What is the Difference Between a Diamond and a Brilliant-Cut Diamond?
The dazzling brilliance of the jewelry world not only leaves us in awe but also raises questions about intricate details, such as precious stones and cutting styles. One of the most frequently confused topics is the difference between diamonds and brilliant-cut diamonds. Are they the same substance? What sets them apart? To clarify the diamond vs. brilliant debate, we explain everything you need to know about this iconic duo.
What Are Diamonds and Brilliant-Cut Diamonds?
Diamond: A diamond is a naturally occurring mineral formed through the crystallization of carbon atoms under immense heat and pressure. Known for being the hardest substance on Earth with a hardness rating of 10 on the Mohs scale, diamonds are virtually impervious to scratching or damage.
Throughout history, diamonds have captivated humanity with their unmatched properties. They were revered as symbols of divinity, status, and protection. Romans believed diamonds were fragments of fallen stars, Greeks referred to them as "tears of Olympian gods," and Indians saw them as talismans against disasters. Today, diamonds continue to charm us and serve as the raw material for brilliant-cut diamonds.
Brilliant-Cut Diamond: A brilliant-cut diamond, commonly known simply as a "brilliant," refers to a diamond that has been expertly cut using a specific technique developed by Marcel Tolkowsky in 1919. This cut maximizes the diamond's ability to refract and reflect light, creating a dazzling rainbow-like brilliance. Since a brilliant is made from a diamond, it shares the same properties, such as hardness and density.
For more details, you can read our article, “Characteristics of Brilliant-Cut Diamonds.”
Differences Between Diamonds and Brilliant-Cut Diamonds
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Definition:
A diamond is the natural mineral itself, while a brilliant is the name given to a diamond that has been cut using a special technique.
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Cutting Styles:
In Turkey, the term "diamond cut" refers to the "rose cut" style, commonly associated with diamonds. Brilliant-cut diamonds, however, come in a variety of shapes and styles.
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Facets:
Diamonds cut in the "rose cut" style typically have flat bottoms and 12 to 37 facets.
Brilliant-cut diamonds, on the other hand, usually feature 57 facets and a pointed, cone-like bottom to enhance light reflection.
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Light Reflection:
Diamonds reflect light only from their surface, which results in a more subdued shine.
Brilliant-cut diamonds, thanks to their intricate cuts and facets, refract light multiple times, producing intense sparkle and brilliance.
While these are the key differences, evolving technology and contemporary jewelry design continue to offer new interpretations of both diamonds and brilliants.
If you're curious about other precious stones used in jewelry making, don’t miss our article, “What Are the Precious Stones Used in Jewelry?”
Frequently Asked Questions
Are diamonds and brilliant-cut diamonds the same material?
Yes, diamonds are the raw material, and brilliants are diamonds shaped using a specialized cutting technique.
What is the main difference between a diamond and a brilliant-cut diamond?
A diamond is a naturally occurring mineral, while a brilliant is the result of processing a diamond with a specific cutting method.
Which is more valuable: a diamond or a brilliant?
Although diamonds and brilliants share the same base material, the value of a brilliant-cut diamond is determined by the 4Cs (Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat), meaning prices can vary widely.
Which is shinier: a diamond or a brilliant?
Brilliant-cut diamonds are much shinier due to their intricate cut, which refracts light repeatedly. Diamonds, reflecting light only from the surface, appear less sparkly in comparison.