WHAT DOES A BRILLIANT-CUT DIAMOND MEAN? 

If you’ve been shopping for diamond jewelry, you may have heard the term “brilliant-cut diamonds.” But what does it really mean? Here's a quick rundown of how these diamonds are crafted and why they're so popular among buyers.

A "brilliant-cut diamond" is any diamond cut or polished with multiple facets to provide brilliance. But nothing is ever that straightforward. Most people use the term 'brilliant-cut diamond" to describe a round diamond cut with 58 facets (or 57 if there is no culet), with 25 on the pavilion (below the girdle) and 33 on the crown (above the girdle), all radiating out from a central point to the girdle edge. And each of these small facets must be precisely aligned to give off the maximum amount of sparkle.

A brilliant-cut diamond is one of the most popular diamond cuts in the world. It was developed by Marcel Tolkowsky in 1919 and has since become a classic shape, often referred to as the ideal cut. This diamond shape is designed to maximize brilliance by having a set of symmetrically arranged and carefully calibrated facets that will reflect light from all angles.

No, a diamond is not a brilliant-cut diamond just because it is round. A brilliant-cut diamond resembles two pyramids aligned base to base and is designed to maximize the gem's brilliance with the least amount of carat weight loss. Therefore, not all round diamonds are brilliant-cut diamonds.

Well, the brilliant-cut diamond is so popular for many reasons:

1. Its diamond cut is designed to maximize the amount of light that enters and leaves its surface. This makes a brilliant-cut diamond sparkle more than other cuts.
2. Its diamond shape makes it look larger than its carat weight would suggest.
3. A brilliant-cut diamond's faceted structure also helps to mask any inclusions or imperfections within the stone, which enhances its overall beauty.
4. This diamond cut is symmetrical and precise, which gives a consistent look from diamond to diamond.
5. And because of its popularity, brilliant-cut diamonds are available in many sizes, shapes, and colors, so it's easy for buyers to find just the right one for their needs.
6. Finally, round brilliant-cut diamonds most closely resemble the natural contours of rough diamond crystals. This means less diamond cutting is required to shape the stone, leading to less waste and a larger, final carat weight. 

1. So there you have it, folks. A round brilliant-cut diamond is a special type of diamond that has been carefully cut into 58 precise facets (or 57 if there is no culet) to maximize its sparkle and brilliance. This shape is popular among buyers because its symmetrical design makes it look larger than its carat weight would suggest, and it masks any inclusions or imperfections. Plus, round brilliant-cut diamonds come in many sizes, shapes, and colors, so it's easy to find just the right one. So if you’re looking for a diamond with plenty of sparkle, the brilliant-cut diamond is sure to deliver.