating a heart-shaped diamond is no simple task. It starts with selecting the right rough diamond, which must be large enough to preserve symmetry and brilliance after shaping. The diamond is then cut with a sharp cleft in the centre and two rounded lobes at the top, tapering down to a pointed base.
Precision is crucial. An off-centre cleft or asymmetrical lobes can distort the shape, making the diamond appear uneven. This is why it's essential to buy from reputable jewellers who specialise in heart shaped diamonds, especially if you're investing in a piece meant to last a lifetime.
Thanks to innovations in technology, lab grown diamonds can now be cut with greater precision than ever before, making them a top choice for heart shapes. These diamonds are virtually identical to mined diamonds in chemical structure and brilliance but come at a fraction of the environmental and financial cost.
Prong Settings: The Key to Beauty and Security
A heart shaped diamond ring isn’t just about the stone—it’s also about the setting that showcases it. The most common prong setting for a heart-shaped diamond includes five prongs: two on the lobes, one on each side, and one at the pointed tip. This not only enhances the diamond's natural beauty but also ensures it’s held securely in place.
Some modern settings might opt for three or six prongs, depending on the size of the stone and the design of the ring. A bezel setting, which encases the diamond in a rim of metal, can also work beautifully for a sleek, contemporary look. However, the tip of the heart should always be protected, as it is the most vulnerable part of the stone.
When selecting a setting, consider how it complements the stone and your lifestyle. If you are active with your hands, a lower-profile setting might be ideal. If you want maximum sparkle, a raised prong setting can allow more light to pass through the diamond.
Read more: What is Bezel Setting in Diamond Rings
Choosing the Perfect Heart-Shaped Diamond Ring
Every angle, every curve, tells a love story
When shopping for a diamond ring for women, especially one featuring a heart-shaped diamond, here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Symmetry is everything – The two halves of the heart should mirror each other perfectly.
- Clarity and color matter – Heart shapes show imperfections more clearly than some other cuts, so prioritise clarity.
- Size and proportion – The heart shape looks best in stones larger than 0.50 carats; anything smaller can lose definition.
- Consider lab grown – With more precise cuts and ethical sourcing, lab grown diamonds offer an excellent balance of beauty, sustainability, and value.
Whether you’re proposing, celebrating a milestone, or simply indulging in a gift of self-love, a heart shaped diamond ring offers the perfect blend of romance and individuality. With the growing accessibility of lab grown diamonds, this once-exclusive cut is now within reach for a wider range of buyers, making it easier than ever to wear your heart proudly.
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