Which Diamond Cut is Best for Maximising Brilliance?

When shopping for a diamond, one of the most sought-after qualities is brilliance – that captivating sparkle that catches the eye and makes a diamond truly shine.

In short: The round brilliant returns the most light of any diamond cut — 90%+ on an Excellent grade through its 57-58 facets — followed closely by the princess (58 facets, 80-85%), oval (56 facets, 75-80%) and radiant (70 facets, 80%). Step cuts (emerald, Asscher) prioritise clean reflection over sparkle. UK 2025 buyers pay £1,400-£1,800 for a 1.00ct lab-grown D/VS1 Excellent-cut round versus £6,500+ natural.

While many factors influence a diamond's brilliance, the cut is arguably the most important.

Understanding which diamond cut offers the best brilliance can help you choose a piece that truly stands out.

Let's explore the options and see which cut maximises that dazzling effect.

Understanding Diamond Brilliance

Before diving into specific cuts, it's important to understand what brilliance actually means.

Brilliance refers to the amount of white light that is reflected back from a diamond to the viewer’s eye.

This reflection gives the diamond its sparkle, making it appear lively and full of light.

A diamond’s ability to achieve maximum brilliance depends largely on its cut – the precise shape and arrangement of its facets.

The quality of the cut can significantly impact a diamond's brilliance, meaning that even a high-quality diamond can appear dull if it is poorly cut.

Factors such as cut grade, symmetry, and proportions play a vital role in determining how well the diamond will reflect light.