Yes and no. As a chunky, bottom heavy diamond you may want to size up your cushion cut to get the look you're going for....which can drive up the price. But if you're going big on size, cut back on clarity — cushion cuts brilliant faceting mask inclusions and a bit of color gives them a warm antique glow that's got romance written all over it.

If you plan on saying I do to a cushion cut, you'll want to test drive the size to ensure you get the look you're after. Cushion cut carat their weight in their bellies which means bulgy pavilions and chunky rocks that often look smaller and ride higher than their sparkly counterparts. When it comes to size, crushed cushion cuts are the worst offenders, while brilliant cushion cut diamonds often have straight-sided pavilions giving the illusion of a slightly larger face-up appearance.

Gooey timeless romance in all its Bridgerton Glory. Jokes aside, when it comes to engagement rings, you can't get more classic than a cushion. Evolving from the old mine cut, a chunky large faceted gem cut by candle light, the cushion cuts soft pillowy shape and timeless appeal makes them the perfect rock to symbolize today, tomorrow and forever.

At Frank Darling, the average cost of a cushion cut engagement ring falls somewhere around $5k. But that price can vary widely. Let's kick things off by discussing what goes into the cost of that glittering symbol of love – the diamond. Opting for a cushion cut diamond sourced from the earth will typically be more of an investment compared to its lab grown counterparts. This is due, in part, to the journey a natural diamond undertakes, from deep within the earth's layers to finally adorning your hand.

The price of your diamond is intricately tied to the renowned 4Cs - cut, color, clarity, and carat. These attributes harmonize to bestow upon your diamond its breathtaking shine and value. The sparkle of a cushion cut diamond, achieved through expert cutting, is paramount; a superior cut reflects more light, bestowing that sought-after shimmer and, consequently, commands a higher price. If it's radiance you're after, gearing towards a premium cut should totally be in your cards.

Color plays a pivotal role, with the absence of hue marking the diamond's rarity and elevating its cost, although slight color distinctions also hold their charm. Clarity, defined by the presence of minute imperfections, influences valuation - the more unblemished, the more valuable, although unique imperfections can imbue your stone with character. Carat weight, reflecting size, directly correlates with price, making bigger often pricier.

Beyond the diamond itself, the ring's setting influences overall cost. Adding to the complexity, material choices such as 14k gold or platinum vary in affordability. Ultimately, when it comes down to it, there's no set price you should expect to spend for a cushion cut engagement ring...there are just way too many factors!

Diving into the world of cushion cut engagement rings is like walking into a party where every guest is enchanting—but some definitely know how to turn heads more than others. Here’s the inside scoop to help you navigate this sparkling soirée.

Cushion cuts blend the old-world charm of antique cuts with a dash of modern brilliance, offering a soft, pillowy appearance with rounded corners. It’s like the diamond equivalent of your favorite plush pillow - cozy yet luxurious. This cut is famed for its ability to scatter light into a mesmerizing display of fire and brilliance. So, if you're looking for a ring that lights up the room (and your significant other's eyes), a cushion cut might just be your ticket.

But here’s the kicker: not all cushion cuts are created equal. They come in a variety of facet patterns, which can drastically influence their sparkle. You've got the "standard" cushion cuts with a fiery personality, and the "modified" cushions that up the ante on brilliance. The choice between a chunky or crushed ice look (reflecting a more broken-up appearance like shattered glass) can significantly alter the ring’s visual impact.

Cushion cuts also do a fantastic job at hiding inclusions thanks to their soft facet style, but they can masquerade their size a bit! They can appear slightly smaller than some other cuts of equal carat weight, thanks to their deeper cut. Oh, and let’s talk about color – these beauties can hold a bit more color than, say, a round brilliant, so if you’re eyeing a whiter stone, you might need to invest a bit more.

In terms of settings, cushions look stellar in both solitaire and halo designs. The classic appeal of a cushion is undeniably heightened by a halo, enhancing its size and bling-factor, while a solitaire setting sings simplicity with an air of sophistication.

So, when hunting for that perfect cushion cut engagement ring, ponder on the play of light you adore, consider how much color and clarity you’re keen to capture, and choose a setting that complements both the diamond’s character and the wearer’s hand.