Most rose cuts found in antique jewelry from the 1700s and 1800s have some inclusions (foreign particles trapped in the crystal) in them, as well as a slight body color to them. The inclusions add a unique personality to each diamond. In those days, diamonds were evaluated by candlelight, and diamonds with a yellow or grayish color glowed warmly.
Organized diamond grading didn't emerge until the 1940s. Lower grade diamonds are the perfect choice for the less brilliant rose cut. This is due to the fact that diamonds with a better clarity and color will fetch higher prices when cut to maximize fire and brilliancy. Antique rose cuts normally fall into the SI (slightly included) clarity grade and I or lower in color grade. Modern rose cuts typically fall into the SI and I (included) clarity grades and G or lower in color grade.