A brilliant is a diamond or other gemstone, cut in a particular form with numerous facets so as to have exceptional brilliance. The shape resembles that of a cone and provides maximized light return through the top of the diamond. Even with modern techniques, the cutting and polishing of a diamond crystal always result in a dramatic loss of weight; rarely is it less than 50%. The round brilliant cut is preferred when the crystal is an octahedron, as often two stones may be cut from one such crystal. Oddly shaped crystals such as macles are more likely to be cut in a fancy cut—that is, a cut other than the round brilliant—which the particular crystal shape lends itself to. ref: wiki
Princess Cut
The Princess cut is the second most popular cut shape for diamonds, next to a round brilliant. The face-up shape of the princess cut is square or rectangular and the profile or side-on shape is similar to that of an inverted pyramid with four beveled sides. The princess cut is a relatively new diamond cut, having been created in the 1960s. It has gained in popularity in recent years as a more distinctive alternative to the more popular round brilliant cut, in which the top of diamond, called the crown, is cut with a round face-up shape and the bottom, called the pavilion, is shaped similar to a cone. Ref: wiki
Pear Cut
One of the most famous pear shaped diamonds is the Sun-Drop Diamond. It was found in South Africa in 2010 within a kimberlite pipe. Tests show that the diamond was formed from 1 to 3 billion years ago. The pear shape is a combination of the round and marquise brilliant cuts and usually has a facet brilliant pattern. The unique look of the pear shape helps make it a popular choice for a variety of diamond jewelry. ref: wiki
Oval Cut
The oval is a brilliant cut diamond because it is made very much like a round brilliant cut diamond. The oval diamond is seen most frequently cut in the standard 58 facet brilliant pattern. Oval diamonds are another popular choice for engagement rings or for any diamond retailer.
Marquise Cut
Modified brilliants include the marquise or navette (French for "little boat", because it resembles the hull of a sailboat), heart, triangular trillion (also trillian or trilliant), oval, and the pear or drop cuts. These are the most commonly encountered modified brilliants; Oval-shaped diamonds have been created and introduced by Lazare Kaplan way back in the 1960s. Usually noted to have 56 facets, the weight of such diamonds is estimated by measuring the length and width of the stone. ref: wiki
Heart Cut
A Heart cut diamond has romantic symbolism so it is a common gift for Valentine's Day or wedding anniversary. The stunning look of the heart-shaped diamond helps make it a fantastic choice for a variety of diamond jewelry. The heart shape is a brilliant cut which that can be modified so that the number of pavilion main facets may be 6, 7, or 8. ref: wiki
Emerald Cut
The word "Emerald" is derived (via Old French: Esmeraude and Middle English: Emeraude), from Vulgar Latin: Esmaralda/Esmaraldus. Emeralds, like all colored gemstones, are graded using four basic parameters – the four Cs of Connoisseurship: Color, Cut, Clarity and Crystal. The last C, crystal is simply used as a synonym that begins with C for transparency or what gemologists call diaphaneity. ref: wiki
Asscher Cut
The asscher cut diamonds are very fashionable and make fantastic engagement rings. This Diamond boasts 8 edges and projects an awesome fire when cut correctly. Asscher cut diamond engagement rings require four-pronged metal settings. wiki
Radiant Cut
The Radiant cut diamond also has 8 edges like the Asscher cut diamond, but is longer in length. The Original Radiant Cut represents the fusion of the elegant shape emerald cut, with the brilliance of the round stone. ref: wiki
Cushion Cut
Cushion cut diamonds have seen a huge rise in popularity. The cushion cut is an antique cut, pillow-cut or candlelight diamond that most often resembles a cross between the Old Mine Cut and a modern oval cut. This cut is not as fiery or brilliant as many of the newer cuts, but it has a romantic and classic long lasting look and inspires difference. wiki
