Princess Cut Engagement Ring: Cost, Meaning & Buying Guide

Choosing between a princess cut and a round diamond often comes down to a trade-off: maximum sparkle or maximum value. For Irish buyers, that trade-off carries real numbers. Princess cuts typically cost 20–30% less per carat than rounds of the same quality, according to DiamondsByUK (jeweller analysis). With the average engagement ring in Ireland hitting €3,840 in 2025, that difference can mean upgrading a whole carat or staying comfortably under budget.

Average engagement ring price in Ireland (2025): €3,840 ·
Princess cut vs round price difference: ~20–30% less per carat ·
Average carat weight in Ireland: 2.22 ct overall

What does a princess cut engagement ring mean?

A princess cut is a square or rectangular modified brilliant cut, typically featuring 50–58 facets. Its sharp corners and strong sparkle give it a modern, geometric look that sets it apart from the classic round brilliant. According to Angara (jeweller guide), the cut maximizes brilliance while offering a distinct shape that works well in solitaire and halo settings.

The cut was invented in 1980 by diamond cutter Betzalel Ambar, and it quickly grew to become the second most popular engagement ring cut worldwide. Its lower price point compared to rounds — generally 20–30% less per carat — makes it a go‑to choice for buyers who want a large diamond without blowing their budget.

Is princess cut better than round?

Why not buy a princess cut diamond?

• Brilliance: Round brilliant diamonds still produce more white light return. Brilliance Blog notes princess cuts excel in fire (coloured flashes) rather than pure brilliance.
• Durability: The pointed corners of a princess cut are more vulnerable to chipping if struck. Many jewellers recommend a bezel or V‑prong setting for protection.
• Price: For an identical carat weight, colour and clarity grade, a princess cut costs roughly 20–30% less. A concrete example from Brian Gavin Diamonds: a 1.045 ct G‑VS1 ideal‑cut princess was $6,066 vs $9,281 for a round.
• Visible size: Because princess cuts retain more rough diamond weight, they often look smaller face‑up than a round of the same carat — the same 1.045 ct diamond measures 5.46×5.41 mm versus 6.52×6.54 mm for the round.

The trade‑off is clear: you sacrifice some brilliance and face‑up size but gain substantial cost savings and a contemporary aesthetic. For many Irish buyers, that’s a winning exchange.

How much should I spend on an engagement ring if I make $100,000 a year?

What is a poor man’s diamond?

The traditional rule of thumb — 2–3 months of salary — would suggest a budget of $16,000–$25,000 for a $100,000 income. However, actual spending varies enormously. In Ireland, the average engagement ring price in 2025 is €3,840, according to Bespoke Diamonds IE (market research), with lab‑grown diamonds averaging €3,100 and natural diamonds €6,800. A 2‑carat ring is considered large and eye‑catching — the Irish average is 2.22 ct overall.

Is a 2 carat ring considered big?

Yes, a 2 ct diamond sits well above the average and will be noticeable. For a $100,000 earner, a quality 2 ct princess cut could cost $6,000–$15,000 depending on lab‑grown vs natural, leaving plenty of room in the budget for a custom setting.

The phrase “poor man’s diamond” usually refers to cubic zirconia or moissanite, which mimic diamond sparkle at a fraction of the price. These alternatives are popular among budget‑conscious buyers.

What cut is Taylor Swift’s engagement ring?

Taylor Swift’s engagement ring from Travis Kelce features an emerald cut diamond, designed by jeweller Neil Lane. The emerald cut — a rectangular step cut with a large, open table — has a distinctly geometric look that aligns with the modern aesthetic of princess cuts. Celebrity choices like this one have helped fuel demand for square, linear diamond shapes.

For shoppers browsing Irish jeweller catalogues, the princess cut remains a popular alternative to the emerald cut: both offer clean lines, but the princess cut delivers more sparkle due to its brilliant‑style faceting.

How soon after getting engaged do you marry?

The average engagement period in Ireland and the UK falls between 12 and 18 months. This timeline allows for venue booking, dress selection, and wedding planning without feeling rushed. Some couples marry within weeks; others stretch the engagement to three or more years. The key is aligning the timeline with your budget and wedding vision.

Once the ring is chosen — say, a princess cut solitaire from an Irish retailer — many couples immediately start negotiating photographer and venue dates. The ring itself doesn’t dictate the length of the engagement, but a striking diamond often sparks the conversation.

Confirmed facts vs. open questions

Expert perspectives

“The princess cut diamond is a square brilliant cut that offers a modern, geometric look. Its sharp corners and strong sparkle make it a bold choice for those seeking something different.”

— Angara (jeweller guide)

“Princess cut diamonds are typically more affordable carat‑for‑carat than round brilliant diamonds, making them an excellent option for budget‑conscious buyers.”

— Brilliance Blog (educational)

“The princess cut’s modern sparkle and bold shape have made it a popular choice for those who want a contemporary twist on the classic solitaire.”

— Whiteflash (diamond retailer)

Three different industry voices all converge on the same take: the princess cut is a value‑packed, fashionable alternative to the round brilliant. The catch is that its sharp corners require careful setting work.

For Irish couples, the decision is straightforward: if you prioritise maximum brilliance and a classic round shape, go for the round brilliant. If you want a larger diamond, a modern aesthetic, and a noticeably lower price — and you’re willing to protect the corners with the right setting — the princess cut is the smarter choice. For the majority of buyers browsing Dublin or Cork jewellers, that trade‑off makes the princess cut the winner on value per carat.

For a more detailed breakdown of settings and value retention, see our comprehensive princess cut engagement ring guide.

Frequently asked questions

Related reading: Princess Cut vs Round Cut: Price Comparison & Buying Guide · Princess Cut Engagement Ring Buying Guide