What Is a Princess Cut Diamond?
The princess cut is a square (sometimes slightly rectangular) diamond with sharp 90° corners and brilliant faceting — 57–76 facets. Developed in the 1960s–70s to deliver round-brilliant fire in a clean modern silhouette, with a distinctive X-pattern flash.
- Best value — uses ~80% of the rough crystal (vs 40–50% for round), so it costs 15–25% less per carat than round.
- Corner integrity — sharp, undamaged corners are critical and structurally vulnerable; we verify before every center stone.
- Best ratio — 1.00–1.05 for a true square, up to 1.10 for slightly elongated.
Why ATL Luxury Jewelry for Your Princess Engagement Ring
Center stones over half a carat come with a GIA report (natural) or an IGI report (lab-grown). We source both natural and lab-grown princess cut diamonds across the full color (D–J) and clarity (FL–SI2) range. Every ring includes lifetime cleaning and prong-tightening. For matching wedding bands, see diamond wedding bands.
Princess Cut Engagement Rings by Carat — 1ct, 2ct, 3ct
Princess cut pricing runs 15–25% lower per carat than equivalent round brilliants because the cut wastes less rough diamond during shaping. Common princess sizes:
- 1 carat — compact but solid on the finger. $3,200–$8,500 natural ($1,500–$4,000 lab-grown) at G color / VS2 clarity.
- 2 carat — statement size with crisp geometric presence. $9,000–$25,000 natural ($4,000–$10,500 lab-grown).
- 3 carat — milestone size with dramatic geometric impact. $20,000–$50,000 natural ($8,500–$20,000 lab-grown). At 3ct+ we use heavy V-prongs to shield the sharp 90-degree corners.
Princess cuts appear slightly smaller than round brilliants of equivalent carat weight because more weight hides in the deep pavilion. Compensate by going up 10–15% in carat size to match a round’s visual presence.
Princess Cut Engagement Rings by Metal
Princess cut’s modern geometric aesthetic works in every metal, but white metals are most popular — the cool tone amplifies the sharp angular silhouette.
- Platinum — the premium choice; structural rigidity protects the vulnerable corner prongs over decades, critical where corner chipping is the main durability concern. See platinum wedding bands.
- 14K / 18K white gold — the most-purchased princess metal; platinum’s look at 30–50% the cost. Needs periodic rhodium re-plating.
- Yellow gold — distinctive warm-cool contrast (warm gold frame + sharp angular diamond).
- Rose gold — the most contemporary, particularly popular with younger brides. See gold and rose gold wedding bands.
Princess Setting Styles
The princess cut’s sharp corners make corner protection structurally important — not just aesthetic. The most enduring and protective settings are:
V-Prong Solitaire
V-shaped prongs shield each of the four corners — the most classic and protective princess setting.
Halo
A ring of pavé diamonds frames the princess, amplifying sparkle and adding extra corner protection.
Three-Stone
Trapezoid or tapered baguette side stones complement the princess — geometric harmony that symbolizes past, present, future. Browse three stone rings.
Bezel
A continuous metal rim encases the entire stone — the most secure option, with a clean modern aesthetic.
Pavé Band
Tiny diamonds along the shank deliver continuous sparkle and complement the princess’s brilliance.
Related Collections
Cushion Engagement Rings
The soft, vintage counterpart to the princess — same square outline, rounded corners.
Round Engagement Rings
The most popular shape — maximum brilliance in a classic circular silhouette.
Emerald Engagement Rings
Step-cut elegance in a rectangular silhouette — vintage geometric.
Three Stone Engagement Rings
Princess three-stones are among the most timeless designs in fine jewelry.
Diamond Wedding Bands
Straight diamond bands designed to pair with princess engagement rings.
Custom Design Process
Commission a one-of-a-kind princess engagement ring in Atlanta.
Frequently Asked Questions
Visit Our Atlanta Showroom
See Princess Engagement Rings in Person
Our Snellville showroom — minutes from Atlanta, Lawrenceville, and Stone Mountain — carries a curated selection of princess center stones and finished engagement rings. Book a private consultation, or call us to source a specific princess diamond for in-person viewing.
1905 Scenic Hwy N Ste 230, Snellville, GA 30078 · (704) 684-7530