A radiant cut diamond is a popular type of diamond that has many facets on the crown and pavilion. These facets reflect light from all angles, which makes this cut very eye-catching. A radiant cut has 56 times more sparkle than an equivalent round brilliant-cut diamond.
The “radiant” in the name refers to the way light reflects off of these diamonds. Radiant cuts are available for any shape stone: princess, cushion, oval. If you’re looking for something new and different in your jewelry box then consider adding one of these beauties to it.
- The History Of Radiant Cut Diamonds
- What Are The Characteristics Of A Radiant Cut Diamond?
- The Different Radiant Cut Diamond Settings
- What To Look For When Purchasing A Radiant Cut Diamond
- What Are The Pros And Cons Of A Radiant Cut Diamond?
- Should You Buy A Radiant Cut Diamond?
- Where Should You Purchase A Radiant Cut Diamond?
- Conclusion
The History Of Radiant Cut Diamonds
In 1977, the Hentry Grossbard from New York created a diamond with 66 facets on its crown that is said to have all of the brilliance found in round cuts while also being square like traditional diamonds. The original radiant cut had 70 facets but after years of trial and error he settled for 66 which does not take away any sparkle or beauty.
What Are The Characteristics Of A Radiant Cut Diamond?
A diamond with a radiant cut has the weight concentrated near its center and is less thick on either side. The stone will have one noticeably longer triangular facet that reflects light to sparkle more than other cuts of gemstones.
This type of cut similarly refracts light as an octagon and is a favorite among those who want to create an antique-looking diamond. It also has less fire as compared with the other traditional cuts and may be preferred by people who find that too much brilliance can cause their eyes to hurt after prolonged periods.
Additionally, the design offers many advantages for jewelry retailers since they can use the same stone to create both rings and earrings. The radiant is also referred to as “octagonal cut” since the diamond shines from its center in a pattern that resembles an octagon shape.
When it comes to the cost, a radiant cut diamond will generally be less expensive than other types of diamonds on account of their lack of brilliance.
Due to their low weight feature which makes them perfect for rings, the radiant cut is commonly sought after by many who want to gift their loved ones. It can also be found in sizes of almost any size because it is an asymmetrical design that allows the stone to have eight facets on either side; this means they may be smaller than other types but are more likely to offer better clarity.
The Different Radiant Cut Diamond Settings
Prong Setting
A Prong Setting is when the diamond is set in a frame that has sharp edges. It will be typically surrounded by metal on all sides, with only small gaps around it to allow light to enter and reflect off of its surface. This type can vary depending on what metal or stones are being used.
Channel Setting
A Channel Setting is when the diamond is set in a frame that has rounded edges, and it usually does not have any metal on all four sides. The stone will be placed inside of an open tunnel with two smaller stones at either end to keep it from moving or falling out.
Bezel Setting
A Bezel Setting is when the diamond has a metal edge that wraps around it. This type of setting will have different variations, but they all provide security for the stone by allowing light to enter and reflect off some of its surfaces while also protecting it on either side with metals or other stones.
Pave Setting
Pave setting is most commonly used for creating a diamond ring. This type of setting will have small diamonds, usually white gold or platinum set around the edge and into the surface of the larger diamond in such a way that it appears to be one continuous row.
Tension Setting
Tension setting is when a diamond is held in place by two small prongs that are squeezed on either side to hold the stone securely. This type of setting can be used for both round and square diamonds but does not allow as much light into the diamond from behind it because of its size.
What To Look For When Purchasing A Radiant Cut Diamond
Cut
The cut of the diamond is one of its most important features. This refers to how well a diamond has been polished and reflects how much light will enter into it.
Clarity
A clear, flawless stone may be more valuable than an imperfectly shaped but clearer gemstone because fewer blemishes are seen with clarity as opposed to when looking for flaws.
Carat
Diamonds are measured by weight, so the bigger they are, the more expensive they will be. Radiant weight ranges from 6.0 mm to 9.5 mm.
Cost
The cost of a diamond can also vary based on the cut and clarity. However, the radiant cut is less costly than other cuts.
Appearance
A radiant-cut diamond is more likely to have smaller facets than other cuts such as an oval, pear, or round shape. This will make it appear brighter when light enters from different angles in relation to the person looking at it.
Shape Appeal
The shape of the diamond is a personal preference but it has been shown that most women prefer round cuts, while men are more likely to want a marquise cut.
Bowtie Effect
A bowtie effect is where light enters the diamond and when it exits, you can see two points of refraction. A radiant with a large bowtie region signifies that the stone is poorly cut. Looking for a sparkle in these regions will ensure that you get a good radiant worth your money.
Color
The color of a diamond is also important; you want to make sure that it’s not too dark or too light.
What Are The Pros And Cons Of A Radiant Cut Diamond?
Pros
- A radiant cut diamond is more likely to have smaller facets than other cuts such as an oval, pear, or round shape. This will make it appear brighter when light enters from different angles in relation to the person looking at it.
- It also has a large table which accentuates its size and weight.
Cons
- The brilliance may not be seen as much as in other cuts, because the diamond will have a higher crown. This is because more of it goes into reflecting light down towards you when you are looking at it from above.
Should You Buy A Radiant Cut Diamond?
Radiant cut diamonds are a popular style of diamonds because they are large and have high clarity. They also have some other benefits that you may not be aware of:
- A radiant diamond will reflect light at the viewer from above, which can accentuate its deep or shallow depth. This is good for those who want to show off the stone’s brilliance.
- Due to their size, radiant cut diamonds are more affordable than other cuts and can be an attractive choice for those with a lower cost budget on jewelry.
- The reflective quality of a radiant diamond makes it excellent for engagement rings because they will show off your love at every angle. Give this style a try if you’re looking for a diamond with “sparkle” and a vintage vibe.
Where Should You Purchase A Radiant Cut Diamond?
Many jewelers now carry this cut, but an internet search for “radiant cut diamond” should reveal a few good options. If you want to see more before making your purchase, you can visit their websites and learn about the different styles of radiant diamonds they offer. In case you might have more inquiries, you can contact their customer service for help.
Physical jewelry outlets will also show you the different cuts they have in store, but make sure to ask about their certification from a reputable company.
Conclusion
Radiant cut diamonds are a popular choice for many diamond buyers. They’re more affordable than other cuts, but still, maintain the same quality and sparkle that you’d expect from any high-end stone. The radiant cut is also considered to be having a “vintage vibe” because of its vintage shape and style which can make it stand out in the modern world of cut stones. Luckily, you can always find a jeweler to help you pick out the right stone and get it set in one of their signature settings.
The radiant cuts diamonds are perfect for people that want something affordable but still maintain quality. The best part is that they’re also available with many different shapes like round, oval, pear, marquise, and more. You should never have to worry about not being able to find the perfect cut for you because they can be tailored perfectly depending on your needs.
Be sure to ask about their certification from a reputable company before purchasing a radiant cut diamond from either an online or a physical store.