Cushion Brilliant vs. Cushion Modified Brilliant: Differences and Tips to Choose
Key Takeaways
- Cushion brilliant cuts feature larger, symmetrical facets that create a soft, even glow.
- Cushion modified brilliant cuts include additional or elongated facets that enhance light reflection, giving the diamond a more modern appearance.
- Choosing between them depends on whether you prefer a balanced, traditional look or extra brilliance with a contemporary edge—both within the cushion cut family.
Many people love cushion cuts for their soft, rounded corners and balanced proportions. Often described as a cross between a round and a princess cut, the cushion cut features curved edges and large facets.
When you’re shopping for a cushion cut diamond, you’ll quickly discover two main styles to choose from: cushion brilliant and cushion modified brilliant. While they share the same romantic, pillow-like shape, the difference lies in how the diamond’s facets are arranged.
Understanding these subtle variations can help you decide which diamond best fits your style, budget and vision for the perfect ring. Let’s explore how they compare so you can make a confident choice.
Key Differences Between Cushion Modified Brilliant and Cushion Brilliant Cuts
When comparing cushion brilliant vs. cushion modified brilliant, the differences come down to facet structure, sparkle style and rarity.
Both cuts share the timeless cushion shape, which blends the soft curves of a round diamond with the squared edges of a princess cut. Its rounded corners and domed crown give it a plush, dimensional appearance, almost as if the diamond has slightly softened over time.
Cushion modified brilliant hybrid cuts combine elements of the two, each offering a distinct look that appeals to different preferences. To put it in perspective, here’s a quick breakdown:
Category
Brilliant
Modified brilliant
Modified brilliant hybrid
Facet size
Larger, broader
Smaller, tightly packed
Medium—not as broad as brilliant, not as tiny as modified
Facet number
Typically 58 facets
Typically 64–70 facets
Typically 58–64 facets
Internal pattern
Defined “flower”
Crushed ice
Mix of both
Sparkle
Bold flashes
Scattered sparkle
Blended sparkle
Fire
Strong bursts
Softer, dispersed
Moderate
Brilliance
High
Moderate
Balanced
Rarity
Less common
More common
Rare
Price range
Higher
Lower
Mid-range
Both styles have a rich place in the history of diamond shapes, tracing back to when gemcutters began refining the classic old mine cut to maximize brilliance and symmetry. Modern designs even expand into options like the elongated cushion cut, which provides a flattering, finger-lengthening effect.
Cushion Modified Brilliant Cut
To understand what a cushion modified brilliant is, think of it as a modern twist on the classic cushion cut. Gemcutters adjust the facet pattern to create a softer, “crushed ice” sparkle.
This style is especially popular if you’re looking for a more contemporary, budget-friendly way to enjoy the romance of a cushion diamond. Here are some of the features that set it apart:
- Facets: Cushion modified brilliants usually have 64–70 facets. These smaller facets create more sparkle points than the traditional cushion brilliant.
- Internal pattern: Instead of the defined “flower” look, you’ll see a crushed ice effect—sparkle that appears scattered across the stone.
- Pavilions: Cutters often add extra facets to the pavilion (the bottom of the diamond), enhancing the overall brilliance while softening the internal pattern.
- Fire and brilliance: Expect more subtle flashes of color (fire) and a slightly more diffused light return compared to the bold sparkle of a brilliant cushion.
- Rarity and price: Cushion modified brilliants are more common and usually come at a lower price point, making them an attractive option for value-focused buyers.
Cushion Brilliant Cut
The cushion brilliant cut has long been a favorite for those who love classic elegance with a touch of sparkle. Known for its soft, rounded corners and larger facets, it reflects light beautifully, making it a timeless choice for a cushion diamond.
When comparing cushion brilliant vs. modified cuts, the cushion brilliant stands out for its distinctive shine and symmetrical appeal. Here are the features that make this cut so special:
- Facets: Cushion brilliant diamonds typically feature larger facets that allow light to dance across the stone in deep, fiery flashes.
- Internal pattern: The internal facet arrangement creates a soft, romantic pattern that’s visible when viewing the diamond face-up.
- Pavilions: Deeper pavilions in cushion brilliants help direct light back to the eye, contributing to a lively, captivating appearance.
