Princess Cut Diamond Versus Radiant Cut

Princess cut diamond versus radiant cut diamond: Choosing between these diamond cuts is often a difficult decision because both have great light reflection. If you want the most sparkle, then the radiant cut wins out over the princess cut.

Which diamond shape is best for you?

In 1977, Henry Grossbard introduced his patented radiant cut and revolutionized the diamond cutting industry. He created the radiant cut in an effort to combine the best qualities of the round and emerald cuts.

• Emerald cut: Grossbard recognized the beauty of the outer lines and cut corners found in the crown of an emerald cut.
• Round cut: Grossbard’s radiant cut also incorporates the round cut’s triangular faceting.

By using both the emerald and diamond cuts’ best qualities, Grossbard was able to create more sparkle in his radiant cut. Grossbard’s radiant cut is a hybrid of the emerald and round cuts creating a ‘brilliantized step cut’ diamond.

There are significant differences between a radiant cut diamond and a princess cut diamond. The most prominent difference is the way each cut reflects light.

While the crown of a radiant cut diamond is similar to the crown of a princess cut diamond, that’s where the similarities stop.

• A radiant cut is missing the corners referred to as sharp edges. In fact, the GIA identifies the radiant cut as a cut-cornered square mixed cut.
• Crown is slightly higher than a princess cut
• Smaller table than a princess cut
• Depth may be slightly less than princess cut –depends on ratio of length to width
• No vulnerable corners
• Step cuts
• Brilliant cuts
• When looking down from top, reflected light appears to move in a circular pattern. This allows more light to enter and more ways for it to be reflected out.
• Can be squarish or rectangular in overall shape
• Fewer radiant diamonds in the market, not as well known as princess cut

The princess cut (quadrillion cut) was invented by Robert J. Wueste. This cut is designed to utilize more of the rough diamond while giving a sparkle that is close to the brilliance of a radiant cut. Features include:

• Square diamond shape with sharp uncut edges
• Center appears to have a four pointed star or X created by the facets and light reflection. This is created by contrast of dark and light or linear life.
• Vertically cut pavilion and crown facets
• Typically has 76 cut facets
• Less expensive typically – many times one rough diamond can yield two princess cut diamonds
• First fancy cut to receive an AGS rating in 2005
  • Most princess cut diamonds don’t qualify for the new cut grade since the average cutters have traditionally emphasized retaining the diamond’s weight when cutting. This allows for a higher profit margin.
  • The majority of the public is not aware of this new grading and for obvious reasons few jewelry stores are educating customers about the new AGS rating for princess cuts and the possibility that comparatively they could be purchasing a now inferior princess cut.
  • Diamond cutters have not altered the way they cut princess diamonds because the large amount of waste the new AGS rating requires means less profit. Until the public demands princess cut diamonds adhering to the new AGS rating, cutters will continue as they have in the past.

The choice of whether to buy a princess cut diamond or a radiant cut diamond is a personal one. If you prefer clean straight outer lines then the princess cut will give you sharp corners. Those who enjoy a unique design will like the cut corners and extra facets the radiant cut diamond offers.

There are many advantages to viewing and selecting your ring in person:

• You get to ask questions
• Try on ring to see which style looks best on your finger
• Examine ring closely and recognize any diamond flaws and inclusions

Whichever style of diamond you choose, you’ll want to examine it closely to judge the quality. The dilemma of a princess cut diamond versus radiant cut is easier when you educate yourself.

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