Trapezoid Diamonds

A Trapezoid Diamond is a type of diamond cut that feature four sides with two parallel sides and two slanted sides, creating a trapezoidal shape. This cut is often used as an accent stone in jewelry, particularly in three-stone rings or side stone settings, but can also be used as the center stone in some designs. Trapezoid diamonds have a sleek and modern look, offering a distinctive geometric shape that complements other more traditional diamond cuts. 

• Shape: A Trapezoid diamond has four sides, two of which are parallel and two that are slanted, creating a trapezoidal or “step-cut” appearance. The shape is often symmetrical but can have slight variations. 
• Facet Arrangement: Like the emerald cut or asscher cut, the Trapezoid diamond usually features step-cut facets, which are long, straight facets that reflect light in a more subdued, sophisticated way compared to brilliant cuts like the Round or Princess cuts. 
• Size and Proportions: Trapezoid diamonds are typically smaller than the main diamond in a setting and are often used as side stones in jewelry designs. Their proportions (i.e., the length and width of the parallel sides) can vary, with different styles that may emphasize either a wider or narrower trapezoid. 
• Color and Clarity: The Trapezoid cut’s flat facets can show off a diamond's color or inclusions, so the clarity and color grades are important to consider when selecting this cut. 

The Trapezoid diamond cut differs from other popular cuts like the Round Brilliant, Princess, and Emerald Cut in several ways: 

• Shape: While most diamond cuts, such as Round Brilliant or Princess, have symmetrical shapes with straight or angular facets, the Trapezoid diamond has two parallel sides and two angled sides, creating a geometric, non-symmetrical look. This gives it a distinctive, contemporary appeal. 
• Faceting Style: Trapezoid diamonds typically use step-cut facets, which are long and rectangular, unlike the brilliant facets used in cuts like the Round or Princess, which create more sparkle. This gives Trapezoid diamonds a more refined, subtle appearance. 
• Use: Trapezoid diamonds are typically used as accent stones or side stones to complement the main diamond in a piece of jewelry. In contrast, most other diamond cuts are often used as center stones or stand-alone diamonds, although they can also be used as accents. 

• Elegance and Modernity: The trapezoidal shape provides a sleek, modern look that can add elegance and sophistication to jewelry, especially when used as a side stone in a three-stone ring or as an accent in a larger setting. 
• Complementary to Other Cuts: Trapezoid diamonds work beautifully as side stones in combination with round, oval, or emerald cut diamonds. The geometric, angular nature of the trapezoid contrasts nicely with more traditional diamond shapes, creating visual interest. 
• Size Perception: Since Trapezoid diamonds are often used as smaller stones next to larger center diamonds, they can enhance the perceived size of the center stone by creating a sense of balance and proportion. 
• Sophisticated Appearance: The step-cut facets of a Trapezoid diamond produce a more understated sparkle compared to brilliant cuts, offering a subtle and sophisticated appeal for those who prefer a quieter, more refined aesthetic. 

The clarity grade is important in a Trapezoid diamond because its step-cut facets tend to show inclusions more readily than brilliant cuts. The long, flat facets of a Trapezoid diamond can reveal any internal or surface imperfections. Therefore, a higher clarity grade (like VS1 or VVS2) is often preferred for this cut to ensure that inclusions are not visible to the naked eye. Lower clarity diamonds (like SI1 or I1) may be less suitable for this cut, as the inclusions could detract from the diamond’s overall appearance. 

Trapezoid diamonds are not more prone to chipping or damage than other diamond cuts in general. However, because of their shape, Trapezoid diamonds with pointed corners (where the slanted sides meet) may be somewhat more vulnerable to damage, especially if they are used as accent stones or side stones and are more exposed. Choosing a protective setting, such as prong or bezel settings, can help safeguard the delicate corners from impact. 

Trapezoid diamonds are most commonly used as accent stones in jewelry, especially in three-stone rings or halo settings. Their geometric shape works well to frame a larger center diamond, providing contrast and enhancing the overall design. While less common as a center stone, a Trapezoid diamond can still be used in a bold and modern setting to create a unique look. Its versatility allows it to complement other shapes, particularly rectangular or angular diamonds like the emerald cut or radiant cut. 

The setting style can significantly impact the appearance of a Trapezoid diamond. As accent stones, Trapezoid diamonds are typically set alongside a larger center diamond, and the setting can emphasize their clean, angular lines: 

• Three-Stone Settings: Trapezoid diamonds are frequently used as side stones in three-stone rings, where their shape and symmetry create a modern and sleek look. 
• Channel or Baguette Settings: Trapezoid diamonds can also be used in channel settings or along the band of a ring, where they add visual interest without overshadowing the main diamond. 
• Solitaire and Custom Settings: As center stones, Trapezoid diamonds often work well in custom settings, where the design focuses on geometric and contemporary aesthetics. A more protective bezel setting can help safeguard the edges. 

Trapezoid diamonds tend to be less expensive than more popular cuts like the Round Brilliant or Princess Cut. This is because they are less in demand and less commonly used as center stones. However, their cost is influenced by factors such as clarity, color, carat weight, and cut quality. When used as accent stones, Trapezoid diamonds are typically less costly than larger, center stones, making them a cost-effective way to add a unique touch to a piece of jewelry. Because of their unusual shape and limited market demand, Trapezoid diamonds are generally priced more affordably than more traditional shapes.