One more time: Cushion Brilliants v. Modified? Worth the $$?

[BristowVA]

Ok, so I've read the 100 zillion threads about the differences between Cushion Brilliants and Modified Brilliants. I understand the technical differences - in terms of facet structure, etc. And, I've watched the GOG videos and have seen the pictures.

I am also very familiar with the PS bias towards chunky cushions and opposed to the "crushed ice" brilliant style.

But my question is this. If you are buying the stone for a layperson - one that has likely never heard of the difference between "Modified" v. "Cushion Brilliant" - will they notice a significant different in performance of the stones? That is, knowing that not all cushion brilliants and not all modified brilliants are created equal, to the naked eye are cushion brilliants, in general, significantly better looking stones with that much better performance?

If that is the case, then what type of price difference are we talking between the two. Most things being equal (ct weight, clarity, color, etc.) I've noticed that "Cushion Brilliants" - around 2 ct - cost about $3k-$4k more. Is it really worth it?

And, finally, can someone please weigh in on 8 mains v. 4 mains in the cushion brilliants for a layperson? I'm aware of how the different facet structure looks - and that, in general, cushion brilliants with 8 mains "should have" more fire, presence, etc. But again, how much? Is it a significantly noticable difference? Is it worth, say, another $2k? I understand it varies by stone, but I'd like to know what to be looking for, what is acceptible and how much extra I should be paying.

 

[ErinnM34]

Re: One more time: Cushion Brilliants v. Modified? Worth the

I'm no expert and pretty new here myself, but having just purchased (well, my boyfriend did!) my cushion today ( ) I'm familiar with your situation and where you're coming from.

In my opinion, there is a distinct visual difference in the facet structure between the two, but that's because I've seen both- LOTS of both Not everyone prefers the chunky look- some like the "crushed ice" look. I personally feel like the chunkier facets give off more fire and bigger flashes, but this will all come down to how well the stone is cut. An ideally cut modified brilliant may well be more eye-pleasing and technically a better "performer" than a poorly cut cushion brilliant.

The best thing you can do is get your eyes on both types, and see which one you (and your FF) prefer. Personally, I discovered PS and the AVC's, and there was NO going back for me Also, Brian Gavin has some signature cushions that are sort of a cross between the two types, as it was explained to me by one of their CSR's. Might be worth checking into to find a middle ground option!

 

[megumic]

Re: One more time: Cushion Brilliants v. Modified? Worth the

I dont know the technical terms, so hopefully someone else chimes in, but with the modified brilliants, the border of the stone gets no light return because of the way it is cut. This is at least my understanding and how it was explained to me as to why they look so different -- becuase they are cut terribly different and thus while the shape (i.e. you put a mold on it) are similar, the actual cut are entirely different, resulting in different light return, etc.

I have an over 2 ct cushion brilliant and fall in love every day. I get a gajillion comments about how gorgeous it is and although lay ppl have no idea what the heck characteristics my stone has, it gets noticed

 

[antelope1]

Re: One more time: Cushion Brilliants v. Modified? Worth the

I was a noob not too long ago. But even as a noob, I could tell the difference between the modified, modern, and antique cushions IRL, not just in photos. A modified looks more like a radiant. A modern looks more like a RB (and faces up pretty white, a good middle ground between an antique and a modified). An antique shows more color, but flashes bigger.

In the carat size you're looking for, the difference is going to be obvious, but what you like is a matter of taste. Get what you like!