The princess cut has rapidly become a favored choice for gemstone rings, particularly those designed around birthstones. Characterized by its square or rectangular shape and brilliant faceting, this relatively modern cut offers a striking and sophisticated aesthetic. While not traditionally associated with specific birthstones, the princess cut is increasingly utilized to showcase a wide variety of gemstones, offering a customizable and contemporary approach to birthstone jewelry. This article will explore the origins of the princess cut, its application in birthstone rings, available materials, and considerations for care.
A Recent Innovation in Gem Cutting
The princess cut is a comparatively recent addition to the world of gemstones, created in the 1960s. Prior to this, square cuts existed, but they lacked the brilliance achieved through the princess cut’s specific faceting arrangement. The multiple facets of the princess cut are designed to maximize light return, resulting in a stone that sparkles brightly. This design makes it a popular choice for engagement rings and other special occasion jewelry, and increasingly, for personalized birthstone pieces. The cut’s elegant and contemporary design appeals to those who appreciate traditional cuts but desire a ring that stands out.
Birthstones and the Princess Cut: A Versatile Combination
The princess cut is not inherently linked to a single birthstone; rather, it serves as a versatile setting for showcasing a diverse range of gems associated with each month. Several retailers offer rings featuring princess-cut gemstones representing each birthstone. These include:
- January: Genuine Mozambique Garnet
- February: Genuine Amethyst
- March: Genuine Aquamarine
- April: Lab Created White Sapphire
- May: Lab Created Emerald
- June: Lab Created Alexandrite
- July: Lab Created Ruby
- August: Genuine Peridot
- September: Simulated Blue Sapphire
- October: Synthetic Pink Sapphire
- November: Genuine Citrine
- December: Genuine Blue Topaz
The availability of both natural and lab-created options further expands the possibilities for customization. While some sources specify “genuine” gemstones for certain months (Garnet, Amethyst, Aquamarine, Peridot, Citrine, and Blue Topaz), others utilize lab-created alternatives (White Sapphire, Emerald, Alexandrite, Ruby) or simulations (Blue Sapphire) to offer a wider price range and accessibility.
Materials and Construction
Princess cut birthstone rings are commonly crafted from sterling silver, available with finishes in silver, 18K gold, or rose gold. The band thickness varies, with some designs featuring a delicate 1mm band, while others utilize a more substantial 4mm band. The gemstones themselves are typically set as either a solitaire or as part of a three-stone setting.
The size of the princess-cut gemstones also varies. Some rings feature approximately 2.5mm round-cut stones paired with 3mm princess-cut stones, while others showcase a single 4mm princess-cut stone as the central focus. Cubic zirconia (CZ) is also frequently used as a gemstone alternative, offering a cost-effective option for those seeking the aesthetic of a birthstone without the expense of a natural gem.
Customization and Design Options
A key feature of princess cut birthstone rings is the opportunity for customization. The “Toi et Moi” style, featuring two gemstones representing two individuals, is a popular choice. This design allows for the selection of two different birthstones, symbolizing a unique connection. Rings are available in a range of sizes, and retailers often provide sizing guides to ensure a comfortable fit. Some retailers offer physical ring sizers for accurate measurement.
Several established jewelry brands, including TACORI, A. Jaffe, ArtCarved, Jeff Cooper, Michael M, Martin Flyer, Benchmark, Simon G, and Verragio, offer princess cut engagement ring collections, demonstrating the cut’s popularity and versatility.
Care and Maintenance
Rings crafted from sterling silver require regular cleaning to maintain their luster. Eco-friendly packaging and a 90-day warranty are often provided with purchases, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and customer satisfaction. While specific care instructions for each gemstone vary depending on its composition and hardness, general guidelines include:
- Avoid exposure to harsh chemicals.
- Clean regularly with a soft cloth.
- Store rings individually to prevent scratching.
- Consider professional cleaning and inspection periodically.