The rose cut diamond is one of the world’s oldest diamond cuts, first crafted in the mid-16th century and only increasing in popularity and complexity for centuries after. A rose cut diamond features a flat bottom, domed top, and, typically twelve to twenty-four triangular facets. The faceting pattern is meant to look like the spiral petals of a rose.

The flat bottom and triangular facets of rose cut diamonds make them slightly more transparent than the brilliant diamond, which has a flat top and a pointed pavilion on the bottom. This also causes rose cut diamonds to reflect light differently. Rather than scintillate with a bright sparkle, the rose cut diamond showcases a subtle luster by design. Rose cut diamonds were first introduced before the invention of electricity! Their facets were designed to look best in candlelight by dispersing and reflecting low, flickering flames.

With the history of the rose cut diamond in your back pocket, the next question becomes: what is a rose cut diamond in today’s trending jewelry? 

In a world filled with brilliant diamonds, rose cut diamonds offer something different. Rose cut diamonds are decidedly antique because of their history but also because of their soft appearance. Even when they aren’t mirroring candlelight, they look like they belong dripping from a chandelier in a drawing room.

Because of their antique nature, they lend a softness to any piece. You may choose a rose cut engagement ring if your style leans more classical or romantic. As procuring vintage finds has become increasingly more popular, rose cut diamonds have experienced a huge resurgence for the very same reason many love a good thrift: they’re romantic, nostalgic, and unique.

While round is the most common shape for a rose cut diamond, it’s by no means the only shape available! Rose cut diamonds appear in many shapes, from oval to pear to marquise. While a rose cut diamond leans antique, just like with any focal stone, the surrounding details can affect the mood of the ring. A solitaire rose cut diamond ring in a bezel setting might feel more antique than a rose cut in a pave setting.

A rose cut diamond is also the perfect match for low-profile engagement rings because of its flat bottom and domed top. The flat bottom of a rose cut diamond can rest comfortably in a low-profile setting, unlike a brilliant diamond whose pointed pavilion gets in the way. This is one of the primary reasons you may decide on a rose cut engagement ring. Stay with us and we’ll let you in on even more reasons founder and designer Melanie Casey recommends low-profile engagement rings with rose cut diamonds.