Cushion cut gemstone rings have been dazzling jewelry lovers for centuries—and for good reason. With their soft, pillow-like shape and brilliant faceting, these rings offer the perfect balance of vintage romance and modern sophistication.
In 2025, the cushion cut is more popular than ever, gracing everything from minimalist solitaires to ornate vintage-inspired settings. From bold statement sapphires to delicate diamond halos, cushion cuts make any gemstone come alive with sparkle and depth.
But with so many stunning choices, which are the best cushion cut gemstone rings to buy this year? Whether you're looking for an engagement ring, an anniversary gift, or a bold fashion statement, this guide will help you find the perfect piece.
Let's dive in!
- Part 1: Why Choose a Cushion Cut? The Timeless Appeal
- Part 2: 2025 Trends in Cushion Cut Rings
- Part 3: Best Gemstones for Cushion Cuts
- Part 4: Top 10 Cushion Cut Gemstone Rings of the Year
- Part 5: How to Choose the Perfect Cushion Cut Gemstone Ring
- Part 6: Buying Tips for Cushion Cut Gemstone Rings
- Part 7: How to Style Cushion Cut Rings
- Part 8: Caring for Your Cushion Cut Gemstone Ring
Part 1: Why Choose a Cushion Cut? The Timeless Appeal
Before we get into the best rings, let's talk about why cushion cuts are so enduringly popular.
1. Vintage Charm
With roots in the 19th century, cushion cuts have a romantic, antique vibe. They look stunning in vintage-style settings with milgrain, filigree, or engraved bands.
2. Soft, Elegant Shape
Unlike sharp-edged princess cuts or strict rounds, the gently curved corners of cushion cuts give them a graceful, organic look.
3. Brilliant Sparkle
Modern cushion cuts feature modified brilliant faceting patterns that deliver amazing fire and brilliance—especially in colored gemstones.
4. Versatile for Gemstones
Cushion cuts work beautifully for all types of gemstones, from diamonds to sapphires, rubies, emeralds, and even semi-precious stones.
5. Great Finger Coverage
Their broad table and pillow shape make even moderate-carat stones appear larger.
It's no wonder cushion cuts are the choice of so many celebrities (think Kim Kardashian's 15-carat cushion cut diamond) and discerning collectors.
Part 2: 2025 Trends in Cushion Cut Rings
This year, designers and consumers alike are embracing a mix of classic and fresh styles:
1. Halo Settings with a Modern Twist
Think double halos, hidden halos, and unique shapes around the cushion cut center stone.
2. East-West Cushion Cuts
Instead of the traditional square setting, cushion cuts turned horizontally for an unexpected, edgy look.
3. Colored Gemstone Centers
From royal-blue sapphires to neon-green tourmalines, colored gems are stealing the spotlight.
4. Minimalist Solitaires
Plain, sleek bands with a single cushion-cut stone—perfect for modern minimalists.
5. Vintage-Inspired Details
Milgrain edges, hand engraving, and intricate filigree continue to be popular.
6. Lab-Created Gems and Moissanite
Budget-friendly, ethical alternatives to mined diamonds are in high demand.
Part 3: Best Gemstones for Cushion Cuts
While cushion cuts flatter almost any stone, some gems truly shine in this shape:
1. Diamond
Classic and unmatched in brilliance, cushion cut diamonds are a timeless engagement choice.
2. Sapphire
Deep blues look regal in a cushion cut, especially with vintage settings or diamond halos.
3. Ruby
The rich red of rubies pops in a cushion cut, offering old-world luxury.
4. Emerald
Though traditionally emerald cut, a cushion-cut emerald offers a softer, more romantic alternative.
5. Morganite
This peachy-pink stone looks stunning in cushion cuts with rose gold settings.
6. Aquamarine
Clear, oceanic blues in a large cushion cut deliver maximum impact.
7. Moissanite
For those seeking diamond-like sparkle at a fraction of the price.
Part 4: Top 10 Cushion Cut Gemstone Rings of the Year
Here's our carefully curated list of 2025's best cushion cut gemstone rings—spanning a range of styles, stones, and budgets.
1. Classic Diamond Cushion Solitaire
💎 Why it's great: Timeless and elegant, this style never goes out of fashion. A single cushion-cut diamond on a plain band lets the stone speak for itself.
✅ Best for: Engagement rings, minimalists
✅ Popular choices: 14K white gold, platinum settings
Pro Tip: Choose a stone with excellent cut for maximum brilliance.
2. Sapphire Cushion Cut with Diamond Halo
💎 Why it's great: The halo of diamonds around a deep blue cushion-cut sapphire creates a regal, vintage-inspired look.
✅ Best for: Anniversary gifts, statement engagement rings
✅ Popular choices: White gold or platinum with round brilliant diamond halo
Trend alert: Padparadscha sapphires (pink-orange) are an eye-catching alternative.
3. East-West Set Morganite Cushion Cut Ring
💎 Why it's great: This modern twist on a classic shape sets the cushion cut horizontally on the finger for unexpected style.
✅ Best for: Modern brides, fashion-forward shoppers
✅ Popular choices: Rose gold settings with diamond pavé bands
Bonus: Morganite is budget-friendly and flatters warm skin tones.
4. Emerald Cushion Cut Vintage-Inspired Ring
💎 Why it's great: Cushion cuts soften the strong color of emeralds while vintage settings with milgrain or filigree enhance the stone's regal appeal.
