Diamond Face-Off: Emerald vs. Radiant
Emerald and radiant cuts are two popular yet distinct diamond cuts, each offering unique qualities and appeal. To help you choose between them, we’ll explore the defining characteristics of each cut.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
The emerald cut diamond dates back to the 15th century when stonecutters originally developed this cut for emerald gemstones. During the 1920s and 1930s, also known as the Art Deco era, the emerald cut rose in popularity. Emerald cut diamonds’ signature feature is their “hall of mirrors” effect where the long facets reflect off each other.
3.01 carat Emerald Cut Diamond Super Slim Ring
4.1 carat Emerald Cut Lab Diamond Three-Stone Ring
Radiant Cut Diamonds
In 1977, Henry Grossbard introduced the radiant cut, a diamond cut that masterfully combined the elegance of the emerald cut with the brilliance of the round brilliant cut. The result was a diamond with the sleek, rectangular shape of an emerald cut, enhanced by the fire and sparkle of a round brilliant. The radiant cut is now considered the most brilliant of all diamond shapes and cuts.
4.50 Radiant Cut Two-Tone Solitaire Signature Wrap Ring
3.81 carat Radiant Cut Lab Diamond Three-Stone Ring
Ratio Comparison: Emerald vs. Radiant
When selecting an emerald cut diamond, length-to-width ratio is important to note, as it can dramatically impact the stone’s visual appearance. Emerald cuts can range from a ratio of around 1:1.3 for a more compact look to 1:1.6 and above for an elongated, rectangular appearance. The closer you get to 1:1, the more your emerald cut will begin to look like an Asscher.
Most radiants you see are elongated and rectangular, however, they can also be square shaped. An elongated radiant cut typically has a ratio between 1:1.3 and 1:1.4, creating a more rectangular appearance. If you prefer a square radiant, a ratio closer to 1:1 or slightly above is best.
Cut Comparison: Emerald vs. Radiant
The emerald cut typically has around 57 facets. It features step cut faceting, characterized by long, rectangular facets that run parallel to the edges of the stone and an open culet. This arrangement is how the “hall of mirrors” effect comes into play, reflecting a subtle but elegant flash of sparkle. This faceting pattern allows for larger flashes of sparkle when reflecting light.
The radiant cut combines the elements of emerald cuts and round brilliants, offering maximized sparkle. Radiants typically have 70 facets, giving it more brilliance and fire when compared to an emerald. Its intricate faceting allows for more light to be reflected in the diamond from multiple different angles, giving off maximum sparkle. Radiants are a popular option for those who want the shape of an emerald but want maximum sparkle.
The Quality
Emerald cut diamonds are clearer in appearance, so we recommend a higher clarity grade as inclusions may be more easily noticeable. In this case, we recommend opting for a VS2 grade or above, depending on the diamond. When it comes to color, there is more flexibility. For the best quality, however, we recommend staying within the D to J range. When it comes to an emerald’s clarity, it is a bit easier to see inclusions because of its clearer appearance.
Radiant cuts feature multiple facets, so they are great at hiding both inclusions and color. Its design helps to mask inclusions and make them less noticeable in comparison to that of emerald cut. Because of this, we would recommend a minimum clarity grade of SI2, only if the stone is eye-clean. If you’re considering a lower color grade, this might be the stone for you. Its faceting allows for color to be dispersed throughout the stone and gives flexibility for a color grade as low as a J.
Which Would You Choose?
Emerald and radiant cut diamonds are similar in shape but have particular characteristics that make them different. Making an appointment will help empower you to make an informed decision and, of course, you’ll be able to view gemstones from our extensive loose stone inventory in-person and side by side.
In the meantime, you might want to check out some of our other educational materials or look through our Instagram or Pinterest accounts for more dazzling diamond inspiration!
