Comparing Princess Cut and Radiant Cut Diamonds
What Came First, the Radiant or Princess?
It was the radiant cut, invented in 1977, that was first on the scene, and certainly played a big part in inspiring the invention of the princess cut a few years after. The inventor of the radiant diamond, Henry Grossbard, envisaged a diamond that “retained the shape of a traditional emerald cut”, a step cut diamond, and “infused it with the brilliance people expected of their diamonds." With the invention of the radiant cut, interest in square and rectangular shapes grew, with the brilliance produced by this fancy cut a particular interest to enthusiasts and customers alike.
Our brilliant radiant diamond
engagement ring collection
As with every great innovation, diamond manufacturers set out to create imitations of the radiant cut diamond, resulting in the creation of the princess cut in the early 1980s, invented by Robert J. Wueste. The radiant cut was patented so the manufactures had to alter the arrangement of facets in creating the princess cut. One of the key attractions for diamond manufacturers in the new princess cut diamond was that much less of the diamond would be lost in the cutting process. Less wastage is also good news for customers, as it means in many cases two princess cut diamonds can be produced from one rough stone, lowering the price per carat of the princess cut diamond.
The Differences between Radiant Cut and Princess Cut Diamonds
Despite being inspired by the radiant cut, both shapes share little in common, apart from having a similar crown to one another. Firstly, the radiant cut has very sharp corners, compared to the radiant that has “cut” corners. Further, both shapes reflect light in very different ways; the radiant reflects light from several angles, making it sparkle with fire. The princess cut, on the other hand, reflects light in a “linear” fashion, with the black and white reflections forming a black “X” within the diamond. Another difference is the preferred dimensions of the two shapes. Whereas for princess cut diamonds a length to width ratio higher than 1.05 will lower the value of the diamond, radiant cut diamonds are just as popular whether they are square or more rectangular.
Radiant Cut Vs Princess Cut Diamonds
When choosing between a radiant or princess cut, there is no clear cut right answer; rather, as with choosing any type of diamond, it depends on the personal preference of the person purchasing the diamond and for whom they are purchasing the diamond. Here are the benefits of purchasing each shape, allowing you to decide which one suits your needs and tastes best:
|
Radiant Cut Diamonds |
Princess Cut Diamonds |
|---|---|
| Available as either square or rectangular shaped | Usually has 76 facets, more than the round cut |
| Reflected light moves in a circular pattern, meaning more light enters and more light is reflected out | Tends to be less expensive than other cuts due to the limited wastage of rough stone in the cutting process. |
| Cut corners means the radiant can safely be set in several prong settings | Clean straight cut outer lines |
| No sharp corners means the radiant is less likely to chip | Can be set side by side with a four-prong setting, making it perfect for the invisible setting |
| With fewer radiant cuts available, it is a more unique diamond cut | Often used as both side stones or center stones |
| Great if you like the emerald cut shape, but want more brilliance |
Making the Decision
We have a great selection of both radiant cut and princess cut diamonds, as well as radiant diamond engagement rings and princess diamond solitaire pendants as well as princess solitaire rings and radiant cut diamond pendants. If you are looking for a slightly more unique diamond with more sparkle, the elegant radiant cut is your best option. If you are seeking a cleaner cut, or diamonds to be used either as side stones or in a multi-stone setting, then the princess cut is the shape for you.
We hope you have found this article helpful. If you have any questions about princess or radiant cut diamonds or about diamond jewelry in general, we can always be contacted on 1-800-557-7095 where one of our expert diamond jewelers will be happy to assist you. Alternatively, you can email us at [email protected] with any questions you may have.