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All About Diamonds: Radiant vs Cushion Cut Diamonds

Two of our favourite fancy cut diamonds are cushion cut and radiant cut diamonds. Both diamonds look spectacular set in jewellery like engagement rings, pendants and earrings as they both emit lots of fire, perfect to sparkle and make a statement. Although both diamond cuts come in both rectangular and square shapes, their cuts are very different.

Cushion Cut Diamond Info

The cushion cut diamonds was first developed in the 1830s.With its classic, romantic look, the diamond is a perfect choice for those who love vintage jewellery. The diamond has 58 facets and rounded corners, resembling a pillow. Compared to newer diamonds the cut is not as fiery or brilliant and is considered to be a softer version of the emerald cut diamond. The cut of the diamond attracts a lot of colour as it reflects light- we recommend a colour grade between D to G. We also recommend for clarity grade, nothing lower than an SI2. When selecting a square shaped cushion, look for a length-to-width ratio between 1 and 1.05. For those who prefer a rectangular shaped radiant, choose a length-to-width ratio of 1.15 or greater.

Radiant Cut Diamonds

The radiant cut diamond is a relatively new cut created in 1977. Like a cushion cut, the shape of the diamond can be both square and rectangular, and was specifically developed to add more sparkle and brilliance to the cushion cut diamond. A radiant cut diamond has more fire then a cushion cut diamond; however the diamonds have a similar shape with croped, rounded corners. A radiant cut emits a modern look, compared to a vintage look of a cushion cut diamond. The diamond has 70 facets and the cut attracts a lot of colour, we recommend a colour grade no lower than I and clarity grade no lower than SI2.

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