Before you go engagement ring shopping, it's important to know the basics of ring cuts and shapes. From princess to emerald, find out the little details that make each ring cut unique.

The marquise is an oval with pointed ends.

The cushion cut is a cross between a rectangle and an oval; it has a pillow shape, and it is also called an "antique cut."

An emerald cut (originally developed for the gem of the same name) is rectangular with cropped corners and long, stair-step-like facets.

An asscher is similar to an emerald cut, but square, so it looks octagonal (the radiant is a popular variation of these but with facets that give it even greater sparkle).

A very popular diamond cut, the princess cut is a brilliant square stone.

One of the most popular cuts for an engagement ring, the round cut is also a classic diamond shape. A round stone with 58 facets, it has the most sparkle.

A heart-shaped diamond resembles its name, so the diamond is in the shape of a literal heart.

A pear-cut diamond also resembles its name. An added bonus to the pear shape is that if you wear it with the point facing away from your body, it makes your finger look long and slender.