| Specific
proportions regarding the ideal
depth of a radiant cut diamond
have not been conclusively determined
or published by Gemological Institute
of America. Ideal proportion is
more difficult to establish in
a radiant cut diamond than in
a round diamond. A round diamond
has a consistent pavilion angle
that makes ideal proportions easier
to establish as a depth percentage.
A radiant cut diamond has a pavilion
that is made up of a variety of
angles due to a unique pavilion
shape and variance in length and
width. (See Diagram) |
Select Emerald Cut
Diamonds Within These
Ranges
|
|
total
depth % ---------- 65%
- 80% |
|
table
% ---------------- 65%
- 80% |
|
girdle
thickness ---------Very
Thin - Thick |
|
cullet
------------------ None
- Medium |
|
polish
------------------ Excellent
- good |
|
symmetry
-------------- Excellent
- Good |
|
flourescence
----------- None - Faint |
Length
to width ratio --- 1.0
- 1.4 to 1 |
|
 The
depth percentage of a radiant cut
diamond is determined by dividing
the depth measurement by the diameter
measurement. The diameter is determined
by measuring a radiant cut diamond's
width from side to side. The longer
length measurement is not taken into
consideration when calculating diameter.
By viewing a radiant cut diamond from
the end view you can see how slightly
different the pavilion looks from
that of a round diamond. Radiant cut
diamonds require a diamond cutter
to cut a steeper pavilion angle than
what is normally cut on a round diamond.
This steeper angle ensures greater
brilliance in a radiant cut.
A radiant
cut diamond has a uniquely beautiful
shape that is favored by many women
for its beauty as well as its unique
design capabilities. It is the only
truly rectangular diamond shape that
has striking brilliance superior to
the emerald cut. The diagram illustrates
a variety of radiant cuts showing
changes in appearance due to differing
depth percentages and length-to- width
ratios. The proper depth percentage
for a radiant cut is between 65% and
80%. You will find that a radiant
cut diamond cut within this range
will deliver more brilliance. A radiant
cut diamond that is cut shallower
than 65% will let a greater percentage
of light leak through the pavilion
which results in less diamond brilliance.
Radiant cut diamonds with depth percentages
greater than 80% will appear darker
in the center due to a large amount
of light refracting through and out
the bottom of the diamond.
Radiant
cut diamonds that are closer to square
in measurement will be more brilliant
if the depth percentage is within
the range of 65% to 75%. Radiant cut
diamonds that have more rectangular
shapes exhibit greater brilliance
with depth percentages between 70%
to 80%. When choosing a radiant cut
diamond be aware of the depth percentage
and length-to-width ratio; they will
give you better indication of the
the brilliance that a radiant cut
exhibits. Our Gemologist-Appraisers
will be happy to help guide you to
the most brilliant radiant cut diamond
your money can buy. |
