Cushion Brilliant vs Cushion Modified Brilliant: What's the Difference?

​If you’re fascinated by cushion-cut diamonds, you’re not alone – they are one of the most popular shapes of all time and a best-seller at Ritani. But not all cushion diamonds are cut the same way or look the same – some cushion cuts are classified as a “cushion brilliant”, while others are classified as a “cushion modified brilliant”. A diamond’s GIA report will indicate whether it is a cushion brilliant or a cushion modified brilliant. Keep reading to learn the differences between the two.  ​

Cushion Brilliant

The cushion brilliant, the precursor to the cushion modified brilliant, has larger, chunkier facets. A diamond’s facets are its flat surfaces.  

The faceting style of the cushion brilliant is quite similar to the round brilliant. Both the cushion brilliant and round brilliant have 57 facets. At the pavilion, the facets are arranged in a star-like pattern that reaches the stone’s girdle. These facets are called the pavilion mains. 

​Please note – these illustrations were taken from GIA reports. The green and red lines indicate inclusions on that particular diamond.  ​

The cushion brilliant can have anywhere from 4, 6, 8, or 10 pavilion mains. Cushion brilliants with more mains will have more fire and more brilliance.  

A cushion brilliant with 4 mains vs 8 mains

The cushion brilliant is a much rarer cut than the cushion modified brilliant. If you do find a cushion brilliant, it will likely be much more expensive than the cushion modified brilliant.  

Cushion Modified Brilliant

The cushion modified brilliant is known for its crushed ice appearance, making it look very similar to the radiant cut. Most of the cushion-cut diamonds that you will find on the market are modified brilliants. Cutting a cushion modified brilliant uses less diamond waste, making it the preferred choice for diamond cutters. Since they produce less waste, they tend to be less expensive than the cushion brilliant.  

The cushion modified brilliant has different pavilion facets than the cushion brilliant.  

The pavilion mains are shorter, and extra facets are added below the girdle. These shorter pavilion mains contribute to this cut’s sharp but shorter sparkles that resemble glistening water.

However, not all cushion modified brilliants will have a crushed ice appearance.

​Cushion Modified Brilliant Hybrid  ​

This hybrid combines aspects of the cushion brilliant and the cushion modified brilliant. It’s important to note that "cushion modified brilliant hybrid" will not be listed on a GIA report; it will still be called a cushion modified brilliant in its report. The only way to tell the difference between a cushion modified brilliant and a hybrid is to use your eyes.  

In the cushion hybrid, the pavilion mains extend all the way to the girdle, whereas they stop short in the cushion modified brilliant.  

The extended mains in the cushion hybrid are what cause the X-like shape at the center of the stone’s table. If you are having trouble telling whether your cushion-cut diamond has the extended pavilion mains, look at its GIA report, which will include an illustration of the stone’s facets, as long as it is 1 carat or larger. 

The benefit of the hybrid cushion cut is that it provides the brilliance of the cushion brilliant without wasting too much of the rough diamond in the cutting process.  

Which cushion-cut style should you choose?  

It’s really all about preference. Some people love the crushed ice appearance that the cushion modified brilliant provides. Crushed ice cushion-cuts provide more of a modern look, while the cushion brilliant or cushion modified brilliant hybrid’s larger facets have vintage influences. However, if you prefer the appearance of the cushion brilliant, you’ll have better luck finding a cushion modified brilliant hybrid instead, which is cut and sold more frequently. 

Find the Perfect Cushion-Cut Diamond Today 

Up Next: How to Buy a Cushion Cut Engagement Ring