Radiant Cut Princess?

stephensmith · Jul 31, 2006

Hi, i have been looking at princess cut diamonds for an anniversary ring and have come across a radiant cut modified square, but i''m having trouble finding info on the radiant cut. Is it a normal fancy cut, such as marquis, princess, pear, etc? or is it considered other? Also as far as the girdle is concerned, what is the ideal, thick, medium, etc? I''ve seen several posts recommending a total depth of less than 65%, does more take away the size as far as when looking at it mounted? thanks for any input....

JohnQuixote · Jul 31, 2006

Date: 7/31/2006 11:00:52 AM
Author:stephensmith
Hi, i have been looking at princess cut diamonds for an anniversary ring and have come across a radiant cut modified square, but i'm having trouble finding info on the radiant cut. Is it a normal fancy cut, such as marquis, princess, pear, etc? or is it considered other? Also as far as the girdle is concerned, what is the ideal, thick, medium, etc? I've seen several posts recommending a total depth of less than 65%, does more take away the size as far as when looking at it mounted? thanks for any input....

Hi Stephen. The radiant is a great shape with a very elegant look. As a fancy it's not as common as the princess or emerald, but it is a standard cut.

The original radiant was designed as a cross between princess and emerald. It has the brilliant cutting style, with some of the triangular faceting of the princess - and can be found in that square shape - but it has the outside lines & cut corners of the emerald. Its original design was pioneered and patented in 1977 by Henry Grossbard who eventually permitted others to begin cutting the shape (a footnote: Grossbard was sadly killed in a hit-and-run accident just last year).

Our observations with well-cut radiants are that they have a slightly higher crown range than the princess and a smaller table. We consider a nice depth range to be 65-69% (edited - thanks Stephen) some of this can depend on length-width ratio. Average girdle thicknesses of Thin, Med or Slightly Thick are desirable. Too thick and too much of the diamond’s weight is hidden in the girdle. Too thin and there could be a durability issue, although the radiant doesn't have sharp corners like a traditional princess. As with all diamonds, a girdle description of 'Very Thin' - Thick' may not be a concern if the 'Very Thin' applies to only one point along the entire girdle and that point is not vulnerable.

With any fancy shape it's best to work with an expert you trust to assist you.

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