What is a Radiant Cut Diamond?

What is a radiant cut diamond?

A radiant cut diamond is a square or rectangular-shaped diamond gemstone with a brilliant-cut facet pattern on the crown and pavilion. Developed by Henry Grossbard in 1977, the radiant cut combines the emerald "step-cut" and the round "brilliant cut", producing one of the most dazzling sparkles on a square or rectangular gemstone.
To see a stunning example of a radiant cut on one of Love & Promise Jewelers’ own pieces, we recommend looking into our 2.12cts Rectangle Radiant Teal & Lime Sapphire.

Radiant cut stones are are typically cut with 70 facets, enhancing their overall brilliance and fire, rivaled only by the Round Brilliant cut. The beveled corners also protect the gemstone from damage. Overall, the radiant cut showcases the intricacy and sparkle of the gemstone, while retaining high durability.

Examples of radiant cut rings

Engagement and wedding rings with radiant cut gemstones have become popular for both their shape and brilliance. Here are a few rings from our catalog designed with radiant cuts.
From our premium end of radiant cut rings, the Rosados Box Skinny Nancy 9x7mm & Gabriella 14kt White Gold Radiant F1- Moissanite and Diamonds Wedding Set is the most lavish way to celebrate your special day. The skinny band combined with the presence of the radiant moissanite creates a dynamic of modern elegance.

For a similar but more intricate look, the Rosados Box Brianna 8x6mm 14kt White Gold Radiant F1- Moissanite and Diamonds Halo Engagement Ring offers a classic vintage piece complete with a detailed halo.

And for those who want a diamond-free ring, we offer the Skinny Nancy 9x7mm & Judy 14kt White Gold Radiant F1- Moissanite and Blue Sapphire Wedding Set. This beautiful wedding set is similar to the first option, but is accompanied with a blue sapphire wedding band for a unique and memorable pairing.

What shape is a radiant cut diamond?

Radiant cuts will always be a square or rectangle—with variations in its length-to-width ratio, depth, girdle, and culet. They will almost always have beveled corners to protect it from extensive wear and tear.

What is the difference between a radiant and princess cut diamond?

While both radiant and princess cuts feature rectangle and square shapes, the two differ greatly upon closer inspection. First, the princess cut has sharp, 90-degree angled corners, creating a highly geometric look. On the other hand, the radiant cut has slightly cropped corners.
Below is a comparison of a radiant (top) and princess cut (bottom).
 
Top: Rosados Box Skinny Nancy 9x7mm 14kt White Gold Radiant F1- Moissanite Tulip Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring
Bottom: Rosados Box Florentine 7mm 14kt Yellow Gold Princess FB Moissanite Tulip Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring
More specifically about the gemstone cut, the princess cut has a vertically cut pavilion with modern gemstones including over 70 chevron-shaped facets. The radiant cut features a higher crown and smaller table, and will always feature exactly 70 facets. This results in the radiant cut displaying a greater brilliance.
Overall, the princess cut is generally more popular because of its carat weight retention and affordability. However, the radiant cut is often found to be more durable and brilliant.

Are radiant cut diamonds more expensive?

As with all diamonds, the price of a radiant cut diamond is influenced by the 4 C’s. Having said that, however, the radiant cut is one of the most affordable cuts, second only to the emerald cut. Radiant cuts are also effective at hiding inclusions and enhancing color, leaving buyers to focus on the other two C’s involved: cut and carat.
Radiant cut diamonds have retained its cult status ever since it first entered the mainstream in the 80’s. While the princess cut has built on the same design, the radiant cut remains patented to this day, creating a sparkle that shines brighter and lasts longer than other square or rectangle cuts.
The multifaceted radiant cut not only highlights the intricacies and brilliance of gemstones, it also makes the gemstones highly durable throughout time. For this reason, the radiant cut makes for an exceptional engagement and wedding ring choice, perfect for representing a long lasting love.