Two of the most popular cuts of a diamond are the radiant cut and the cushion cut.
Radiant cut vs cushion cut: while they may look similar at first glance, there are distinct differences between the two in the way they look and feel.
The radiant cut is known for its brilliant, fiery sparkle, while the cushion cut is beloved for its soft, romantic charm. Whether you're a fan of modern elegance or vintage allure, there's a cut out there that's perfect for you.
Key Takeaways
- A cushion cut diamond has a square shape with rounded, curved corners hence looks like a couch cushion and is known for its vintage and classic feel.
- Radiant cut diamonds, on the other hand, have a square or rectangular shape with beveled corners and offer the most brilliance due to their 70 facets.
- If you are looking for a diamond with maximum sparkle and brilliance, a radiant-cut diamond is the perfect choice. If you prefer a more vintage and classic look, a cushion cut diamond is the way to go
- A radiant diamond has 70 facets while a cushion diamond has 58 facets
- Regardless of the cut, it's essential to choose a high-quality diamond with excellent clarity and color to ensure a beautiful sparkle that will last a lifetime.
What Is The Difference Between Cushion And Radiant Cut?
Diamonds are a popular choice for engagement rings and other jewelry, and choosing the right diamond is not easy.
Two popular choices for diamond cuts are radiant cut and cushion cut. A diamond shape is one of the most important factors to consider when making a purchase, and it can affect the overall appearance and brilliance of the stone.
Shape
A Cushion Cut Diamond
Cushion-cut diamonds are known for their rounded, curved corners with square shapes hence resemble a cushion or a couch.
This cut was originally created in the 19th century and has since undergone many modifications as diamond-cutting technology has advanced.
Most cushion-cut diamonds have 58 facets, though Leo diamonds have as many as 66. It allows for a good amount of sparkle and brilliance. The cushion diamond is a popular choice for vintage-inspired engagement rings and has a romantic and classic feel.
A Radiant Cut Diamond
Radiant cut diamonds, on the other hand, have a more modern look with a square or rectangular shape and beveled corners.
This cut was developed in the 1970s and has become increasingly popular due to its brilliance and versatility.
Radiant cut diamonds have 70 facets, which is more than most other diamond cuts, allowing for the most amount of light to be reflected and creating a dazzling sparkle.
This cut is often chosen for engagement rings that are both classic and modern in design.
Personal Preference for Engagement Rings Is Key
When it comes to choosing between radiant cut and cushion cut diamonds, personal preference is key.
Cushion cut diamonds are great for those who love a vintage or romantic look, while radiant cut diamonds are perfect for those who want a modern cut diamond and a timeless look.
Also, it's important to consider factors such as budget, carat weight, and clarity when choosing a diamond.
Cushion Cut Vs Radiant Cut Diamond: Sparkle
When it comes to the sparkle of diamonds, the cut plays a significant role. The cut determines the diamond's ability to reflect light and create a dazzling sparkle.
Radiant Cuts
Radiant cut diamonds have 70 facets, which is more than most other diamond cuts, allowing for the most amount of light to be reflected and creating a stunning sparkle.
On the other hand, cushion-cut diamonds usually have 58 facets, which is still a good amount but less than the radiant cut.
The many facets of radiant cuts allow light to enter from different angles, bounce off the facets, and create a beautiful sparkle that catches the eye. The beveled corners of radiant cut diamonds also contribute to the overall brilliance and sparkle of the stone.
Cushion Cuts
Cushion cut diamonds with rounded corners, on the other hand, offer a more subtle sparkle due to their fewer facets. However, the cushion diamond can have a soft and romantic look that is perfect for vintage-inspired jewelry.
Color and Clarity
When it comes to color and clarity, the radiant diamond has an advantage over the cushion diamond. The radiant cut's brilliant faceting and geometric shape help to hide inclusions and color tints, making it a better choice for those who prioritize color and clarity.
On the other hand, the cushion cut's softer edges and larger facets tend to emphasize any flaws, making it more important to choose a higher-quality stone.
The decision between radiant and cushion cut diamonds comes down to personal preference and the specific qualities you value most in a diamond.
FAQs
Is Radiant or Cushion Better?
When it comes to a diamond cut, the elongated radiant cut tends to offer better brilliance than the elongated cushion cut.
This is because the radiant cut has more facets, which allows it to reflect light more efficiently. Also, the radiant cut's sharp corners and edges create a more modern and edgy look.
Furthermore, radiant cuts can hide flaws in the diamond better than cushion cuts due to their faceting style. Again, the choice between cushion cuts and radiant cuts comes down to personal preference and style.
What Looks Bigger Cushion or Radiant?
Cushion diamonds have larger facets than radiant diamonds, which can make them appear larger to the eye. However, radiant cuts have more facets overall, giving them greater brilliance and fire.
Which One Sparkles More? The Radiant Cut or Cushion Cut?
Both cushion and radiant cut diamonds sparkle beautifully, but the radiant sparkle more due to its higher number of facets - 70 compared to the cushion cut's 58.
However, the actual amount of sparkle also depends on other factors, including the diamond's cut quality and individual characteristics.
Should You Buy A Radiant Or Cushion Cut Diamond Engagement Ring?
Buy a radiant diamond engagement ring. While both have their merits, a radiant diamond may be the better choice due to its superior sparkle and ability to hide flaws with its brilliant facets.
Also, radiant cuts have a more modern design compared to cushion cuts, making them a popular choice for those seeking a contemporary look.
As I have mentioned before, the decision comes down to personal preference and budget, though a radiant diamond engagement ring is a great option for those looking for a diamond with exceptional brilliance and a sleek design.