These two diamond cuts can look quite similar, as they’re both rectangles with blunted corners. However, the faceting structure is quite different. Emerald cuts are faceted with what’s known as a “step cut”, which is a series of long, parallel lines (like a flight of steps). Emerald cut diamonds don’t sparkle in the way that traditionally cut diamonds do - instead, they display a “hall of mirrors” effect of light and shadow that is quite spectacular. Radiant cuts, by contrast, are closer to the brilliant fire and scintillation of a traditional round brilliant. They exhibit a wonderful sparkle and flashes of colored light. Both radiants and emerald cuts are absolutely stunning but in very different ways. If possible, see if you can look at the two of them side by side to see which one is right for you.