Radiant vs. Emerald Cut Diamonds: Choose Your Fighter
When it comes to choosing a diamond, there’s no denying that the shape is going to be a big deal. It’s one of the first things that grabs your attention, it’s the shape, also known as the cut, that influences how the stone plays with light and, ultimately, how it makes you feel when you look at it.
If you know you enjoy a rectangular shape but are still deciding whether you prefer sparkle or flash, let us present you with the options of the radiant cut and the emerald cut. From afar, they might seem similar, especially if you look at ones of the same size and shape, but these two cuts offer entirely different experiences. Let’s see which one sets your heart aflutter.
Why are radiant diamonds so popular?
Radiant: The Sparkling Sensation
The radiant cut lives up to its name in style. This cut is all about brilliance, bringing fire and energy to a diamond in a way that not many other cuts do. This particular cut was designed relatively recently, in 1977, by Henry Grossbard, a master diamond cutter. He wanted to combine the suave elegance of the emerald shape with the brilliance of the round cut. A very good idea, indeed. The result is a stunning diamond that boasts 70 facets that reflect light in an absolutely dazzling dance.
Fun Fact: The radiant cut diamond was the first square or rectangular cut to feature brilliant cut facets on both the crown (the top) and the pavilion (the bottom), making it a true pioneer in diamond design.
Why are emerald diamonds so popular?
Emerald: A Smooth Operator
Sophistication and everlasting appeal flow from every facet of the emerald cut diamond. This silhouette has roots that go back centuries and was originally used exclusively for (you guessed it) emeralds. It features a rectangular shape with cut corners and long, step cut facets that create the famed ‘hall of mirrors’ effect. Unlike the radiant cut, which sparkles like mad, the emerald cut is all about clarity and an understated feel. It showcases the diamond’s quality by highlighting its depth and purity rather than relying on intense brilliance.
Fun Fact: The emerald cut was a favourite among Old Hollywood stars, including the iconic Grace Kelly, whose 10.47ct emerald cut diamond engagement ring from Prince Rainier of Monaco remains one of the most iconic pieces of jewellery in history.
What’s the difference between a radiant and emerald cut diamond?
The Shape of Things
Both radiant and emerald cut diamonds can be found in rectangular and square shapes, which means fans of the geometric look might gravitate to both these diamonds when making their engagement ring decision. However, despite having similar outlines, their appearances are actually so, so different. Let’s take a closer look.
The radiant cut has clipped corners and brilliant facets, which makes it a great choice for anyone who wants a diamond that catches the eye from every angle. It’s like the extrovert at a party – always shining, always sharing dazzling anecdotes and always the centre of attention.
The emerald cut, on the other hand, is like the introverted intellectual of the diamond world. Its large, open table and step cut facets mean that it doesn’t sparkle as much as it gleams. It’s a diamond that demands to be admired up close, where its impressive clarity and depth can be fully appreciated.
What determines the quality of a radiant or emerald diamond?
The Sparkle Factor
Here’s where the two cuts really differ. If you’re after a diamond with maximum sparkle, the radiant cut is your best bet. Those 70 facets ensure that light bounces around inside the diamond like a pinball in an arcade, creating a dazzling display to look at.
In contrast, the emerald cut’s step facets paint a more subdued, reflective picture. Think of it as a quiet lake at dawn, where the light gently ripples across the surface rather than exploding into a million points. The emerald cut isn’t about being ostentatious, it’s about quiet luxury.
Fun fact: To help visualise these cuts even more, let’s try and bring them to life. If the radiant cut were a person, it would be Rihanna, Miley Cyrus or Marilyn Monroe. Bold, brilliant and impossible to ignore. The emerald cut, though, would be more like Audrey Hepburn, Celine Dion or Beyoncè. Graceful, classic and mesmerising, without needing to jump out and grab your attention.
Clarity and Colour Quality Considerations
Because of its ‘hall of mirrors’ effect, the emerald cut is slightly less forgiving when it comes to colour and inclusions – those tiny imperfections you find inside a diamond. If you’d like to avoid them being noticeable, we recommend prioritising a higher clarity grade. Colour is more visible in this cut too, so opting for a higher colour grade will make for a more spectacular effect.
The radiant cut’s brilliant facets are much better at disguising inclusions and slight colour tints. If you’re looking for a diamond that gives you a bit more wiggle room in terms of clarity and colour, the radiant cut is a smart choice.
Our diamond experts can talk you through all of this in more detail and find the stone that’s best for you.
Versatility Rules
In terms of style, both cuts are incredibly versatile. The radiant cut’s bold sparkle makes it a super popular choice for engagement rings, particularly for people who love an eye-catching effect. It pairs well with just about any setting and looks fabulous with vintage and contemporary designs.
The emerald cut, with its refined lines, is perfect for someone who appreciates classic beauty. It’s often seen in solitaires or with side stones that enhance its geometric symmetry. This cut is also a favourite amongst those who love a vintage aesthetic, as it takes you back to an era of old-world glamour.
Fun Fact: Can you say ‘Houdini’? Due to its elongated shape, both radiant and emerald cut diamonds can make the wearer’s finger look longer – a perfect optical illusion.
