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2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring Buying Guide

With our guide, you can save up to $41,424. Learn how now!
Take a look at this guide if you want to get the most out of your purchase of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring. We will show you what is worth spending more money on and what is not, and we will give you advice on where to buy that perfect ring, or maybe even a better one.
Would you rather buy now and skip the lessons?
We have gathered the greatest deals on 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond rings from reputable online stores. Take a look at our chosen options by clicking on the provided links.

Diamond Price Guide Overview
8 buying lessons - 5-10 min total read time

Lock in the best deal for the most exquisite 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

In the upcoming lessons, we will teach you how to maximize the size and shine of your 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring without spending excessively. Additionally, we'll provide guidance on avoiding scams from diamond companies.
Average Price
$20,652.41
Price Range
$8,110-$59,890
Our Max Savings
$41,424
Lessons 1-4  ∴  Save Money 
Lessons 4 & 5  ∶  Spend Money 
Lessons 6-8  ∴  Personalize & Decide 
⤫ 40% Cash Savings

Lesson 1

Buying Online

Diamond rings are much more affordable when bought online. Brick-and-mortar stores can be up to 40% more expensive and offer a limited range of options.
⤫ $37,660 Cash Savings

Lesson 2

Clarity

Learn our clarity secrets and discover how to cut diamond ring prices in half. Get ready to save big!
⤫ $5,110 Cash Savings

Lesson 3

Color

The color of a diamond has a big impact on its price. We're here to help you understand how and when you can use this factor to save money.
⤫ 85% Cash Savings

Lesson 8

Lab Grown

By opting for a lab-grown diamond, you can save an impressive 85% on a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring. However, selling it later on might prove to be difficult.
☺ Spend Money

Lesson 4

Carat Weight / Size

Women generally prefer diamonds that appear larger in size, so this is the aspect where you should concentrate your investment. We are here to assist you in getting the most out of your budget by maximizing the size of the diamond while being cost-effective in other areas.
☺ Spend Money

Lesson 5

Cut, Sparkle & Brilliance

The way a diamond is cut has a big impact on how it looks overall. It's really important not to ignore this aspect because it directly affects how the diamond sparkles and stands out from others.
≔ Personalize

Lesson 6

Shapes

Every shape gives a diamond ring a distinct appearance and sparkle. We will help you understand the unique look and shine of each shape.
≔ Personalize

Lesson 7

Setting / Band

Choosing a solitaire ring can help you save money and create the illusion of a bigger diamond. However, it's important to consider your personal preferences as well.

Lesson 1 - Buy Online
Up to 40% savings here

Instantly lower the price of your online purchase of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring by up to 40%.

Consider this: purchasing your engagement ring online. Websites such as Blue Nile and James Allen provide significant discounts, reducing prices by up to 40% compared to physical stores. Additionally, you'll have access to a wider range of options and customization features. This way, you can find the ideal ring that suits both your preferences and budget.

To start designing a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring that is both affordable and of excellent quality, simply click on any of the 'shop now' links provided below.

Excited to go shopping? Our links will help you find the best deals on high-quality diamonds from trusted online retailers.

Our Money Saving Links

Watch us compare pricing with retail stores and our favorite online brands

Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Best overall experience, great selection, 24/7 customer support
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Another excellent website for very well priced diamond rings.
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Mostly here to show you how retail companies are not high quality. 

Lesson 2 - Clarity

The pricing of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring is primarily determined by the clarity of the diamond.

⊗ Up to $46,454 savings with these tips
Watch us save thousands of dollars by simply selecting the right clarity range.

What is Clarity?

In the world of diamonds, clarity refers to the presence of noticeable flaws. It's important to mention that these flaws are usually only visible when using a 10x magnifying glass. Diamond clarity is categorized from 'flawless' to 'included'. In the middle, you'll come across classifications like VS1, VS2, and SI1. These diamonds may have imperfections that can only be seen with 10x magnification. To the naked eye, they look absolutely flawless, so nobody will be able to notice any blemishes when they admire your ring!

Optimal Clarity Range for a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring

Choosing a diamond in the VS2-SI1 clarity range for your 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring can result in significant cost savings, potentially reducing the total price by as much as $46,454. When considering the clarity of the diamond, we highly recommend opting for a VS2 grade. This choice strikes a perfect balance between price and clarity. However, it is important not to overlook SI1 diamonds. With just a few minutes spent sifting through the available options, you can easily find SI1 diamonds that appear virtually flawless.

