The thing about being too mainstream is it loses the veil of mystery that’s what makes it alluring. When everyone wants the same thing, those who want to stand out usually go against the grain!
But despite its popularity, the princess cut still possesses a unique appeal. Perhaps because it doesn’t steer too far away from tradition and still exudes a modern cut and a brilliant make-up. And what a perfect way to exhibit this gem than to make it as big as 2 carats! A diamond size tagged to the elite making the wearer feel like royalty.
If you want to know more about the princess cut, get yourself acquainted here. Same thing if you want an intro to 2-carat diamonds, read more here! Now, considering your eyes are set on the prize, follow the steps below to get the best 2 carat princess cut diamond ring for your money's worth.
Look for Ideal Cut Proportions
Since princess cut diamonds have only been around for less than 50 years, GIA has not yet created a cut grade for this shape. But one of the top labs, AGS has found the perfect parameters for superior light performance and uses the following cut proportions:
If you stick to these parameters, rest assured that your diamond will display superb light performance, fire, and scintillation. But apart from the cut proportions, your princess cut diamond will look more appealing if it’s within a certain length to width ratio:
Any ratio up to 1: 1.05 will look square to the naked eye. If you go beyond that ratio, the princess cut will appear more rectangular. And a perfect square is what we want to see! Honestly, any 2-carat diamond will go smoothly with any shape, but if we’re going to be specific, a princess cut displays a larger surface of 6.94×6.94mm compared to other rounded shapes. So, that’s a good thing!
Opt for a Lower Color Grade that Won’t Be Noticeable
I would always recommend a G Color. You can’t go wrong with it. It’s the sweet spot! But actually, it’s conditional. With big diamonds like 2 carats, body color becomes more evident so a G color would appear a bit darker in a 2-carat than a 1-carat. You can still opt for a G, but it’s best to see for yourself if the tone is good enough for you. If it looks warm, try an F color!
Take a closer look at these examples:
 G Color in a 1 Carat Princess Cut Diamond |
 G Color in a 2 Carat Princess Cut Diamond |
Can you see how much warmer the color of the 2 carat princess cut diamond is? Click the image to view in 20x zoom! Then again, if you’re planning to set your diamond in a yellow gold ring, you may pick lower color grades since the slightly warmer tone will be compensated by the setting’s color.
Go for the Lowest Clarity Grade as long as It’s Eye Clean
Now, having learned about looking for eye clean diamonds, you probably have this one on the bag. But tread lightly, my friend. Just like color, clarity is more evident in larger stones. Meaning, if we can find eye clean SI2 diamonds in the 1-carat range, it might be more challenging to find some in the 2-carat (or more) range.
Can you see the difference in clarity between the 2 carat diamonds below?
 Eye Clean – 2.01 Carat H-SI2 Ideal Cut Princess Diamond |
 Not Eye Clean – 2.01 Carat H-SI2 Ideal Cut Princess Diamond |
The Shortcut
Now, we don’t want to confuse an easy route with not giving enough thought. But there really is a quick alternative that would still allow you to find an exquisite 2 carat princess cut diamond ring!
1. Shop at a Reputable Online Diamond Store
A renowned diamond shop will assure you of your diamond’s value and quality. There are considerably more choices, and you’ll be able to view the diamond much closer than with brick and mortar store’s 10x loupe. The current no. 1 is James Allen. They have 360° diamond videos with 20x magnification that will really let you see your diamond up close!
2. Search with “Advanced Options” filtered with AGS Graded Diamonds
A sure-win approach is to choose your diamond according to the exact proportions above, but you can also opt for an AGS Ideal Cut grade in princess cut diamonds.
By doing this, you won't have to concern yourself with the specs as an AGS graded diamond is guaranteed to have an excellent light performance, as well as symmetry and polish!
3. Look for Eye Clean 2 Carat Princess Cut Diamonds
After checking the most important factor – the diamond cut – off the list, pick what looks good to you. An eye clean one, of course! Then, consult a diamond expert via the website’s chat tool.
Ask them for ASET analyses and basically, what they think about your choice. From there, it’s just a matter of personal preference.
The Bottomline
A 2 carat princess cut diamond ring is big, bold, and extraordinary from the outside. And this is probably enough for some. But don’t stop there! Your diamond can have all those traits while also being brilliant, fiery, and exhibiting an excellent light dance because it’s also superb on the inside.
With this shape and size, it could cost an arm and a leg, so might as well opt for the best cut proportions and get your money’s worth!
Should you have questions about 2 carat princess cut diamond rings, please don’t hesitate to write to me or comment down below. My advice is free! 🙂
About Sebastian Your Diamond Teacher
Sebastian Naturski loves to write about diamonds and share his knowledge with his readers.
When he is not working on his website he is studying law at Humboldt University of Berlin.
He has taken part in several international law competitions and likes to broaden his horizons.
His other big passion are languages. He is fluent in German, English, Polish and Japanese and got basic skills in French and Spanish as well.