- Fire and brilliance: With their precise facet structure, cushion brilliants offer exceptional fire and brilliance, balancing bright flashes with colorful dispersion.
- Rarity and price: While widely admired, high-quality cushion brilliant diamonds can be rarer than standard shapes, sometimes making them a slightly higher investment.
Understanding the differences in light performance and patterning can help guide your choice when comparing diamond styles.
Cushion brilliants, like round and oval cuts, belong to the brilliant cut family, known for their dynamic fire. This contrasts with step-cut diamonds, like emerald cuts, which emphasize clarity and elegant flashes of light instead.
Knowing where each style falls on that spectrum can help you choose the look that best fits your taste.
Cushion Modified Brilliant Hybrid Cut
The cushion modified brilliant hybrid cut adds a modern twist to the classic cushion shape. It keeps the rounded corners but updates the facet arrangement for extra sparkle.
This hybrid cut may suit someone who wants the romance of a cushion shaped diamond with enhanced brilliance. Compared to a standard cushion brilliant, it reflects more light and offers unique internal patterns.
- Facets: While the cushion brilliant shows bold flashes, the cushion modified brilliant’s blend of traditional and elongated facets creates smaller, more frequent bursts of light, creating extra shimmer and a modern “crushed ice” look.
- Internal pattern: The hybrid facet design creates a dynamic pattern that shifts as the diamond moves.
- Pavilions: Slightly shallower or angled pavilions amplify brightness and light return.
- Fire and brilliance: The hybrid structure delivers lively fire and brilliance, making the stone captivating from every angle.
- Rarity and price: Cushion modified brilliant hybrids are less common than standard cushions, making them distinctive. Price depends on cut quality and light performance.
How to Choose Between a Brilliant and Modified Brilliant Cushion Cut Diamond
The choice between a cushion brilliant and a cushion modified brilliant depends on your desired look. The modified version emphasizes light performance and modern appeal, while the classic brilliant offers a symmetrical facet pattern and a soft, rounded shape that enhances depth and fire.
Choose a cushion modified brilliant cut if you want maximum sparkle and a contemporary edge. Its hybrid facets and optimized pavilions make the diamond lively from every angle. Because it’s less common and often more precisely cut, it can be priced slightly higher. Size, clarity and facet precision also influence the cost.
Choose a brilliant cushion cut if you prefer a romantic, classic look with soft corners and a warm internal pattern. Its symmetrical pattern offers elegant fire and subtle brilliance. This cut is often a more budget-friendly diamond option than the modified version, though pricing still depends on size, clarity and overall cut quality.
Find Your Perfect Cushion Cut Diamond Ring
Whether you choose a cushion modified brilliant or a classic cushion brilliant, both cuts offer timeless beauty and unique sparkle. Understanding their differences helps you pick a diamond that matches your style and budget.
Once you’re ready to explore your options, browse our selection of cushion cut engagement rings to find the diamond that speaks to your style. Our diamond experts are here to help you compare cuts, sizes and settings so you can make a confident choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are cushion cut diamonds more expensive?
Cushion cut diamonds can vary in price depending on size, clarity, and cut quality.
Traditional cushion brilliant cuts tend to be rarer and more expensive due to their classic facet design, while cushion modified brilliants are generally more common and may be more affordable.
What is the difference between radiant and cushion brilliant?
A radiant cut has a rectangular or square shape with trimmed corners and a more geometric facet pattern, while a cushion brilliant has rounded corners and larger, softer facets.
Radiants often emphasize brilliance in a more structured way, whereas cushions offer a romantic, vintage-style sparkle.
Do cushion cut diamonds sparkle?
Yes, cushion cut diamonds sparkle beautifully, especially in the brilliant or modified brilliant styles. Their facet arrangement allows for excellent light reflection, creating both fire and brilliance that draws the eye.
What is the difference between a cushion cut and a brilliant cut?
A cushion cut refers to the shape of the diamond, with soft, rounded corners, while a brilliant cut refers to the facet arrangement designed to maximize sparkle. A cushion brilliant combines the classic cushion shape with the brilliance of a round cut to enhance light performance.
