Can’t Choose Between Emerald or Radiant Cut Diamonds?
Two very similar diamond cuts are the emerald and radiant cuts. It is important to know what is similar and what is the difference between emerald and radiant cut diamonds.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
The distinctive emerald cut is used in about three percent of diamond cuts. This makes it unique and attractive for someone who wants a different look that with the usual round cut. A nice feature of the emerald cut is that it has a larger upper surface area compared to a round cut for a diamond of the same carat weight. This means that you can get a larger-appearing diamond at a lower price. The emerald cut is elongated as well which can make your finger look longer and more slender.
Radiant Cut Diamonds
The radiant cut was invented and first used in 1977 which makes it the most modern diamond cut. It combines features of the round brilliant cut and the emerald cut. This cut has seventy facets which make it only slightly less brilliant than the round brilliant cut. A nice feature of brilliant cut diamonds is that their beveled corners are less likely to chip than with other cuts.
Drawbacks of the Emerald Cut
The larger upper surface area may make the emerald cut look larger but it also makes imperfections more obvious. This is especially an issue with stones of lower color and clarity grades. Yellowish coloring that would be less obvious in another cut may be all too obvious with a poorly chosen emerald cut stone. The step cut used for this gem results in less internal brilliance and fire than with the brilliant cut. A better choice may well be a radiant cut.
What Is the Difference between Emerald and Radiant Cut Diamonds?
The radiant cut is typically rectangular and a rectangular emerald cut will have beveled or shortened corners. Because both have cut corners they are both good choices for an active woman.
However, the facets of emerald cut diamonds and radiant cut diamonds are different. Radiant cut facets are triangular while emerald cut facets are parallel. The result is a big difference in sparkle, radiance, and fire. The name “radiant cut” is an accurate description of this modern diamond cut. While an emerald cut stone will have an attractive soft glow, a radiant cut diamond will have more sparkle and fire. If you want a muted and softer appearance, an emerald cut is a good choice but if you want a gem that sparkles, choose the radiant cut.
Emerald cut diamonds are more likely to show their imperfections than a radiant cut gem. This is especially true with larger diamonds in the one, two, or three carat range. This is partially because of the nature of the cut but also because the emerald cut displays more upper surface area.
Which is Better, the Emerald Cut or the Radiant Cut
The old saying that beauty is in the eye of the beholder really does apply here. Many women love the emerald cut for its elongated shape, durability in rough use, and its soft glow. Others want to see their diamond sparkle, If you are in the second group, the radiant cut is a better choice.