Smooth and clean or bright and sparkly? These are important decisions you’ll need to make when choosing an engagement ring for your significant other. Two diamond shapes to consider are emerald and radiant cuts, and we’re here to tell you more about them.

What is an Emerald Cut Diamond?

This is a type of step cut diamond, where a gem’s flat, polished surfaces (aka facets) are placed in parallel rows, creating long, clean lines.

Emerald cut stones have a rectangular shape with trimmed corners, so they essentially look like stretched octagons. Their long, large facets appear staggered, creating a stunning “hall-of-mirrors” effect. Therefore, clarity is a key characteristic when selecting these stones. Emerald cut diamonds feature 57 facets, which is comparable to round brilliant cut diamonds.

Engagement Ring Settings for Emerald Cut Diamonds

The emerald shape has been around since the 1500s, but the term “emerald cut” didn’t surface until the 1920s. That’s when these gems became a hit with shoppers. Since then, they have also turned into a standard center stone option for engagement ring settings, especially for those who love a vintage look.

Solitaire: As the most classic option, this setting features a single emerald cut diamond, showcasing its sleek clean lines.

Halo: This setting includes a larger emerald cut diamond that’s further enhanced by smaller, surrounding diamonds.

Should You Buy an Emerald Cut Diamond?

Pros:

● Those long, clean lines give this diamond a truly elegant look. This shape is also an ideal option if your partner appreciates all things vintage.

● Due to the arrangement of facets, less pressure is applied during the cutting process. Therefore, you’ll find fewer chips in your diamond.

● If your significant other has short fingers, emerald cut gems can make them look longer and slimmer! The length-to-width ratio on most emerald-cut diamonds ranges between 1.30 and 1.50. A higher ratio is recommended for a more rectangular shape and the appearance of a longer finger.

Cons:

● Imperfections can sometimes be more visible due to the large, clear facets.

● The big facets also make it easier to detect unwanted hints of color. As a result, you’ll likely need to choose stones with higher color grades, which could be more expensive.

What is a Radiant Cut Diamond?

This cut is a newer style, as it wasn’t introduced until the 1970s. Its shape is sometimes compared to an emerald cut, but it has much more sparkle! That’s because it’s a type of brilliant cut diamond, where facets are arranged to enhance a stone’s sparkle/brilliance. Radiant cut diamonds feature an impressive 70 facets, many of which are triangular in shape.

Engagement Ring Settings for Radiant Cut Diamonds

Solitaire: Who wouldn’t love having this sparkling beauty as the center of attention?

Three-Stone: As the name suggests, this setting highlights three stones: a larger, center diamond/gemstone and smaller stones on both sides. With additional gems, your radiant cut diamond will look even bigger and bolder!

Should You Buy a Radiant Cut Diamond?

Pros:

● This shape shows off more sparkle than emerald cut gems.

● Since these facets are positioned differently, radiant cut stones are better at hiding imperfections.

● You’re also less likely to see hints of color. That means you can stretch your budget by choosing a diamond with a lower color grade.

● Similar to emerald cuts, these gems have rounded corners, which reduce the risk of chipping.

Cons:

● Radiant cut diamonds don’t offer sleek lines like you’d see in emerald cuts. That isn’t exactly a drawback. It’s just a matter of personal preference!

● This is one of the most modern diamond shapes. But since its sparkle is similar to round brilliant cut gems, this type of diamond could be mistaken for more traditional stones.

Have a question? We can help!

Gage Diamonds is Chicago's premier jewelry showroom and online retailer of engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. We offer a selection of dazzling handpicked diamonds, including emerald and radiant cut diamonds.

We’re committed to helping you find the ring of your dreams. For inspiration, browse our website or set up an appointment with a member of our trusted staff at our in-person showroom.

We offer no-credit-needed financing – feel free to apply and get your approval within 24 hours!

Pay over time, because love shouldn’t wait.