By reuvenveksler
January 29, 2023
5 min read

Trillion cut diamonds: the ultimate buyer’s guide

Trillion cut diamonds: the ultimate buyer’s guide

The trillion cut is now a common option for side stones in many types of jewelry. However, those looking for a substitute to the traditional selections can also find success with this cut as a central stone.

This post will define the cut, go over its pros and cons, and outline what to look for in a trillion cut diamond, whether you want to use it as a center stone or a side stone.

Regardless of where a trillion cut is placed in the jewelry design, the intention is to offer advice on how to locate one that is stunning.


What is a trillion cut?

The triangular form of a trillion cut diamond consists of three equal sides and a flat top. The brilliance, fire, and striking appearance of such cuts make them stand out.

Trillion cuts make excellent accent stones in rings, such as a three-stone ring, although they are rarely used as the main stone. Nevertheless, the heart of certain jewelry designs actually use the cuts.

Depending on whether they are used as an accent or center stone, such gems have different cuts and shapes.

A trillion with 50 facets and a small curvature to make it look larger is typically intended for the center. A trillion accent stone often has straight edges and thirty-one facets. However, trillion cut precious stones are extremely uncommon, especially when used as center stones.

History of a trillion cut

The cut is a relatively new version of the diamond cut; it originated in the 1960s. The trademark belonged to the New York-based Henry Meyer Diamond Company.

That being said, it is thought that some of the first trillion-cut diamonds were cut in Amsterdam as early as the 1800s.

The name “trillion” is a compound of the terms “triangle” and “brilliant” due to the diamond’s brilliant cut and triangular facets.

When to choose a trillion cut diamond?

As previously mentioned, side stones are typically cut to a trillion cut. Nevertheless, accent diamonds can also be made out of trillion-cut diamonds. And there are a lot of valid explanations for this. Among them are a few of them: 

  • When compared to round brilliant cut diamonds of the same carat weight, such gems appear larger. Moreover, the surface area of these stones is almost 12% larger;
  • Trillion cut are a great option for white diamonds that come in various colors since they effectively mask coloration;
  • Trillion cut diamonds also cost less than round brilliant diamonds of the same weight;
  • This cut diamonds exhibit mesmerizing radiance and internal fire;
  • Trillion cut diamonds stand apart from other diamond cuts – they are unusual and immediately draw attention. They are also a great option for a modern aesthetic.

When NOT to choose a trillion cut diamond?

Everything has disadvantages and downsides. Trillion-cut diamonds are also not immune to this. We’ll tell you ahead of time what to consider while choosing trillion cut diamonds. 

  • Even while diamonds are known for their strength, which makes them resistant to scratches, a trillion cut gem’s sharp edges run the risk of chipping and breaking. As a result, setting such diamonds in a bezel mounting or on V-shaped prongs is preferred.
  • The limited availability of a trillion cut is another drawback. You will have to work hard to locate the exact stone you want because there aren’t many stones available in this cut.

Trillion cut prices

Like diamonds in other cuts, trillion cut stones are priced according to a few characteristics, mostly color, clarity, carat, and of course cut. The gemstone is more expensive and valuable the higher these qualities are.

Since most trillion cut stones are set in jewelry, the type of setting, total number of diamonds, and total carat weight can all affect the price.

Trillion cut quality

There are no set standards for the cut quality of trillion cut diamonds. When considering a purchase, there are a few factors you should pay particular attention to.

Depth: 32-48%

Table: 50-70%

Length-to-width ratio: 1 – 1.10

What to look for when buying a trillion cut diamond?

Prior to anything else, you must choose whether you want a side stone or a center stone for your trillion cut diamond. You don’t need to carefully consider your options if you’re searching for side stones, which means you don’t need to look closely at the 4Cs. In that instance, it suffices to view the diamond in person, determine whether it is free of flaws, and determine whether it harmonizes well with the center stone.

All is different, though, if you are searching for the core stone. Here are some pieces of advice:

  • Examine the diamond’s depth to ensure the cut is not too shallow.
  • Select a gemstone that appears free of inclusions to the naked eye – there’s no need to overpay for a Flawless clarity grade when eye-clean will suffice. This means the diamond has no blemishes or flaws visible without magnification.
  • Pick a colorless looking stone once placed in its setting.

Subscribe to discover the world of diamonds and gems. If you have any questions, please let us know. 

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