Old European Cut vs Round Brilliant

Welcome to The Clear Cut Classroom, where we take deep dives into all things diamonds (and jewelry)! In this episode, we talk about Old European cuts and Round Brilliant cuts. This classic diamond shape is a staple, but what makes these two different? Listen in to learn more!

Watch the full video below:

The old European cut is the ancestor of today’s modern round brilliant cut. From far away, they look super similar because of the round shape! But closeup, you will notice certain differences. The old euro has larger facets and a culet (a point at the bottom of the stone). It also has a small table facet and a steep crown angle! 

The round brilliant is the only cut with an actual cut grade. We recommend excellent for the cut, polish and symmetry grades. It is known for being super sparkly and having a classic shape and silhouette. 

Don’t worry if the cut grade for an old euro is low because that is what gives it its charm! They are all hand-cut and imperfect. No two old euros are the same and each one is super special!

People ask me all the time which is a better price?  Round brilliants tend to me more expensive, but within the perfect cut grade, you have some wiggle room with the color and sometimes clarity too. With old euros, a lot of them in the higher color grades have been recut to be round brilliants. This means that many old euros have a lower color grade -- and that is totally okay! They can still face up perfectly white and bright!

All in all, they are both stunning picks! The old euro is unique, timeless and charming. The round brilliant is classic and so sparkly! What’s your favorite?

Let us know what you want to see next week in the comments below!

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