Rose Cut Diamonds Vs. Brilliant Diamonds

What’s the difference?

Rose cut diamonds look and feel completely different from brilliant cut diamonds. They sparkle, shine, and shimmer in subtle and more complex ways than the traditional gleaming brilliant diamond.

Whether you are enchanted by the enigmatic prisms of rose cut diamonds or fascinated by the intense sparkle of the brilliant cut, gaining insight into their differences will help you select the diamond cut that best expresses your personality.

What is a Rose Cut Diamond?

Rose cut diamonds have a prism domed top full of triangular facets. The surface might remind you of a sparkling hall of mirrors. Since in contrast to modern diamonds, they are cut from the bottom and not the top – they have a flat bottom. Cutting from the bottom creates a larger surface area. And since, on average, rose cut diamonds run between 20-30% less than brilliant cuts, they offer greater value to the consumer.

The multi-faceted rose cut originates back to the 16th century and exudes a quiet, yet sophisticated luster. The triangular prisms mimic a rosebud’s petals.

The distinctive cutting style of rose cut diamonds sets them apart from traditional diamonds as they shine and reflect light differently from brilliant diamonds. The rose cut diamond is attractive to those desiring a unique and slightly antiquated feel in their jewelry.

The History Behind Rose Cut Diamonds

Rose cut diamonds first emerged in 16th century India and gained popularity during the Victorian era as a preferred choice for engagement rings. Recently, there has been a renewed interest in these antique diamond cuts – perhaps do to the trend of quiet luxury jewelry and the return to more classic themes to the fashion world. This resurgence in demand reflects the unique charm and mystique of these historical diamond cuts.

The Traditional Glimmering Brilliant Cut Diamond

Developed in the early 20th century, the brilliant cut is designed to maximize light reflection and refraction, resulting in the radiance and brilliance that diamonds are known for today. Featuring either 57 or 57 facets, the most common diamond cut is the round brilliant cut, meticulously designed in order to maximize the stone’s sparkle. While the round shape is the best-known and most common, brilliant cut diamonds come in a variety of shapes such as princess, cushion, and oval, each shape offering its own distinct look. 

While taking all things into consideration – the cost, sparkle, and history, one must select the diamond that feels the most brilliant upon first glance. Because remember, jewelry is personal, not commercial.