One more important tip! Always avoid "cloudy"

This one is simple. Always avoid cloudy diamonds found in the GIA certificate. This is the one flaw that really matters for brilliance. 
☆ These diamonds have identical carat, cut, & color 
Not Recommended
Go with this clarity
FL
IF
VVS1
VVS2
VS1
VS2
SI1
‹ drag left or right ›

FL - Flawless

Cost - $65,879 This diamond is flawless, without any imperfections, but considering its price, it's quite extravagant. Savings - You could save $43,644 - $52,138 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

IF - Internally Flawless

Cost - $59,890 The diamond is flawless on the inside, which means it doesn't have any imperfections. However, it might have some flaws on the outside. It's also quite expensive. Savings - You could save $37,655 - $46,149 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VVS1

Cost - $59,890 This diamond is almost flawless, but considering its price, it's still excessive. Savings - You could save $37,655 - $46,149 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VVS2

Cost - $45,050 These diamonds are really nice, but we suggest going for a lower clarity. Savings - You could save $22,815 - $31,309 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

VS1 - Very Slightly Included

Cost - $25,736 If you come across an amazing deal on a VS1 diamond, that's really great. However, the upcoming clarity grades are known to offer the best combination of affordability and value. Savings - You could save $3,501 - $11,995 with a VS2, SI1, or SI2 diamond

‹ drag left or right ›

VS2 - Very Slightly Included

Cost: $22,235 Total Savings: $3,501 - $37,655 If you want to make the most of your money, this diamond clarity is unbeatable. These diamonds appear flawless to the naked eye as any imperfections are completely invisible.
‹ drag left or right ›

SI1 - Slightly Included

Cost: $19,425 Total Savings: $6,311 - $40,465 You won't find a better price for diamond clarity than this. Remember, not all SI1 diamonds are the same. While some might let you down, many of them are absolutely stunning and could easily be mistaken for a VS2.

Lesson 3 - Color

The color of a diamond is a major factor in determining the price of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

⊗ Up to $7,229 savings with these tips
Watch us save thousands by purchasing diamonds in the right range

What is Color?

Diamonds can have a yellowish tint or no color at all. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) ranks diamonds on a scale from D (colorless) to Z (yellow or brown). Most diamonds used in jewelry have a slight amount of color and fall within the G-H range. The subtle hints of color in these diamonds are usually only noticeable when compared to higher graded diamonds like D, E, or F. While larger diamonds may show color more prominently, a cushion diamond from the G-H range will still appear nearly colorless and will be less expensive than completely colorless diamonds, such as those in the D-grade.

Optimal Color Range For A 2.5 Carat Cushion Cut Diamond Ring

Opting for a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring enables you to revel in its remarkable beauty while potentially enjoying significant cost savings. Rather than investing in higher-priced diamonds graded D-F, consider selecting a diamond within the G-J range. This decision not only guarantees an exquisite piece but can also lead to savings of up to $7,229 alongside any other prudent choices made regarding clarity.
Clearest Color
Best Value
Sometimes Ok
D
E
F
G
H
I
J
< drag left or right >

D color

Cost - $23,310 This diamond is colorless, meaning it has no hints of yellow, you can find these at a good price, but it is not as common. Savings - You could save $3,949 - $5,111 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

E color

Cost - $21,911 An E color diamond is a rare, colorless gem of exceptional beauty and value. You can sometimes find them at a great price. Savings - You could save $2,550 - $3,712 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

F color

Cost - $20,597 These are near-colorless with only slight traces of color, making it an attractive choice. You'd really have to look closely to figure it out Savings - You could save $1,236 - $2,397 with a G or H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

G color

Cost - $19,361 These are near-colorless with only slight traces of color, making it an attractive choice for it's quality and price. You'd really have to look closely to notice any color Savings - You could save $1,162 with an H colored diamond
‹ drag left or right ›

H color

Cost - $18,199 Total Savings: $1,162 - $5,111 These are near-colorless with only slightly more noticable hint of color, further making it an attractive choice for it's quality and price. You'd need to have a trained eye to see the color flaw in this one without having a colorless diamond next to it.
‹ drag left or right ›

I color

Cost - $17,107 Total Savings: $2,254 - $6,203 These begin to have a bit more noticable hint of color especially when next to colorless diamonds. These still have unnoticable color if placed on a solitaire ring, but we do not recommend these on a halo ring.
‹ drag left or right ›

J color

Cost - $16,081 Total Savings: $3,280 - $7,229 These also have a slightly more noticable hint of color especially when next to colorless diamonds. These still have unnoticable color if placed on a solitaire ring, but we do not recommend these on a halo ring.

Lab Grown Diamonds

Lab grown diamonds can often cut prices in half and no one will ever notice the difference. 

Lesson 4 - Lab Grown
Save up to 85% on your diamond ring.

Save Up to $19,200 on Your 2.5 Carat Cushion Cut Diamond Ring with Lab Grown Diamonds.

