The Round Brilliant Cut boasts 58 facets (including the culet) and offers exceptional white light reflection, also known as brilliance. With a classic, timeless appearance, Round Brilliant Cuts are often used in engagement rings, necklaces and other fine jewelry pieces. This 1.0 Carat stone is a stunning example of a Round Brilliant Cut.
In 1919, Marcel Tolkowsky created a surge of interest in the Round Cut Diamond by publishing his work, “Diamond Design: A Study of the Reflection and Refraction of Light in Diamond” which highlighted the ideal cut aspects of a Round Brilliant. Since Tolkowsky’s influence, the Round Cut has remained the most common diamond cut.
During the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras, the Old European cut was a popular diamond choice. As knowledge and technology advanced over time, diamond cutting techniques became more refined. Cut design progressed toward larger tables, smaller culets and longer, leaner facets. While Old Europeans were cut primarily for color, the Round Brilliant is cut for brilliance.
The primary difference between the Old European and the Round Cut is that the Old European maintains facets with triangular blocks while the Round Brilliant has thinner facets. Some customers enjoy the vintage style and personality of the Old European, though most prefer the brilliance of the Round Cut.
WHY ARE ROUND CUT DIAMONDS SO POPULAR?
Round cut diamonds are the most popular diamond shape. In fact, they make up approximately 75% of all diamonds sold, and about 60% of all engagement rings.
Here are the main reasons round cut diamonds are highly sought after:
Beauty: Round cut diamonds are exceptional. They’re cut with 58 facets that all reflect light back to your eyes. For over 100 years, diamond cutters have been perfecting the process for cutting round diamonds. The result: gorgeous gemstones with a classic appearance.
Brilliance: Brilliance is what makes a diamond sparkle. It’s the amount of white light that reflects off of the diamond’s table to your eyes. The ideal cut aspects of a round diamond provide more brilliance than any other shape. That’s why a well cut round diamond, like the stone in this 1.50 carat solitaire ring, is an absolute eye-catcher.
Fire: A diamond’s fire refers to the amount of colored light that is dispersed by the diamond. This colored reflection gives a diamond character and beauty. When a round diamond has an exceptional cut, it showcases a tremendous amount of fire.
Versatility: Because the round brilliant boasts a classic design, it complements many styles, from modern round cut diamond rings to vintage engagement rings. Round cut stones are often chosen for side stones as well, like in this three-stone ring, or this pavé setting.
Timeless Appearance: Round-shaped diamonds have been in style for centuries. With their beautiful facets and elegance, a round cut ring is a classic choice that will be cherished and handed down for generations.
If you’re thinking about getting a round cut diamond engagement ring, you can browse recently purchased rings from our highest rated retailers.