Portuguese Cut Diamonds, Explained

In this guide

    By Clint Casmiro, Co-Founder, Smiro Studio, Toronto · Updated September 27, 2026

    Short answer: A Portuguese cut is a faceting style, not a shape. It adds extra rows of facets to the crown and pavilion compared with a standard brilliant, so the stone throws more fire and a busier, glittering sparkle. It can be cut on ovals, marquises, rounds and other shapes, and it is one of the antique style cuts we specialise in.

    Shape is the outline. Cut is what happens inside it. The Portuguese cut is one of the three signature cuts we have put real work into.

    What makes a Portuguese cut different?

    Extra rows of facets. A standard brilliant has one set of facets around the crown. A Portuguese cut stacks more rows, which breaks light into smaller flashes. The result reads old world, closer to a hand cut antique stone than a modern ideal cut.

    Which shapes can be Portuguese cut?

    Several. We have done Portuguese marquises, which turn dramatic and vintage, and Portuguese ovals, which stay a little more classic. Rounds and cushions work too. It is not our invention and plenty of cutters offer it. We just love it.

    Is a Portuguese cut more expensive?

    Usually a little, because more facets means more cutting time and more weight lost from the rough. The bigger factor is availability: they are much harder to find in stock than a standard oval, so sourcing can add time.

    How do I know if I will like it?

    Watch video, not photos. The effect is all in movement. We send real video of every stone before you choose.

    Want us to look at your idea?

    A free 30 minute video call with Clint or Karina. Bring a photo, a budget, or nothing at all.

    Book a free callSee our process

    Questions we get about this

    Is a Portuguese cut a shape?

    No, it is a faceting style. It can be cut on ovals, marquises, rounds and more.

    Does a Portuguese cut sparkle more?

    It shows more fire and a busier sparkle because of the extra rows of facets.

    Can I get a lab grown Portuguese cut?

    Yes. We source them in lab grown and natural.

    Is it an antique cut?

    It is an old world faceting style that jewellers group with antique cuts, brought back with modern precision.

    Keep reading

    Share

    More ring guides

    Price, timing, diamonds, settings and metal, answered with numbers from the rings we build in Toronto.

    See all guides
    ★★★★★

    Rated 5.0 by 166+ couples on Google

    Real couples, real rings.

    Megan W with their custom Smiro ring “They took the vibe in my head and turned it into the exact ring. She said yes.” Megan W · Past project Emily D with their custom Smiro ring “Stress-free start to finish. They sent renders until it was exactly right.” Emily D · Past project Julian with their custom Smiro ring “Found them on TikTok and talked to the actual makers. The stone is unreal.” Julian · Past project Nagrup S with their custom Smiro ring “The detail is even better in person. Worth every minute of the wait.” Nagrup S · Past project Kishori O with their custom Smiro ring “Absolutely amazing studio. They delivered above and beyond what we expected.” Kishori O · Past project
    Read all 166+ reviews →

    Rings we have made for couples

    Moval-Cut Diamond Ring with Tulip Petals

    Moval-Cut Diamond Ring with Tulip Petals

    A 2.05ct moval in a 6 petal east west tulip setting, platinum, with a hand engraved north star beneath the bridge. From Sam's sketch to the finished ring.
    Old Mine Cushion Diamond Ring

    Old Mine Cushion Diamond Ring

    A 2.5ct old mine cushion, newly cut in the antique style, set in 14k yellow gold with a hidden halo and low profile basket. Why Simon asked for an old mine by name, and how we built it.

    Approve your ring Before Production

    Get accurate 3D renderings before saying 'Yes'.

    +40 years of experience

    Expert Canadian craftsmanship you can trust.

    Family Owned Business

    Second generation and family-run for over 40 years.

    Insured Door to Door Shipping Included

    Fully insured, secure door to door delivery.