AltGems
Updated as of June 2026

Round cut

The round cut is the most popular and most brilliant cut, engineered to maximize sparkle. Here is how it behaves and which stones show it off best.

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Best gemstones for a round cut

7.0

Paraiba Tourmaline

Blue · Mohs 7.25
8.4

Diamond

Colorless · Mohs 10
8.0

Alexandrite

Green · Mohs 8.5
7.0

Red Beryl

Red · Mohs 7.75
8.0

Padparadscha Sapphire

Orange · Mohs 9
7.4

Taaffeite

Purple · Mohs 8
7.8

Ruby

Red · Mohs 9
6.8

Emerald

Green · Mohs 7.5
6.6

Benitoite

Blue · Mohs 6.5
7.2

Lab-Grown Diamond

Colorless · Mohs 10
7.2

Demantoid Garnet

Green · Mohs 6.75
7.8

Black Diamond

Black · Mohs 10

Each link opens the round guide for that stone, with price by carat and the best settings.

Frequently asked questions

What is a round cut?
A round cut is the most popular and most brilliant cut, engineered to maximize sparkle. It works across engagement rings, pendants, and earrings.
Is the round cut a good choice?
Yes for the right look. The most popular and most brilliant cut, engineered to maximize sparkle. Match it to the stone and setting you love, and check that the cut is well proportioned and symmetrical.
Which gemstones suit a round cut?
Most faceted stones are cut this way. Popular round choices include Paraiba Tourmaline, Diamond, Alexandrite, Red Beryl.