Stone Shapes:
Finding the One That Speaks to You
Choosing the shape of your stone is a deeply personal part of designing a piece of jewellery. Some people arrive knowing exactly what they love. Others are drawn to a feeling, a softness, a structure, a certain way the light moves.
Each shape holds its own character, its own unique story. And just like with the sea, I believe there’s beauty in each detail once you take a moment to slow down and look closer.
Oval Stones
Lately, I’ve noticed a strong pull toward oval stones, a shape that’s graceful, feminine, and full of timeless charm. Ovals have been a favourite over the past few years, and for good reason. Their elongated curves offer elegance without fuss. Whether set in a delicate solitaire or surrounded by smaller stones, an oval diamond or gemstone brings a refined softness that suits many hands beautifully.
Cushion Cut Stones
For those who are looking for something a little different but still with that gentle, feminine edge, cushion cuts are a beautiful choice. These stones are square or rectangular in shape but softened with rounded corners. I love using cushion cuts in a range of settings, from classic claws to smooth, protective bezels, or even in a signet-inspired style. They also lend themselves beautifully to antique-inspired designs, like Edwardian five-stone rings, with a romantic, heirloom feel.
Round Stones
Round stones remain a timeless classic, especially for engagement rings. They symbolise unity and wholeness, and their versatility means they can be used in so many ways. From the bright brilliance of modern round diamonds to the softer charm of old mine cuts, rounds truly never go out of style. I also love incorporating them into the finer details of a band. Using tiny round stones, whether diamonds or sapphires, to highlight curves or create gentle waves of sparkle through pavé settings.
Freeform Stones
One of the most exciting shapes I work with is freeform cuts. This is when stones are hand-cut, usually sapphires, from trusted suppliers in Australia who focus on unusual colours and shapes. With freeform cut sapphires, there’s no rulebook. We begin with the stone itself and design everything around it. This often leads to asymmetrical designs that feel completely one-of-a-kind. These rings feel raw, alive, and full of character, perfect for those who want something that tells a story from the very first glance.
Emerald and Radiant Cuts
For a more structured feel, bring a sense of strength and elegance. These elongated shapes offer clean, straight edges, with a graceful flash of light that moves more slowly across the stone. I often describe them as having both masculine and feminine qualities - the sharpness of the cut paired with the softness of the sparkle. I particularly love setting them East-West, that is, across the finger rather than along it. It creates a beautiful sense of flow and sits seamlessly within the band, offering something classic yet quietly unexpected.
Each stone shape offers something different. It’s less about trends and more about what speaks to you. What feels natural, what reflects your story, and how you want to wear it every day.
When we design your piece together, we’ll explore these shapes in a gentle, collaborative way. I’ll guide you through options, share thoughts on proportions and settings, and help you find the perfect balance between beauty, comfort, and meaning.
Whether it’s an oval, a freeform sapphire, or something entirely new, we’ll find the shape that feels like you.
Naomi x