CHICAGO — When it comes to picking the perfect diamond for an engagement ring, Illinois residents are showing a clear preference: oval-cut diamonds have officially claimed the top spot, surpassing even the timeless Round Brilliant cut.
According to a new report by VRAI, a fine jewelry company specializing in lab-grown diamonds, Illinois’ most popular diamond shapes reveal a strong trend toward modern styles and individuality in ring design.
Top 5 Diamond Cuts in Illinois
VRAI’s data highlights the state’s current favorite shapes:
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Oval
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Round Brilliant
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Pear
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Emerald
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Marquise
While the Round Brilliant remains the national favorite for its classic sparkle, Illinois couples are leaning more toward unique and modern alternatives, like the elongated oval or the tapered pear shape.
What This Trend Says About Illinois Couples
Experts suggest that these shifting preferences reflect changing values and aesthetics among younger couples:
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Oval and pear cuts offer a more elongated silhouette, often making fingers appear slimmer and giving the illusion of a larger stone.
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Shapes like emerald and marquise carry vintage appeal, ideal for couples who want their ring to stand out from traditional styles.
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The rising popularity of lab-grown diamonds, like those offered by VRAI, also shows growing interest in ethical and sustainable jewelry choices.
Why This Trend Matters Locally
This isn’t just a jewelry story — it’s about how Illinois residents express identity, values, and taste through tradition. Local jewelers and engagement ring designers may also want to take note:
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Retailers could stock more oval, pear, and emerald cuts to meet rising demand.
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Couples planning proposals may benefit from understanding current preferences if they’re looking for something stylish and meaningful.
From Classic to Contemporary: A Shift in Symbolism
“An engagement ring is deeply personal. These evolving trends show how Illinois residents are blending tradition with fresh, bold choices,” said a VRAI spokesperson. “It’s about designing something that reflects the story and future of each couple.”
What to Consider Before You Buy
If you’re shopping for a diamond in Illinois:
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Try on different cuts in-store to see how each shape looks on your hand.
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Explore lab-grown options for a more sustainable and affordable alternative.
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Ask about settings that enhance your chosen shape — oval and pear stones, for example, pair beautifully with halo or solitaire designs.
What’s Your Favorite Cut?
Have you chosen your dream diamond shape, or are you still exploring? Share your thoughts in the comments — or tell us what made you choose your engagement ring style. Let’s celebrate how Illinois couples are making tradition their own, only on ChicagoSuburbanFamily.com.
