Radiant cut diamonds are becoming an increasingly popular shape due to their maximum sparkle. The cut is unique in that it is cut to give maximum sparkle, or what we call - brilliance and fire . Think of fire as literally seeing fireworks of colour bursting from inside the stone, created when enough facets are cut in the correct way. The radiant cut has 70 facets (flat edges) making it perfect for a solitaire setting as this allows the beauty of the stone to shine through. Intrigued to know more about this distinctive shape that lives up to its name? Keep reading on…
Does a radiant cut hide imperfections?
We’ve touched upon the facets that make up a radiant cut. Not only do they create sparkle, they can be wonderful for concealing inclusions (internal marks in a stone). The many sharp corners of the facet create a sort of optical illusion, taking the eye away from any marks and imperfections. So while technically they aren’t hiding any of those imperfections, they draw the eye away from them.
Radiant cut vs emerald cut
Relatively similar in their rectangle shape, however distinguishable by their faceting patterns. Radiant cut is deeply faceted and has a crushed ice look while emerald cut has a step cut facet pattern that is extremely clear and almost like a pyramid.The emerald cut was popularised during the 20s, and is commonly seen in vintage jewellery pieces from the Art Deco period. The radiant cut is fairly new (around 30 years old) though it has quickly risen to the top of jewellery popularity charts.
Emerald cut stones have step cuts around the edge (think of these as literal steps). While radiant cut stones have cuts in a similar placement, rather than flat cuts around the edge, they are triangular and kite-shaped, allowing more surface for light to reflect and bounce in the stone. This bouncing of light is what creates that signature sparkle.
Relatively similar in their rectangle shape, however distinguishable by their faceting patterns. Radiant cut is deeply faceted and has a crushed ice look while emerald cut has a step cut facet pattern that is extremely clear and almost like a pyramid.The emerald cut was popularised during the 20s, and is commonly seen in vintage jewellery pieces from the Art Deco period. The radiant cut is fairly new (around 30 years old) though it has quickly risen to the top of jewellery popularity charts.
Emerald cut stones have step cuts around the edge (think of these as literal steps). While radiant cut stones have cuts in a similar placement, rather than flat cuts around the edge, they are triangular and kite-shaped, allowing more surface for light to reflect and bounce in the stone. This bouncing of light is what creates that signature sparkle.
Radiant cut moissanite vs lab-grown diamond
At Cullen Jewellery we deal with lab-grown diamonds, sapphire and moissanite , and have radiant cut engagement rings in all types of stone. While lab-grown stones have wonderful environmental benefits compared to mined stones, there are some other considerations for choosing your ideal stone.
Moissanite has a higher refractive index, so when light enters a stone, it bends more and sparkles more brightly. This is another factor complimented beautifully by the qualities of a radiant cut. This is what gives that rainbow appearance that can be contrasted with a lab diamond's signature clear white, grey and blue sparkle. Our Radiant Beauty moissanite stones have a VVSI-2 grading, meaning the stones are very very slightly included. So any inclusions will be invisible to the naked eye.
What is the best wedding band pairing for a radiant cut diamond?
Radiant cuts pair beautifully in any setting and with any wedding band, though some smart style choices can transform the stone according to your aesthetic. For example, those with a minimal, quiet luxury aesthetic can go for a solitaire setting engagement ring paired with a simple pavé band. Those who like chunky, statement pieces can go for a cigar band engagement ring , or a bezel set radiant cut , paired with an infinity style band.
At Cullen Jewellery our eternity wedding bands are like nothing you've seen before. While we can satisfy a taste for classic styles , we also have bands at the other end of the spectrum, like our Lana Round and Marquise Accent Wedding Ring, with alternating round and marquise stones.
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Summary
Radiant cut engagement rings lend themselves to any and all budgets. While you might be focusing on a lab-grown stone, or a lower clarity, the way lab grown diamond and moissanite radiants sparkle and tend to hide imperfections means there won't be any visible compromises on your dream ring, making it the perfect choice if you are a lover of a more rectangular stone shape. To speak to our team in more detail about radiant cuts, and our full range – book an in-person or virtual appointment here .
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