DianSheng Diamond V2

DianSheng Diamond V2

DianSheng Diamond V2 is a shape-shifting puzzle, a shape mod based on the 3x3 cube. When solved, it looks like a cut diamond with triangular and trapezoidal faces. After a few moves it loses that shape and starts to look like a jumble of irregular blocks. The second version is stickerless. The colors are tiles fused into the pieces, and you can choose between two body versions: Black and Transparent.

How to solve the diamond cube

The mechanism works just like a regular 3x3, so the methods and algorithms you already know are all you need. The challenge lies in the shape. The pieces differ in form, so while solving you have to recognize them not only by color but also by geometry. According to the distributor's description, you also need to keep track of center orientation, which you don't have to do on a standard cube. If you can solve a 3x3 with the layer-by-layer method, you can handle the Diamond. At first you just need to get used to the fact that the cube doesn't keep its cube shape while you're solving it.

What's new in V2

• Tiles instead of stickers. The colored parts are embedded in the plastic and sit flush with the surface, so nothing peels off or wears away with frequent solving. The first version of the Diamond had stickers.
• Flat contact surfaces. The pieces slide smoothly over each other, so turning is light and you don't have to fight the mechanism.
• Core with room for lube. The concave center of the core holds lube, so the feel stays the same for longer.

This cube has no magnets and no UV coating. It's not a model for setting times, but a puzzle to solve for fun and to add to your collection.

Black or Transparent?

The mechanism is the same in both versions. The black body gives a strong contrast with the tile colors and nicely highlights the diamond shape. The transparent one lets you look inside and see how the pieces are arranged.

Who is it for?

For people who can solve a 3x3 and want to try something other than yet another speedcubing cube, as well as for shape mod collectors. The Diamond V2 also makes a great gift for a child who can already solve a 3x3 cube. If you've never solved a 3x3, start with a classic cube, because on the Diamond it will be harder to understand what's going on.

Specifications

• Type: shape-shifting puzzle (3x3 shape mod)
• Manufacturer: DianSheng
• Manufacturer code: X18
• Finish: tiles fused into the pieces (stickerless), no UV
• Magnets: none
• Cube weight: approx. 62 g
• Body colors: Black, Transparent