Radiant vs. Emerald Cut Diamonds: Choose Your Fighter

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.

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.

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.