At first sight, it may seem that emerald cut and radiant cut diamonds are pretty similar. But in fact, they are different. To avoid any confusion, let’s take a closer look at the aspects in which these two diamond cuts significantly differ.
What is an Emerald Cut?
Emerald cut diamond looks like a rectangle with cropped corners. It is cut in a unique manner known as a step cut with long narrow facets and a large table.
The emerald cut was created for emerald gemstones in the 1500s. However, diamond cutters took notice of this shape as it reduces the pressure during the cutting process and therefore prevents chips.
What is a Radiant Cut?
Radiant cut diamonds have a square or rectangle shape with cropped corners. It’s the first square cut (the second being princess cut) that have complete brilliant-cut facets pattern on crown and pavilion.
Radiant cut diamonds are one of the most faceted stones available on the market.
Emerald Cut vs Radiant Cut Diamonds
Although their profiles may look similar, the emerald cut and the radiant cut are different in how they are shaped and how they look when worn.
Cut
The step cut stones feature parallel facets, they have a clean and sleek look and it is easier to see their pattern.
In comparison, the brilliant-cut diamonds have more sparkle and brilliance while facets pattern is not that easy distinguishable for an untrained eye.
Facets
In other words, radiant cut diamonds don’t look as “linear” as emerald-cut diamonds.
Brilliance and Sparkle
Radiant cut facets are shaped to maximize the stone’s brilliance and sparkle. While the facets of emerald diamonds are not cut with this goal in mind.
That’s why if you compare these two cuts, you will notice that the former has more brilliance and sparkle than the latter.
Clarity
These two cuts significantly differ in how visible their flaws are.
If you compare two diamonds of the same clarity grade, the radiant will less likely have any noticeable imperfections, as it’s brilliance and sparkle will mask them.
In contrast, flaws in the emerald cut diamond are more likely to be visible due to the relatively lower brilliance.
Choosing Between Radiant Cut and Emerald Cut Diamonds
The emerald cut is a good choice for those who prefer rectangular shape diamonds with a clean and sleek look. Just make sure you choose a stone that has a high enough clarity grade (VS1/VS2 or higher) and a good colour grade (at least H or G) so that the stone doesn’t have noticeable flaws and tints.
In case you love rectangular shaped diamonds but want it to be more brilliant and sparkly, a radiant cut diamond may be a perfect option for you.