✅ Best for: Heirloom-inspired designs
✅ Popular choices: Yellow or white gold, hand-engraved bands
Expert tip: Choose emeralds with minimal inclusions for best durability.
5. Ruby Cushion Cut with Double Diamond Halo
💎 Why it's great: Bold, rich color framed by not one but two sparkling halos—unapologetically luxurious.
✅ Best for: Bold personalities, milestone celebrations
✅ Popular choices: White or rose gold settings
Trend note: Pink sapphires offer a softer, more romantic alternative.
6. Moissanite Cushion Cut on Split Shank Band
💎 Why it's great: Moissanite rivals diamond's brilliance for a fraction of the price. The split shank design adds visual interest.
✅ Best for: Ethical shoppers, budget-conscious buyers
✅ Popular choices: White gold, platinum
Eco-friendly: Many brands offer fully recycled metal options.
7. Aquamarine Cushion Cut Bezel Set Ring
💎 Why it's great: Bezel settings protect softer stones like aquamarine while the icy-blue cushion cut creates an ethereal vibe.
✅ Best for: Everyday wear, March birthdays
✅ Popular choices: Sterling silver, white gold
Styling tip: Pairs beautifully with minimalist wardrobes.
8. Lab-Created Diamond Cushion Cut Engagement Ring
💎 Why it's great: Identical in appearance to mined diamonds, lab-created options are sustainable and affordable.
✅ Best for: Eco-conscious couples, value shoppers
✅ Popular choices: Platinum or 18K gold settings with hidden halos
Pro tip: Check for reputable lab certifications.
9. Vintage-Inspired Cushion Cut Halo with Milgrain
💎 Why it's great: Antique-style settings bring out the romance of the cushion cut, with tiny beaded milgrain edging for detail.
✅ Best for: Vintage lovers, collectors
✅ Popular choices: Yellow gold or rose gold settings
Stone options: Diamonds, sapphires, rubies, or moissanite.
10. Cushion Cut Multi-Stone Cocktail Ring
💎 Why it's great: Perfect for fashion statements, these rings combine a large center cushion cut with accent stones on the band.
✅ Best for: Evening wear, special occasions
✅ Popular choices: Colored gemstones with diamond accents
Styling idea: Bold enough to wear solo, no other rings needed.
Part 5: How to Choose the Perfect Cushion Cut Gemstone Ring
Here's what to consider when shopping for your dream ring:
✅Quality of the Cut
Cushion cuts can vary. A well-cut stone maximizes brilliance and minimizes windowing (a see-through effect).
⭐ Look for symmetrical faceting
⭐ Avoid overly deep or shallow stones
⭐ Ask for cut grading if available
✅Clarity and Color
Especially important for transparent gemstones.
⭐ Diamonds: VS2 or higher clarity, near-colorless (G–H) is great value.
⭐ Sapphires, rubies: Some inclusions are normal—look for rich, even color.
⭐ Emeralds: Eye-clean stones are rarer and more valuable.
✅Size and Carat Weight
Cushion cuts often look larger than other shapes of the same carat weight.
⭐ Consider finger size for balance.
⭐ Don't sacrifice quality for size—better cut and color always wins.
✅Metal Choice
The metal affects the overall vibe.
⭐ White gold or platinum: Modern, bright.
⭐ Yellow gold: Classic, warm.
⭐ Rose gold: Romantic, vintage-inspired.
✅ Setting Style
Different settings enhance different aspects.
⭐ Solitaire: Clean, modern.
⭐ Halo: Adds sparkle and size.
⭐ Bezel: Secure, sleek.
⭐ Vintage: Detailed, romantic.
Part 6: Buying Tips for Cushion Cut Gemstone Rings
🛒 Set a budget—Be realistic but prioritize quality over size.
🛒 Compare retailers—Online stores often offer better pricing but ensure good return policies.
🛒 Request certification—Especially for diamonds and colored stones.
🛒 Ask about warranties—Covers resizing, repairs, maintenance.
🛒 Check customization options—Some jewelers offer bespoke design for a personal touch.
Part 7: How to Style Cushion Cut Rings
💍 For engagement: Pair with a slim pavé band for balance.
💍 For cocktail: Let it shine solo—no need for stacked bands.
💍 For daily wear: Choose low-profile or bezel settings.
💍 For vintage looks: Combine with other antique-inspired pieces.
💍 For minimalist style: Stick with solitaires in subtle metals.
Part 8: Caring for Your Cushion Cut Gemstone Ring
✨ Clean gently with warm soapy water and a soft brush.
✨ Avoid harsh chemicals—take rings off when cleaning.
✨ Store separately to prevent scratches.
✨ Inspect prongs regularly—especially for high-value stones.
✨ Professional cleaning once or twice a year keeps them looking new.
Conclusion: Finding Your Perfect Cushion Cut Gemstone Ring
Cushion cut gemstone rings continue to reign in 2025 for their unmatched blend of vintage romance and modern brilliance. Whether you're choosing a timeless diamond solitaire, a regal sapphire halo, or an avant-garde east-west morganite, there's a perfect cushion cut ring for every taste, budget, and occasion.
Use this guide to explore the best designs of the year, shop smart, and style your ring in a way that truly reflects you. After all, your ring isn't just jewelry—it's your story, in a shape that will always stay in style.