What Does Modified Brilliant Cut Mean? All You Need to Know

Modified brilliant cut diamonds are stones that have been cut in such a way as to enhance their brilliance as much as possible. But unlike a traditional brilliant cut diamond that is always in the shape of a  round diamond, modified brilliant cuts come in different shapes.

There are many reasons why you might want to purchase a modified brilliant diamond, but deciding whether or not it’s a good fit for your ring requires digging deeper and asking a few questions, such as:

• What does modified brilliant cut mean in terms of diamond appearance, durability, and cost?
• What diamonds are classified as modified brilliants?
• What are the pros and cons of a modified brilliant cut diamond?

 Keep reading for everything you should know about modified brilliant stones.

Diamond Cut Vs. Shape

One important fact to know when shopping for any kind of gem, modified brilliant diamond or not, is that cut and shape are two very different things. Diamond cuts are classified according to how the stone’s facets and angles have been cut and arranged to produce sparkle and reflection. On the other hand, diamond shape refers to the actual style of the stone, such as round or square. 

You can have many different shapes of diamonds that all share the same cut, as is the case with the modified brilliant cut. What makes it distinct is the way its facets are arranged for the greatest amount of brilliance possible. 

What Is Diamond Brilliance?

When we refer to brilliance, we’re talking about the degree to which the diamond reflects white light back to the viewer. A greater brilliance is generally considered more desirable.

Brilliant Diamonds Vs. Modified Brilliant Diamonds

Traditionally, a brilliant diamond is always round, while a modified brilliant diamond can come in a range of shapes.

Traditional brilliant round cut diamonds always feature 57-58 facets, including 33 on the diamond’s upper portion and 25 on the diamond’s lower portion, with the upper and lower areas divided by the diamond’s widest point. The cutting method used adds exceptional sparkle to round cut diamonds. Cut grade — one of the 4 Cs — tells you how well or poorly the diamond adheres to these expectations.

The modified brilliant cut takes similar cutting methods and applies them to different shapes, resulting in a comparable sparkle to round brilliant cut diamonds.

Types of Modified Brilliant Diamonds

Technically, any shape of diamond could be a modified brilliant diamond, but some shapes more frequently exhibit this cut, including:

Additionally, there are some square modified brilliant diamonds that may exhibit this style as well, including princess cut diamonds, cushion cut diamonds, and radiant cut diamonds.

Why Choose a Modified Brilliant Cut Diamond?

Brilliant shapes are always more “sparkly” than step cut diamonds, and opting for a modified brilliant cut versus a traditional round brilliant cut diamond can save you money. Traditional round brilliant cut diamonds are generally the most expensive style, so opting for the less-expensive modified brilliant can be a budget-friendly alternative.

Beyond sparkle, shine, and cost, it’s also worth noting that a modified brilliant cut diamond can add potentially more visual interest to a more traditional piece of jewelry. 

For example, for an engagement ring, many opt for a round brilliant diamond, or if they do veer off into modified brilliant shapes, they might choose a princess cut. However, opting for something like a pear-shaped diamond or oval diamond can give you more of a unique look without sacrificing brilliance.

Are There Any Reasons to Avoid a Modified Brilliant Cut Diamond?

There’s one key reason to avoid a modified brilliant cut diamond, which is the fact that many feature sharp edges that render the diamond more susceptible to damage. In general, the rounder the diamond, the more durable it is. On the other hand, diamonds with multiple angles can be easily snagged or chipped.

As such, when deciding whether or not a modified brilliant cut is the right choice, you’ll want to consider the care that’s necessary to keep this diamond shape safe.

What to Look for in a Modified Brilliant Cut Diamond

No matter what shape of modified brilliant cut diamond you end up going with, always look for two key things while shopping: sparkle and a high-cut grade.

• You always want the greatest degree of brilliance possible, so really examine the diamond, turning it in the light to see how it flashes and shines. Ask the jeweler if you can compare a modified brilliant cut and a round brilliant cut side-by-side, so you can see the differences and similarities.
• Any diamond that you buy should come with a grading report. It should list a certification as a modified brilliant cut and, if it’s a round cut, will give the diamond an “excellent” or “very good” cut grade. Other shapes besides round will provide symmetry and polish grades that should fall in the same tiers. You likely won’t want to go any lower than that for a sentimental piece of jewelry such as an engagement ring, as the diamond’s appearance begins to suffer.

Modified Brilliant Diamond FAQs

What’s the Difference Between Modified Brilliant Cut and Traditional Brilliant Cut Diamonds?

Both the modified brilliant cut and the traditional brilliant cut result in a very sparkly, shiny diamond, but the traditional style is always round and features a certain number and arrangement of facets. On the other hand, the modified brilliant cut has been adapted to fit a range of diamond shapes, including pear, oval, heart, and more. 

Are Brilliant Cut or Modified Brilliant Cuts More Expensive?

Brilliant cut diamonds are typically more expensive than modified brilliant cuts. In fact, brilliant cut round diamonds are generally the most expensive diamond options. However, a myriad of other factors can also influence diamond price, including carat weight, diamond color, and diamond clarity. 

What Are the Most Popular Diamond Cuts?

Where engagement rings are concerned, the most popular diamond cuts currently are pear and oval. If you’re looking for a less-popular and more unique cut for an engagement ring, consider a modified brilliant cut in an interesting shape such as a heart. 

What Diamond Shapes Appear the Largest?

Typically, diamond shapes that are elongated or rectangular will appear larger. These include the marquise cut, emerald cut, and pear-shaped diamonds.

Do Modified Brilliant Cuts Require Special Care?

Modified brilliant cuts do not require any special care unless you purchase a modified brilliant diamond in a shape that features pointed edges, such as a pear shape or marquise shape. The pointed edges are more susceptible to damage and can easily snag or chip under the right conditions. As such, wearers will need to take special care to avoid damage.

Protect Your Diamond Ring with BriteCo Jewelry Insurance

Comprehensive specialty jewelry insurance will help you repair or replace your diamond ring if you accidentally damage it. Remember how easy it can be to damage those pointed modified brilliant cuts! It also is a lifesaver if the ring is stolen, or you simply lose it and have no idea where it’s gone.

Whether you go with a modified brilliant cut or a step cut diamond, make sure that your diamond ring is protected. Get your BriteCo jewelry insurance quote now.

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