When selecting a diamond, the cut plays a huge role in its appearance, personality, and overall brilliance. Two popular rectangular-shaped cuts—Radiant and Emerald—may look similar at a glance, but they offer very different styles and visual effects. At Johnston Jewelers, we help you understand these differences so you can find a diamond that perfectly reflects your taste, lifestyle, and story.
Radiant Cut: Sparkle and Bold Brilliance
The Radiant cut is known for its incredible fire and brilliance, combining the best features of round and emerald cuts. It features 70 facets that are carefully angled to reflect light from every direction, creating a dazzling sparkle that rivals even the most brilliant round diamonds.
Radiant cut diamonds are often chosen by those who love a modern look with high energy. The cropped corners and versatility make them an excellent choice for engagement rings, especially for those with active lifestyles, as they are less likely to catch or chip.
Key traits of Radiant Cut diamonds:
• Brilliant facet pattern for maximum sparkle
• Cropped corners and rectangular or square outline
• Ideal for those who want brilliance with a unique sh
Emerald Cut: Elegance and Subtle Sophistication
The Emerald cut, by contrast, is known for its clean lines and vintage-inspired elegance. It features a step-cut designwith long, open facets that create a hall-of-mirrors effect—more of a soft glow than intense sparkle. This cut highlights clarity and color, making it ideal for high-quality diamonds with fewer inclusions.
Emerald cuts are often chosen by those who appreciate understated luxury, sophistication, and timeless style. Its elongated shape also has a slimming effect on the finger, adding to its graceful appeal.
Key traits of Emerald Cut diamonds:
• Step-cut facets for a sleek, mirror-like shine
• Rectangular shape with trimmed corners
• Emphasizes clarity and elegance over brilliance
• Offers a vintage, refined aesthetic
Which Should You Choose?
If you love sparkle and glamour, the Radiant cut may be the better fit. It’s lively, modern, and eye-catching. If your style leans more toward timeless, refined, and minimalist, the Emerald cut offers an elegant, poised presence. Both cuts are stunning in their own right—it all comes down to your personal taste and what you want your diamond to say about you.
At Johnston Jewelers, we’ll help you compare both styles side by side, view them in various settings, and choose the diamond that truly speaks to you.