What is a full-cut brilliant diamond?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A full-cut brilliant is a round brilliant-cut diamond or coloured stone with the standard 58 facets: 32 facets and a table above the girdle forming the crown, and 24 facets plus a culet below forming the pavilion. That specific arrangement of triangular and kite-shaped facets is engineered to maximise the way light enters, reflects and exits the stone, producing the brilliant fire and sparkle the round cut is famous for. It is the most common cut used in engagement rings and fine jewellery today.
Frequently asked questions
- How many facets does a full-cut brilliant have?
- A full-cut brilliant has 58 facets: 33 on the crown including the table, and 25 on the pavilion including the culet, though many modern stones are cut without a culet, leaving 57.
- What is the difference between a full-cut and a single-cut brilliant?
- A single cut has just 17 or 18 facets and is used for very small stones where cutting all 58 facets would be impractical. A full cut has the complete 58 facets and produces far more sparkle.
- Is a full-cut brilliant the same as a round brilliant?
- Yes, the terms describe the same cut. Round brilliant refers to the shape and overall style, while full-cut brilliant specifies that all 58 facets are present rather than a simplified version.
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