Emerald Cut
Today, women all over the world admire the sleek and clean look of emerald-cut diamonds. These sophisticated diamonds typically have 57 facets. While this cut is not as brilliant as others, the flat surface of the diamond’s top highlights the clarity that makes this cut sparkle and shine. You might also like princess diamonds and the emerald cut.
When looking at this diamond from above, the sides look similar to steps, which is why the process of cutting this shape is called step cutting. Although this diamond cut is thought to be modern, it actually traces back hundreds of years.
The Emerald cut diamond is one of the oldest diamond shapes, with stylistic origins tracing back to the table cut of the 1500s. Stonecutters initially created this shape for emerald stones. The Emerald cut became popular as it reduced the pressure during the cutting process and therefore prevented chips in the gems.
Diamond cutters took notice of this new shape and soon after began to incorporate it into diamonds as well.
The actual term “emerald cut” was not used until the 1920s when the cut saw an increase in popularity. The rise of Art Deco, where clean lines and symmetry were admired, inspired the emerald cut trend. Since then, emerald cuts have remained one of the most popular choices for engagement rings and other jewellery pieces.
Are Emerald cut diamonds a good choice?
Because the emerald cut is so versatile, a number of settings work well with this shape. Many ladies love to put a modern twist on the emerald-cut diamond by adding a halo around the centre stone. This cut can also be paired with two side stones to really add some extra sparkle.
Another approach that has become more popular is to use smaller emerald-cut diamonds as side stones paired with another cut as the centre. This combination works remarkably well with the brilliant cut family diamonds such as Princess cut, Round Brilliant cut, Barion cut, Radiant cut and Asscher cut.
When hunting for the perfect emerald-cut diamond, remember that this shape does not conceal imperfections well due to the long step cuts, so quality is important. Go with a clarity grade of Si2 and above to ensure no visible imperfections of your emerald cut diamond. The higher the purity on an Emerald cut, the better.
Emerald cuts look spectacular in any colour and even warmer colours look great in an emerald cut as the step cut enhances the depth of the colour.
Emerald cut diamonds also produce a hall-of-mirrors effect exhibiting a fusion of the light and dark planes. The longer lines and unique play of light exude a graceful charm and Art Deco flair.
Only 3% of the world’s diamonds are emerald cut, which means they are rare and harder to find. Due to their elongated shape and large table, you can get a diamond that looks a little larger than other shapes for a lower price per carat.
Emerald cut diamonds come in an almost square shape to a narrow rectangle shape. This unique cut looks best in a simplistic and classic designed ring where the straight lines of the diamond are accentuated.
The Pros and Cons of the Emerald cut diamond
Pros:
Smooth Surfaces: Other diamond cuts have many angles and cuts while the emerald cut has a large table and few angled cuts that step away from the table itself. These step cuts create a smooth and beautiful look.
When it comes to the design style itself, this kind of cut is made for women who want something a bit more understated and elegant. The emerald cut is less ostentatious than other kinds of cuts with their flash and brilliance. It’s only when you get in close that you can see how classy the cut is.
This cut has been around for hundreds of years, yet it remains one of the most trendy cuts.
Vivid Flashes: While the emerald cut doesn’t have the flashy fire of a round brilliant, when it’s angled right, the vivid flashes are breathtaking.
Great with Surrounding Stones: With the flat sides of the diamond, an emerald cut looks fantastic in a set with other stones on the sides. For example, tapered baguettes are incredibly stunning with this style of diamond.
Less Expensive: The emerald cut isn’t as highly sought after as other cuts, so you’ll be able to buy a larger carat with better quality in an emerald shape. This means you’ll get more diamond for your budget. That’s a huge plus when it comes to diamonds.
Appears Larger: The large steps cuts of the emerald diamond give the table a larger appearance. This gives the illusion of having more diamond. One carat of emerald cut diamond will appear larger than one carat of a round brilliant or pear shaped cut.
Flattering on Slim Fingers: Some styles of diamond cuts look better on some finger sizes and shapes. The emerald cut is flattering on long, slender fingers.
Tapered Edges: The edges of an emerald cut are tapered, so you don’t have to worry about catching the corners on the edge of counters.
Cons:
Understated: For a woman who wants to have a flashy and over-the-top diamond, this isn’t a good choice. You’ll have to know yourself, or your lady, to know whether the emerald is a good choice for you.
