Diamond Shape Guide
Round Brilliant
The round brilliant cut is the world's most popular diamond shape — engineered for maximum light return and unparalleled fire.
58 facetsShop Round Brilliant Diamonds
About the Round Brilliant
Developed over centuries and perfected in 1919 by Marcel Tolkowsky, the round brilliant cut features 58 precisely angled facets designed to maximise the return of light to the eye. It remains the benchmark against which all other shapes are measured. More than 75% of all diamonds sold worldwide are round brilliants — a testament to their timeless appeal and unmatched optical performance. The mathematical precision of the cut means that a well-proportioned round brilliant will exhibit exceptional brilliance (white light reflection), fire (spectral colours), and scintillation (pattern of light and dark).
360° View
Animated 360° rotation — see how light moves through the round brilliant cut
Characteristics
- Maximum brilliance and fire of any shape
- Most forgiving of inclusions due to facet pattern
- Unmatched light performance when well-cut
- Classic, timeless silhouette
Ideal Settings
- Solitaire
- Four-prong
- Halo
- Pave band
- Three-stone
Advantages
- Superior light return — the most brilliant of all shapes
- Versatile — suits every setting style
- Most extensive cut grading data available
- Hides inclusions and colour better than step-cuts
Considerations
- Premium pricing due to rough wastage during cutting
- Smaller face-up size per carat than elongated shapes
- Ubiquity — less distinctive for those seeking uniqueness
Size Guide
A 1-carat round measures approximately 6.5mm in diameter. For a visible presence on the finger, most clients prefer 0.90ct and above. The round shape appears slightly smaller face-up than oval or marquise of the same carat weight.
Shop Round Brilliant Diamonds
Browse our live inventory of round brilliant diamonds — GIA and IGI certified.