Radiant Cut Diamond

The radiant cut is a rectangular (or square) diamond shape with cropped corners and brilliant-cut faceting. It typically has 70 facets, making it one of the most faceted diamond shapes. Unlike the emerald cut, which uses step-cut faceting that produces broad flashes, the radiant cut's brilliant-style facets create intense sparkle and fire similar to a round brilliant. The cropped corners give it the same geometric elegance as an emerald cut while making it less vulnerable to chipping than a princess cut. The radiant cut was the first rectangular shape to feature a complete brilliant-cut facet pattern.

The radiant cut was invented by Henry Grossbard in 1977. Grossbard spent over 30 years studying diamond cuts before creating a shape that combined the elegance of a stepped shape with the brilliance of a round. The original radiant cut was trademarked, but the style has since become widely adopted by cutters worldwide. The radiant cut filled a gap in the market for buyers who admired the outline of an emerald cut but wanted more sparkle. It has grown steadily in popularity and is now one of the most versatile fancy shapes.

The radiant cut's brilliant faceting hides inclusions well, so VS2 or SI1 clarity is usually sufficient for an eye-clean stone. Colour is also well-masked, making G-H excellent choices. Focus on finding a stone with even brilliance across the entire face, without dark areas in the centre. If choosing a rectangular radiant, a length-to-width ratio of 1.20-1.30 gives a balanced, elegant proportion. Lab-grown radiant cuts offer exceptional value, particularly for larger stones where the shape's brilliance really comes alive.

The radiant cut's cropped corners make it naturally suited to four-prong settings without the corner vulnerability of a princess cut. A solitaire setting with a thin band highlights the shape's geometry. Halo settings add size and frame the rectangular outline beautifully. Three-stone settings with half-moon or trapezoid side stones create a sophisticated, balanced look. The radiant also works well in east-west orientations for a modern twist.

The radiant cut appeals to buyers who want the best of both worlds — geometric structure and serious sparkle. It suits those who admire emerald cuts but do not want to compromise on brilliance, and those who want something less common than a cushion or oval.