Radiant vs. Round Cut Diamonds: Which is Better?

If you have a Pinterest board full of engagement rings, it’s safe to say that there’s a theme to the ones you decided to pin. They are probably all the same metal color, whether it’s platinum, white, yellow or rose gold. They also likely have the same or similar diamond sizes and shapes for the center stone.

We’re all drawn to specific shaped diamonds, but if it turns out that you’re trying to decide between two different shapes, there are plenty of aspects to consider. It’s a serious decision not to take lightly because, after all, the diamond is usually the first thing people notice when looking at your engagement ring.

If you're trying to decide between a round and radiant cut diamond, there are many factors to consider. 

Round Brilliant

The round brilliant cut diamond is by far the most popular and classic choice for engagement rings. It is known for its incredible sparkle and shine, which is in part due to the carefully designed proportions and 58 facets. The round brilliant cut diamond is known to be the most brilliant cut and it’s also incredibly versatile, able to be set in a variety of different styles.

Radiant Cut

The radiant cut diamond is a combination of the emerald cut and the round brilliant cut. It is considered to be in the square cut diamond family, although it can also be rectangular in shape–it also always has trimmed corners and 70 facets. It was developed in the 1970s by Henry Grossbard, and is often seen set in solitaire designs, three-stone rings, and halo settings. Due to the trimmed corners, the radiant cut can be set with regular prongs instead of the v-tip that many square or rectangular cut diamonds require due to their sharp corners that can be easily chipped. A rectangular radiant cut can appear to be larger than the carat weight may suggest and can elongate the finger, which is a definite plus.

Setting Styles

It's important to consider the setting style when deciding between round and radiant cuts. If you are partial to a particular setting, you should select a stone that works well for that setting style. 

Prong Setting: This is one of the most classic and popular settings for diamonds. In a prong setting, small metal claws or prongs hold the diamond securely in place while allowing maximum light to enter and reflect off the stone, enhancing its brilliance. Prong settings can vary in the number of prongs used, typically four or six. They can be made in different metals like platinum, white gold, or yellow gold. You can also have different shapes for your prongs (e.g. pointed, rounded, single, double). Each subtle difference can change the way that your engagement ring looks. Both round brilliant cut diamonds and radiant cut diamonds work great with a prong setting.

Bezel Setting: In a bezel setting, a metal rim surrounds the outside of the diamond, holding it securely in place. This setting offers excellent protection for the diamond as it covers the edges, making it less prone to chipping or damage. Bezel settings can be either full or partial, with the latter leaving the sides of the diamond exposed to maximize light reflection. Round brilliant cut diamonds look beautiful with a bezel setting, and while radiant cut diamonds can be set in a bezel, you may lose the elegance of the shape. Therefore, bezel would certainly not be our first choice of setting style for radiant cut diamonds.

Tension Setting: A tension setting holds the diamond in place using the pressure of the metal band, creating the illusion that the diamond is suspended between the two ends of the ring. This setting allows maximum light to enter the diamond, enhancing its brilliance, and offers a modern and minimalist aesthetic. This is a bit precarious for the diamond, as it’s less secure, so tension settings are not recommended. 

Halo Setting: A halo setting features a ring of smaller diamonds surrounding the center diamond. The center diamond can be set in a traditional prong or bezel setting within the halo, depending on the desired design. Both round brilliant cut diamonds and radiant cut diamonds work great in a halo setting. You can even customize it further by choosing the same (or different) shaped diamonds to set in the halo. The options are almost limitless.

Differences Between Round Brilliant Cut and Radiant Cut Diamonds

The round brilliant cut diamond is certainly the more classic, traditional option between the two, whereas the radiant cut diamond is more popular in modern designs. The round brilliant cut has more sparkle due to the cut style and number of facets than the radiant cut. Due to both of these, and many other factors, the round brilliant cut diamond tends to be more expensive per carat than any other shape diamond. The center of a radiant cut is known to have wonderful brilliance and the cut makes it more durable than a round brilliant cut. 

Which One is Better?

Now that you have a little more information about both diamond shapes, you’re probably trying to figure out how you will make a decision between the two. The first advice we would give is to ignore current trends because they come and go so quickly. It’s best to choose something that you personally love since you’re going to be wearing it daily. Think about your personal style. Do you prefer classic designs, or do you lean towards modern? Consider your budget as well and compare the pricing for similarly graded stones in both shapes to see what makes the most sense for your finances. When evaluating stones, make sure you meet with a trusted jeweler and look at diamonds that have been certified by a diamond grading lab you are familiar and comfortable with. 

Ultimately, the decision to choose between a round brilliant cut and a radiant cut diamond is all about personal preference. They are both beautiful in their own right and have many positive attributes that would contribute to an unforgettable engagement ring. That being said, your personal style must shine through with this decision and you must ask yourself the necessary questions to make the best choice for you and your relationship.

If you prefer timeless elegance and maximum sparkle, the round brilliant cut might be perfect for you. Alternatively, if you’re drawn to a modern, bold look with extra durability, the radiant may be the better fit. Whichever you choose, just remember that this diamond will represent your relationship, your personality, and your love story. It will be absolutely beautiful, no matter what.