Abstract: A cutting element includes a metallic carbide body, a first layer of polycrystalline diamond material, and at least one transition layer between the metallic carbide body and the first layer. The polycrystalline diamond material includes a plurality of interconnected diamond grains, first metal carbide particles, and a first binder material in interstitial regions between the interconnected first diamond grains, wherein the first metal carbide particles form a matrix in which the second diamond grains are dispersed and wherein the first metal carbide particles are present in the outer transition layer in an amount ranging from about 15 to 35 volume percent. The at least one transition layer includes a composite of diamond grains, second metal carbide particles, and a second binder material.