When it comes to choosing the ideal diamond, the cut is a significant factor in both looks and character. Out of the numerous available, two that are usually pitted against each other are the Asscher cut diamond and the Radiant cut diamond. It is a close one too, really! Yet the two are quite differently styled. Here is how to spot the difference—particularly with lab grown diamonds, where aesthetics and value unite perfectly.
Whether you're looking at an engagement ring or a classic piece of diamond jewellery, this guide will assist you in knowing the fundamental differences between Asscher vs Radiant cut diamonds, including brilliance, shape, history, and best uses. Let's get sparkly!
A Quick Look: Asscher Cut Diamonds
The Asscher cut diamond, originally marketed by the esteemed Asscher Brothers of Holland since 1902, is an eternal classic which screams vintage grace and sophisticated glamour. This particular cut was widely used during the heyday of the Art Deco period between the 1920s and the 1930s. The Asscher cut is immediately identifiable by its square shape with clipped corners, which makes it look almost octagonal when viewed from the top. It has large step-cut facets, a high crown, and a deep pavilion, producing a dramatic "hall-of-mirrors" effect that sends light flashing in broad, hypnotic glints. In fact that is its main differentiator. The Asscher cut provides a more restrained, glass-like clarity and beauty. Due to its precise lines and antique charm, the Asscher cut is an excellent selection for people who love classic elegance, symmetry, and everlasting design in their mined diamond or lab grown diamond jewellery.
Read more: Why Solitaire Rings
Radiant Cut Diamonds at a Glance
The Radiant cut diamond, which appeared in the 1970s, is a brilliant blend of traditional beauty and contemporary sparkle. Created to capture the best aspects of the round brilliant cut and the emerald cut, the Radiant cut provides outstanding fire in a variety of shapes. It has a square or rectangular shape with trimmed, beveled corners, giving it durability and beauty. What really makes the Radiant cut stand out is its highly detailed brilliant cut facet pattern, usually made up of 70 or more facets. This sophisticated faceting enhances the diamond's fire and brilliance and creates a radiant display of light equal to that of even round cuts. Its bold sparkle and modern look make the radiant cut lab grown diamond perfect for those who desire a newer, flashier stone with everlasting charm. It's particularly well-liked by those looking for a new spin on classic diamond shapes without compromising on brilliance or character.
Key Differences Between Asscher and Radiant Cut Diamonds
Shape and Faceting
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Asscher Cut Diamond: Square with cropped corners and step-cut facets. These parallel facets resemble a staircase and create a more subtle sparkle.
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Radiant Cut Diamond: Can be square or rectangular but is brilliant-cut, which means more facets and significantly more fire and brilliance.
Takeaway: If you prefer a diamond with dramatic sparkle, radiant cut diamonds win. If you’re drawn to a sleek, geometric look, the Asscher cut diamond may be more your style.
Brilliance and Sparkle
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Radiant Cut Lab Grown Diamond: Offers exceptional brilliance due to its brilliant-cut facet structure. It reflects light in every direction.
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Asscher Cut: Known for its clarity and depth but reflects light in broader flashes rather than sparkly twinkles.
Takeaway: Radiant cuts are flashier; Asscher cuts are more understated and elegant.
Clarity and Inclusions
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Asscher cuts have large, open facets that make it easier to see inclusions. Higher clarity grades are generally preferred.
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Radiant cut diamonds are more forgiving due to their intense brilliance, which masks imperfections better.
Takeaway: If you are on a budget and considering lab grown diamonds, a radiant cut may allow for a slightly lower clarity grade without compromising beauty.
Size, Appearance and Carat Weight
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Radiant cuts tend to appear larger than Asscher cuts of the same carat weight because of their elongated shape and brilliant faceting.
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Asscher cuts look smaller due to their deep pavilion and step cuts that hide some carat weight from the top view.
Takeaway: For maximum visual impact, the radiant cut lab grown diamond is a solid choice.
Read more: Exploring the Different Types of Diamond Cuts
Asscher Cut Diamond Designs You Can Opt For
Get this classic diamond cut as your engagement ring
Classic Solitaire
A minimal yet elegant design where the Asscher cut is the main focus. Its step-cut facets and symmetry are showcased perfectly.
Vintage-Inspired Settings
These include filigree, milgrain, and engraved bands—ideal for enhancing the Asscher’s Art Deco, old-world vibe.
Halo Setting
Surrounding the Asscher cut with smaller diamonds boosts brilliance and gives it a more glamorous appearance.
Bezel Setting
This modern, protective setting encases the diamond in metal. It offers clean lines and security while highlighting the cut’s square shape.
Three-Stone Design
Two side stones (often trapezoid or baguette cuts) complement the central Asscher, symbolising past, present, and future.
Read more: Three-Stone Engagement Rings
Cathedral Setting
Elevates the diamond with graceful arches, adding height and drama to your ring while still feeling vintage.
Radiant Cut Diamond Designs You Can Opt For
Make your proposal sparkle with the elegance of a Radiant Cut
Solitaire Setting
Perfect for a sleek, modern look. Radiant cuts have brilliant faceting that sparkles even in simple settings.
Double Halo
Enhances the fire of the radiant cut and makes the diamond appear larger. Ideal for a bold, glamorous aesthetic.
Pavé Band
Tiny diamonds along the band boost sparkle without taking focus away from the radiant centre stone.
East-West Orientation
A trendy setting where a rectangular radiant cut is set horizontally, creating a fresh, fashion-forward vibe.
Three-Stone Ring
Radiant centre stones pair beautifully with trapezoid or half-moon side stones for a dramatic look.
Hidden Halo
A modern twist that keeps the face-up view clean but adds side sparkle, often paired with a diamond bridge.
Coloured Gem Accents
Radiant cuts work beautifully with side stones like sapphires or emeralds, adding colour contrast to the brilliance.
Read more: Cushion vs. Solitaire
It's All About Personal Preference
Deciding between an Asscher cut diamond and a radiant cut lab grown diamond boils down to your style and preferences. If you're looking for flash, brilliance, and a slightly larger face-up look, the radiant cut is your best bet. If you appreciate timelessness, symmetry, and a distinct vintage look, the Asscher cut will be your soulmate.
Thanks to lab grown diamonds, you don't have to sacrifice style or budget. Whether you fall head over heels for the geometric beauty of the Asscher or the blinding brilliance of the Radiant, you're bound to discover a gem that mirrors your personality—and shines just the way you like it to. So why wait? Visit GIVA’s nearest store and get your dream ring in any of your favourite diamond cut for life.
Explore: Try Made-to-order option at GIVA stores
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