Lab-grown diamonds are incredibly attractive because they look just like natural diamonds, even though they are made in a lab. What makes them even more appealing is that the way they are produced is environmentally friendly and morally responsible. On top of that, lab-grown diamonds are significantly more affordable than natural diamonds, with prices that can be up to 85% lower.

Having a lab-grown diamond can minimize your financial loss if you ever need to sell your 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

Opting for a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring enables you to revel in its remarkable beauty while potentially enjoying significant cost savings. Rather than investing in higher-priced diamonds graded D-F, consider selecting a diamond within the G-J range. This decision not only guarantees an exquisite piece but can also lead to savings of up to $7,229 alongside any other prudent choices made regarding clarity.
Explore Lab Grown 

Lesson 5 - Carat / Size

When searching for a diamond ring, prioritize the carat weight as the main factor to consider when deciding where to allocate your budget.

Why is Carat Important?

Let's be honest about diamond rings. The main focus is on the size of the center diamond, isn't it? And guess what, ladies agree! Surveys reveal that the size of the diamond is their top priority. Considering that the carat weight determines the diamond's size, we suggest allocating your budget accordingly.
Watch us compare sizes and help you visualize what you want. 

This carat range is the top choice for a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

You might want to consider checking out diamonds that are between 2.25 and 2.75 carats. This will give you a good idea of various price options without a big jump in size.
Hand Diamond

1 carat

Explore More Diamond Weights

Lesson 6 - Cut

The cut of a diamond is what gives it that special sparkle. When buying your 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring, make sure to choose an ideal or excellent cut.

Find out why cut makes diamonds sparkle and why you want ideal or excellent cut diamonds.

What is Cut?

If you want to find an incredibly beautiful cushion cut diamond ring that is 2.5 carats, you should focus on its cut. The cut of a diamond refers to how perfectly its facets have been shaped, which ultimately affects its sparkle and shine.

The diamond companies well-kept secret

An 'Ideal' cut diamond is known for its maximum sparkle and is often thought to be the most expensive. But sometimes, a 'Fair' cut diamond with the same carat, color, and clarity can be even pricier. It may seem confusing, but poorly cut diamonds can appear larger without giving off the desired sparkle and brilliance. A diamond that lacks sparkle is like a garden without any soil.

Last but not least, make sure to go for GIA Certified Excellent Cut Diamonds (sometimes referred to as "Ideal" Cut).


Never Buy These
Definitely Buy These
Fair
Good
Very Good
Ideal
Excellent
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Fair Cut Diamond

Look at that dull sparkle... not much to write home about. Stay away from these.
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Good Cut

Still pretty bland in the sparkle area... stay away from these. 
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Very Good Cut

Getting better, but you don't save much money to  
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Ideal Cut

The is as low as you should go
‹ drag for sparkle ›

Excellent Cut

Blue Nile calls it Astor, James Allen calls it True Hearts, and Brilliant Earth calls it Truly Brilliant. 

Regardless, excellent cut diamonds have incredible sparkle.

Lesson 7 - Shape

When selecting diamonds, keep in mind that different shapes offer distinct levels of sparkle, and certain shapes can create the illusion of a pricier 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring.

What is Diamond Shape?

The diamond shape is all about how the diamond looks. It can be round, oval, cushion, and many more. Depending on the shape, the diamond can appear bigger or have more shine, giving it a classic look. In this section, you can check out our shape tool and browse through various 2.5 carat diamond rings with different shapes.

What shape to choose?

It's important to recognize that certain diamond cuts can give off the illusion of a bigger gem, and there are some cuts that are currently in style. Nevertheless, the most important decision is the one that truly speaks to you. If you're unsure about which cut to go for, think about getting a brilliant cut diamond. This includes shapes like Round, Marquise, Princess, Cushion, Oval, Pear, and Radiant. Out of all these options, Round diamonds are the ones that get chosen most frequently, while Oval and Marquise cuts can make a diamond look bigger without increasing the carat weight.
Watch us compare shapes so you can see exactly what style you prefer. 

Explore other diamond shapes

Try out different diamonds

Hand Diamond
Round
Marquise
Princess
Emerald
Cushion
Oval
Pear
Asscher
Radiant
Heart

Lesson 8 - Setting

The appearance of a cushion cut diamond ring with 2.5 carats can undergo a drastic transformation depending on the band it is paired with.

What is setting?

Sometimes called the ring's band, the setting is the golden part of the diamond ring. Usually, these bands are made of gold and come in various colors such as white, yellow, or rose gold. If you like, you can also choose a platinum band. The setting has a crucial role in determining the overall look of your 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring. It gives you an opportunity to showcase your personal style. We have gathered the top three settings that are most commonly preferred. Regardless of your choice, it is recommended to go for 14k gold. Continue reading to understand why this is the case.
The setting or band is really important for making your diamond look bigger and better. 

Choose 14K Gold for your band.

