Transitional Cut Diamond is a unique diamond cutting method that was born in the late 19th  and early 20th centuries to fill the gap between round and cushion cut diamonds. This cutting method cleverly combines a variety of cutting techniques to present a richer and more diverse visual effect for the diamond, which is favored by diamond collectors and enthusiasts.

What is a transitional cut diamond

The transition cut is a transition between the old European cut (OEC) and the modern Round Bright Cut (RBC). Transitional cut diamonds are characterized by a round shape with 57 or 58 facets, similar to the round bright cut, but with a higher crown and deeper pavilion than the round bright cut tool. This gives the diamond a slightly more antique appearance than the modern round bright cut, while still maintaining the brightness and fire color of the modern cut.

History of transitional cut diamonds

Before transition-cut diamonds, all diamonds were cut by hand and in a dimly lit working environment, which is what we call "Old mine cut" or "Old European cut." In 1876, the American Charles M. Field obtained the first modern diamond cutting machine, which was powered by steam and diamond saws, but it was not as accurate as the modern round bright cutting, because workers had to explore the use of their own, and later the spread of electric lighting. The transitional cut diamond is characterized by a variety of proportions, angles and facets.

The cut was in existence for such a short time that GIA did not classify it as its own.

What does a transitional cut diamond look like?

 Transitional cut diamonds connect the heavy weight of old European diamonds with today's gorgeous bright diamonds，which gives the diamond a strong retro feel while at the same time retaining the great glow of modern round bright cuts. Compared to previous OECs, they have a larger table top, lower crown, and smaller base tip, but thanks to continuous optimization by the cutter, this cut can have a variety of angles, proportions, and facets. Some gemstones exhibit the famous checkerboard pattern, which is one of the more distinctive features of the transition cut. The 1920s and 1940s saw the cutting of these rare stones, marking a truly unique era in history.

If a gem has a small table top, an open bottom tip (traditionally small for transition cutters), a large facet, a medium to thick millstone, and a deep pavilion, then it is likely a transition cut. The role of the bottom tip is very important because modern round bright diamonds have no bottom tip at all.

It combines the brilliance of the round cut with the elegance of the cushion cut, and with the development of The Times, the transitional cut diamond has gradually taken a place in the fashion and art design world. This unique cutting method provides designers with a broader creative space, allowing them to design more creative and personalized jewelry. Whether it is a retro engagement ring or an avant-garde modern pendant, transitional cut diamonds can add a unique charm.

Transitional cut diamond value

Transitional cut diamonds blend the features of old European cut and modern round brilliant cut, by adjusting the cut angle and proportion to create a fuller, more three-dimensional diamond shape. At the same time, the transitional cutting also greatly improves the refractive index and dazzling degree of the diamond, and better controls the weight distribution of the diamond, so that it reaches a more balanced proportion. Therefore, transitional cut diamonds of the same carat weight are usually more valuable than other cuts.

The transition cut diamond retains the basic characteristics of the round bright cut, but uses a deeper and steeper pavilion angle to increase the fire color and brightness of the diamond. In terms of color, the color grade of transitional cut diamond is usually between the D-G grade, which belongs to the high-quality category of colorless to nearly colorless. Because of the early appearance of this cut, the color grade tends to be higher than that of modern diamonds. The clarity grade of such diamonds is usually between VS1-SI2, which is in the range of small inclusions to small inclusions. The clarity grade is relatively medium, but it is sufficient to show the excellent quality of the diamond. Transitional cut diamonds generally weighed between 0.5 and 3 carats, which was a very large size at the time. But with the passage of time and the advancement of technology, the average carat of diamonds today has increased.

In addition to objective indicators of value, transitional cut diamonds are also highly sought after due to their unique historical origins and artistic appeal. Transition-cut diamonds have become increasingly rare, as many diamonds are re-cut and ground into fully modern round bright cuts. For those collectors who love rare collections and yearn for exceptional quality, owning a transitional cut diamond is undoubtedly a symbol of status and status.

Tips for buying transition cut diamonds

For consumers who intend to buy transition-cut diamonds, the first task is to find high-quality supplies on the market, you can fully evaluate the indicators of diamonds from professional diamond identification experts or online diamond suppliers to ensure that the purchase of high-quality transition-cut diamonds. Because this type of cutting is relatively rare, it needs to be selected and identified with extra care.