The Brilliance Definition: Understanding Old European Brilliant Cuts

In the world of diamonds, brilliance refers to the ability of a gemstone to refract light and display its beauty. When it comes to old European brilliant cuts, understanding their unique characteristics is essential for appreciating their historic significance. In this article, we will delve into the definition of brilliance and explore how old European brilliant cuts differ from modern round brilliants.

The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) introduced a cut-grading system in 2005 specifically designed to evaluate unmodified round brilliant-cut diamonds. This system assesses the design quality and craftsmanship of older-style brilliant-cut diamonds, taking into account their proportions, facet arrangement, and overall beauty. The GIA Cut-Grading System for Unmodified Brilliant-Cut Diamonds is based on modern-day conventions, evaluating the combination of brightness, fire, scintillation, and pattern.

Old European brilliant cuts, also known as transitional cuts, were popular between the 1870s and the 1940s. These gems typically exhibit larger face-up patterns of light and dark, often described as a 'checkerboard' or 'blocky' pattern. In contrast to modern round brilliants, old European brilliant cuts have a smaller table (38.5%), a higher crown, shorter lower halves, and a much larger culet.

The unique characteristics of old European brilliant cuts are largely due to their history. Prior to the introduction of modern cutting techniques, diamond cutters used different methods to maximize brilliance. As a result, older gems often display a more subtle, gentle sparkle compared to modern brilliants. Some trade professionals refer to these gems as 'transitional cuts' because they served as a bridge between older and more-modern styles.

Recent fluctuations in the market have led to an increase in demand for older-style diamonds, making it easier for consumers to appreciate their historic significance. Whether you prefer the sparkle of modern brilliants or the charm of old European brilliant cuts, understanding the brilliance definition is essential for appreciating these beautiful gemstones.

Brilliance definition