Cut refers to both the shape and the faceting of a diamond. A rose cut diamond typically has between twelve and twenty-four facets, as opposed to a brilliant cut diamond which has between fifty-seven and fifty-eight facets. Because there are fewer facets in a rose cut diamond, it is more transparent. With fewer facets, this also means that each facet is more noticeable. 

When considering a rose cut diamond, designer Melanie Casey recommends precisely placed facets to ensure it reflects the maximum amount of light. Because a rose cut diamond shines with luster rather than brilliance, maximizing the reflectability of a rose cut engagement ring will harness more sparkle.

In addition to faceting within the diamond, it’s important to consider the shape of the stone when selecting a rose cut diamond. To quote designer, Melanie Casey “Be wary of rose cuts that are too flat and ensure a tall enough dome at the top of the stone”. These factors will also affect the amount of light that filters through your rose cut diamond ring. 

Melanie Casey Fine Jewelry uses rose cut diamonds often and most of our rose cut diamonds are custom-cut for our exclusive collection. Because founder and designer Melanie Casey is an expert in diamonds and gemstones, she hand selects or orders custom cuttings of each rose cut diamond we source. This ensures that the shape and the faceting are cut for superior luminescence.

While cut is certainly important when it comes to selecting a rose cut diamond, probably the most important of the 4 C’s (cut, color, clarity, and carat) to consider is clarity. The reason that clarity is so important stems back to the faceting. Because clarity refers to the number of inclusions, or flaws, within or on the diamond, and fewer facets mean a more transparent diamond, a rose cut diamond will show flaws and inclusions more clearly than a brilliant diamond. 

If you are forced to choose between having a rose cut diamond with better clarity or color, designer Melanie Casey recommends prioritizing clarity, especially if set in yellow gold. On the other end of the spectrum, stones that get their beauty from inclusions, like salt and pepper diamonds, are best suited to the rose cut because the minimal faceting allows the unique flecks within the diamond to stand out. 

Okay, so you’ve got that perfect rose cut diamond ring but now you’re worried about maintaining that subtle sparkle for a lifetime? 

The transparency of a rose cut diamond is again at the center of our conversation. Because a rose cut diamond is so transparent, dirt and grime (just like inclusions) will show more easily in a rose cut engagement ring. It’s important to keep your rose cut diamond ring clean to keep it sparkling. Founder and designer Melanie Casey recommends weekly at-home cleaning of a rose cut engagement ring. 

Now that you know Melanie’s tips for sourcing, let’s see what she does with a rose cut diamond!