Emerald vs Radiant Cut Diamond Faceoff

Comparing Rectangular Shapes: Emerald Cut vs Radiant Cut

If you are wondering what makes these shapes different, (or what they even are), look no further! By the end of this post you’ll have a better idea of which one might be right for you - and a few settings to go with it!

First, let’s talk similarities...

Emerald cut diamonds and elongated radiant cuts can look similar in that they are both a long rectangular shape with parallel sides. They also have beveled, or cut corners which will make them more durable and less prone to chipping.  They are both fancy shape diamonds that have their own unique faceting style which is also the major reason why they look so different.

Now, A few reasons they are different...

Emerald Cut diamonds are classified as being a step cut, meaning the facets are arranged in a parallel fashion.  They also possess a large open table so when you look straight in to these fancy shape diamonds, you can clearly see through the stone. For this reason, it would be a good idea to consider purchasing a stone that has a higher clarity grade in the VS2 or higher range.  It does not have additional brilliant facets (which almost all other shape diamonds have) that will hide any natural inclusions.  In addition, because of this faceting style there is less sparkle and concentration of color in these diamonds so you are able to get away with a lower color grade (I-J) that will still appear colorless face-up. While they are less fiery than a brilliant cut stone, they give off dramatic flashes of light and have a very elegant appeal.   

On the other hand, Radiant Cut diamonds have a great deal more sparkle and the triangular facets are arranged in a brilliant cut style.  Radiant cuts take on the vivid fire and brilliance of a Round Brilliant diamond but in a square or rectangle shape with cut corners.  Because of this faceting style it does show more concentration of color while making most inclusions, quite the opposite when compared to the emerald cut diamonds. This beautiful fancy shape is popular because it definitely speaks for itself with its dazzling appeal and modern feel.  This shape is suited for someone who prefers a more linear shape while maintaining the wow factor of a brilliant cut diamond.

Emerald Cut diamonds are typically found in more classic and traditional style settings, such as three-stone designs with tapered baguette side diamonds like VNR-13073 from our website (see photo to the left).  Other side-stone possibilities include tapered bullets, step-cut trapezoids or even a matching pair of emerald cuts.  This elegant diamond cut has also gained notoriety of late in our delicate micro-pave designs like RS-197. Not as common, but equally beautiful, is a halo design because of the contrast created from the large flashes emanating from the center stone versus the small sparkle created by the surrounding pave diamonds.  Using an emerald cut diamond in one of our modern pave designs is a great way for someone to combine classic and modern into one gorgeous ring

Radiant cut diamonds look great in nearly any setting design you can think of from classic three-stone designs with trapezoid or trillion-cut side stones to any micro-pave halo or non-halo style you can think of.  While not as popular as a cushion cut, many people find this shape to provide even greater sparkle and consider it a great alternative for someone seeking a more unique appearance.  See this popular RS-119 design from our website shown to the right.

Choosing which shape to go with for your engagement ring really comes down to a matter of preference.  Weigh the pro's and con's of each and think about which one will suit your style best.  At Lauren B we carry a large inventory of certified diamonds in all shapes and our custom designs can be made to fit any center diamond.  The options are endless and the choice is yours!