Princess vs. Radiant cut

[nic]

I've been told by a jeweler that the radiant cut diamond gives better performance and that it is a better value cut.
I don't know what to think. Please advise. Thanks

 

[lawmax]

The two cuts have different faceting patterns and different looks. You really need to try to see two well cut diamonds and determine which you prefer. Work with a jeweler who can get or has really well-cut diamonds and isn't trying to sell just what he/she has in stock.

 

[swift]

The two cuts are very different looking and it is a matter of personal preference which look you like. A well-cut stone is beautiful and sparkly regardless of the shape and cut.

The princess-cut is usually square-ish and has four points. Imagine if you draw a square and then an "X" in the middle connecting the four point of the corners. That's the way the princess looks. It has good scintillation (sparkle) when it's well-cut.

The radiant is usually rectangular (although some are square) with a clipped corners like an emerald-cut. The faceting is done underneath is such a way that light goes in the stone and bounces around inside so that all you see is a sea of sparkle. When you look into the stone from the top, you get lost inside the stone - there doesn't seem to be any end to it.

It is hard to describe how stones look, you have to see them for yourself. Don't let anyone tell you one is "better" than the other, it's whatever you like.