Radiant Cut Diamond
The Radiant cut is a vibrant and unique step cut with stunning brilliance and signature trimmed edges. It hasn’t been about for long, coming onto the scene almost 40 years ago. If you have a small budget, a Radiant shape diamond is an option you can consider because you are able to go for a lower clarity, as the cut hides inclusions well. If you are looking for a striking engagement ring, this is a good choice.
In short: The radiant cut is a rectangular or square cut combining emerald cut's cropped corners with the brilliant facet structure — 70 facets total, invented by Henry Grossbard in 1977. Aim for length-to-width 1.00-1.05 (square) or 1.20-1.50 (elongated). It hides inclusions better than emerald cuts: pick SI1 for value. Mohs 10. Lab-grown radiants run 60-80% below natural equivalents at identical 4Cs grading.
01
AN INTRODUCTION
The Radiant cut is unusual yet very versatile at the same time. It boasts the stunning brilliance that is associated with both Round and Princess cuts, which is why it is a popular option for engagement rings. It is one of the most brilliant out of all of the rectangular and square shaped stones because of the extra facets, which allow for more light to be dispersed.
02
FEATURES
The length to width ratio, of course, depends on whether you go for a square or rectangular Radiant. In regards to the former, ratios can be anything from 1.05 to 1.50. However, if you go for a square diamond the ratio will be between 1.00 and 1.05. The Radiant cut is known for its distinctive trimmed edges and it is compromised of 70 facets. Sometimes, in the more rectangular Radiant diamonds, a bow tie effect can occur, although this is not as common as in the likes of Pear, Marquise and Oval diamonds.
03
BUYING ADVICE
One of the great things about the Radiant cut is the fact that it hides inclusions well, so you can get away with going for a slightly lower clarity grading if need be. As this cut is a nice bridge between a Princess and a Cushion cut, it looks stunning when set with both square and rounded cornered diamonds. You should opt for a four-pronged setting when buying a
Radiant diamond ring, as this will ensure the centre stone is safely and securely held while also maximising light access to the diamond.
04
HISTORY
Before the Radiant cut came about, all diamonds that had step cut edges or were square shaped did not have a lot of brilliance. Researchers worked tirelessly to try and find a way to fix this problem, and Henry Grossbard came up with it. In 1977, he designed the first Radiant cut. It was the first stone to rival the likes of Pear and Oval in terms of brilliance.
This revolutionised the way rectangular and square stones were perceived in the industry. If that was not enough, this diamond shape was the first to have a brilliant facet pattern applied to the pavilion as well as the crown.