Here's an important rule to remember: try not to choose 18k or 24k gold for your setting. Your safest option is 14k gold. Even though 18k and 24k gold are purer, they are noticeably softer and more likely to bend. If the band holding your precious diamond can easily bend, there's a big chance that the diamond might come loose. This is a problem that many people often face.

Solitaire - A Great Band for a Flashier Diamond Presentation

Many women, when surveyed, prefer a large diamond. To emphasize the size of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring, a thin, delicate band in a Solitaire setting can be considered. The stark contrast between the smaller band and the larger diamond can create an illusion of a larger stone. Accent diamonds along the band can further boost this illusion, providing decorative detail without detracting from the main diamond.

Halo: Give Your Diamond the Illusion of Size with a Bunch of Smaller Ones

The halo setting offers a different way to make your 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring look bigger. By putting smaller diamonds around the main one, it creates a dazzling effect that makes the center diamond appear larger. If you want an even more striking effect, you could choose a double halo setting. Coupled with a slim band, this can make a smaller diamond appear much larger, giving the impression of a more luxurious piece.

Keep the focus on the main diamond.

Many women desire a diamond that looks impressive. Choosing a band that is overly ornate or wide can distract attention from the diamond and make it appear smaller. If you want to showcase your 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring as the main focus, it would be wise to choose a simpler band that doesn't overshadow the stone. However, if you value the overall design of the ring more, a detailed band might be a good choice. Just keep in mind that it could diminish the diamond's standout quality.

Build a Custom 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring Starting with Our Curated Diamond Selections For The Best Deals

Creating a unique and personalized piece of jewelry is an exceptional experience, allowing you to design a piece that truly embodies your individual style and personality, all at a more affordable price compared to purchasing from a store. Teaming up with renowned jewelry companies such as Brilliant Earth, James Allen, and Blue Nile, you have the freedom to select every detail of your ring, from the diamond's shape to the band's design.
Start Building
Watch us take you through the entire building process on our favorite websites.

Purchase your diamond ring online from one of our reliable partners. Each link will lead you to the greatest deal on a diamond ring.

We've collaborated with all the brands, and each Shop Now link is set up to find you the best price for the highest quality diamonds. To put it simply, it provides you with our exact settings on each website to discover the best deals for your needs. Take advantage of a wide selection, personalized rings, and exceptional customer support.

Our Money Saving Links

Watch us compare pricing with retail stores and our favorite online brands

Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Best overall experience, great selection, 24/7 customer support
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Another excellent website for very well priced diamond rings.
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
They focus on ethically sourced diamonds. Best option for karma free rings
Ease of Use
Pricing
Selection
Customer Service
Mostly here to show you how retail companies are not high quality. 

Virtual Appointment

Let us help you get help by the industry leaders. When you click the button below we will help you choose where to set up your appointment.
Book Appointment

Frequently Asked

Did you want to know even more? Wow you're a great student!

How much is a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring worth?

The average price of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring is $20,700, with a price range of $8,110 to $59,890.

How big is a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring?

A 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring has a size of approximately 8.5mm in diameter. This size is visibly larger than a 2 carat cushion cut diamond ring, which is around 7.8mm in diameter. On the other hand, it is slightly smaller than a 3 carat cushion cut diamond ring, which measures around 9.1mm in diameter.

What does a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring look like like on a hand?

A 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring appears elegant and eye-catching when worn on a hand. The cushion cut shape showcases a square or rectangular outline with rounded corners, giving it a soft and romantic appearance. The diamond's width measures approximately X mm, occupying around Y% of the finger's width.

What is the price of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring?

The price of a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring ranges from $8,110 to $59,890.

Is a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring good enough?

Yes, a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring can be considered good enough. Cushion cut diamonds are known for their elegance and timeless appeal. The 2.5 carat size provides a substantial presence on the finger, making it a desirable choice for those seeking a larger diamond. However, the overall quality of the diamond, including its cut, clarity, and craftsmanship, will also play a significant role in determining its overall desirability.

Is a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring big?

Yes, a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring is considered big. The average carat weight for a diamond engagement ring is about 1.2 carats, so a 2.5 carat diamond is significantly larger. A cushion cut diamond is known for its larger face-up appearance, so a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring will definitely catch the eye. While it is above average, it is still a popular choice and can be comfortably worn on your finger.

What does a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring weigh?

A 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring weighs 0.5 grams.

Should I get a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring?

A 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring can be a great choice because of its unique shape, larger size, and overall beauty.

Is a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring too big?

No, a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring is not considered too big.

Is a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring small?

No, a 2.5 carat cushion cut diamond ring is not considered small. The size of the diamond will vary depending on the finger it is worn on. Additionally, the cut of the diamond and the setting can also affect its perceived size.
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