At any diamond store, you'll see a variety of different diamond cuts. Diamond cuts are the distinctive shapes into which diamonds are cut. Some of the best known diamond cuts include the round brilliant, the princess cut, the emerald cut and the cushion cut. Note that "cut" in this case is different from the "cut" grade that appears on a diamond certificate.
So, which one is the best diamond cut? One of the great things about diamonds is that every single one is unique and has its own distinct properties, and this means that it's possible to find great looking diamonds at a good value regardless of the shape. Shape is largely a matter of personal preference, and it's not really possible to declare one particular shape the very best for every buyer's purposes. That being said, we have a few ideas as to which shapes tend to be the best in the areas of value, versatility, and overall quality.
Best Value: The Radiant Cut
Diamond cuts have a noticeable impact on the prices of diamonds. Round brilliant diamonds tend to be the most expensive, mainly because they are the most popular. The radiant cut can often offer superior value. Radiant cut diamonds are a little more difficult to find than most, and they aren't available in the same huge numbers that round brilliant diamonds or princess cut diamonds are, and as such they're often overlooked by buyers.
However, the radiant cut is perhaps the best of all diamond cuts in terms of value because, despite its lack of popularity, it has many of the same attractive features that the round brilliant offers, at a significantly lower price. The radiant cut has small facets, much like the round brilliant, so radiant cut diamonds can exhibit superior sparkle and brilliance even when they have internal flaws. Also, radiant cut diamonds can be used in a wide variety of settings thanks to their square shape (with rounded corners). This is why we think the radiant cut is the best diamond cut for value.
Best Versatility: The Princess Cut
Cuts with a square outline tend to be the most versatile; round diamonds, even with all their other advantages, can't be used in as many different types of settings. Settings such as the pavé setting require diamonds that can be set tightly together, and square or rectangular diamonds are much better suited to this purpose.
Of these diamonds, the princess cut is the best cut for versatility. Princess cuts are usually square in shape, with all sides being of equal length. Their small facets, and combination of rounded and angular facets, maximize the brilliance of the diamond while also creating a unique look which can be used effectively as a solitaire, or as a complementary diamond in just about any style of setting.
Best Overall Quality: The Round Brilliant Cut
The round brilliant is considered the king of cuts for a reason. It was the first major cut to use small facets, which help to make even slightly flawed diamonds look perfect. Its round shape and sides, meanwhile, make it much less susceptible to damage than cuts with straight sides or corners. Round brilliant diamonds do tend to be more expensive than others, but their durability enables them to maintain their appearance and value over the long term. This is why the round brilliant is considered the best diamond cut for overall quality.
