Quick question: Have you ever looked at two equally spectacular gemstones (one emerald-cut and the other radiant-cut) and said to yourself, “Emerald-cut vs. radiant-cut – I wonder what’s the difference?” Because if so, you aren’t the only one.
And in today’s article, we plan on answering just that! So, grab yourself a hot cup of coffee and read on…
The Key Differences Between Emerald-Cut and Radiant-Cut
|
Emerald-Cut |
Radiant-Cut |
| With 49-58 linear, step-cut facets, this cut features an elongated rectangular shape with cut corners. | Available in either a rectangular or square shape with cropped corners, this cut features 70 facets and a faceting pattern similar to that of the round brilliant-cut. |
| This cut is known for its ‘Hall of Mirrors,’ i.e., flashes of light effect. | This cut is known for its extreme fire and brilliance. |
1. Description
Emerald-Cut
Timeless, elegant and always a showstopper, the emerald-cut is basically the Audrey Hepburn of gemstone cuts.
It generally features a rectangular shape with cut corners as well as 49-58 linear, step-cut facets (geometrically arranged flat surfaces) based on the dimension of the gem. What makes this cut really stand out here is undoubtedly its parallel facets which create unique flashes of light that spell ‘sophistication.’ In some cases, this cut can also feature a square shape.
Also read: A Guide to Emerald-Cut Engagement Rings
Radiant-Cut
With a whopping 70 facets, the radiant-cut is basically the Beyoncé of gemstone cuts – It’s one of the most brilliant out there. This cut features a rectangular or square shape with cropped corners. What sets it apart, however, is its faceting pattern which is similar to the round brilliant-cut.
Did You Know?
Unlike its emerald counterpart, this cut is basically the new kid on the gemstone block. It was created just over 30 years ago by the mastermind diamond cutter Henry Grossbard. He basically took the best elements of the emerald and round brilliant cuts, threw them into a gem-cutting blender and voila – the radiant-cut was born.
Note: When grading diamonds, the GIA typically refers to this cut as the cut-cornered, rectangular or square modified brilliant.
2. Shine
When people usually ask us what the main difference between an emerald vs. radiant-cut gemstone is, our first response is their shine.
Emerald-Cut
Due to their gorgeous parallel, step-cut facets, emerald-cut stones typically showcase flashes of light that are mesmerizing to watch. This effect is called the ‘Hall of Mirrors.’
Radiant-Cut
You see, radiant-cut gems have 70 kite-shaped or triangular facets radiating from their center, designed to emphasize the inherent fire (the visible extent to which light is dispersed into spectral colors) and brilliance (the amount of white light that reflects out of the crown of the gemstone to your eye) of the gemstone.
Radiant-Cut vs. Emerald-Cut Price: Which Is More Expensive?
Generally speaking, radiant-cut gemstones are slightly more expensive than their emerald-cut counterparts.
Why, you ask?
Well, for starters, this cut features a unique faceting style that places a lot more focus on the concentration of color of your gem (as compared to its emerald counterpart). So, if you’re looking for a cut that showcases just how beautiful your colored stone is, you know which one to get.
What’s more, with the radiant-cut, you don’t really need to worry about the pesky inclusions that your stone may have. Thanks to its extreme brilliance (another boon of its faceting pattern), this cut tends to draw attention away from the gemstone’s inclusions and refocus it on its shine.
In contrast, the emerald-cut constitutes a large table that can spotlight the inclusions present within your gem. And unfortunately, the only way to avoid it is to opt for a higher clarity grade which typically results in a higher price.
Also Read: Perfect Pairings: How to Choose a Wedding Band for Your Emerald-Cut Engagement Ring?
So, when picking the perfect cut for you, we recommend paying more attention to the color, shine and clarity of your stone and making your choice based on which you want to highlight.
In the end, whether you’re team emerald-cut or team radiant-cut, remember that beauty is in the eye of the beholder. So, the next time you find yourself faced with the emerald vs. radiant-cut dilemma, just trust yourself and go with the cut that speaks to you.
Want to buy an emerald-cut gemstone ring but don’t know where to shop? Angara is the place for you! From subtle emerald-cut garnet rings and emerald-cut amethyst rings to extravagant emerald-cut aquamarine rings, we’ve got several options for you to choose from.
And don’t worry, we also have multiple emerald-cut diamond rings, emerald-cut blue sapphire rings and emerald-cut emerald rings within our collection. So, if precious gems are your go-to, we have plenty options in store.
