The emerald cut, originating from a rectangular, step cut design, was initially crafted to accentuate the beauty of green emerald gemstones, particularly those with exceptionally high clarity grades. Today, this cut style is widely embraced for showcasing the brilliance of colorless diamonds. Characterized by its large, open facets, an emerald cut diamond offers viewers a mesmerizing glimpse into the stone, creating a captivating ‘hall of mirrors’ optical effect reminiscent of a prismatic display. In terms of affordability, the emerald cut diamond shape offers excellent value. Its elongated silhouette is not only flattering for the wearer but also makes it one of the most budget-friendly diamond shapes when comparing carat for carat.
Why choose an emerald cut diamond ?
While engagement ring wearers typically gravitate towards brilliance cut diamonds, the emerald diamond stands out as a style of step cut. This means it showcases large, open, parallel facets intended to highlight the stone’s exquisite clarity rather than its sparkle. Therefore, emerald cut rings cater to individuals who value minimalism, refined design, and aren’t overly drawn to intense sparkle.
Characterized by its demure shape, emerald cut diamonds offer a more subdued glisten with occasional flashes of light rather than intense sparkle, with the ‘hall of mirrors’ prismatic effect being their main allure. The repetition of parallel, rectangular shapes within the emerald cut evokes the elegance of Art Deco design while maintaining a contemporary feel.
What clarity grade should I choose for my emerald diamond ?
The expansive open facet structure of emerald cuts leaves minimal space for inclusions to conceal within this diamond shape. With the ability to peer directly into the stone, any visible flaws will be reflected throughout its facets. Hence, prioritizing a higher clarity grade compared to what you might choose for a brilliant cut diamond is essential. It’s advisable to consider clarity grades ranging from SI1 to, ideally, VS2 and above. However, it’s important to note that diamonds completely (or nearly completely) devoid of flaws come with a price tag reflecting their rarity.
How do I choose the cut of an emerald diamond ?
As a fancy shaped diamond, emerald cuts do not receive a cut grade, but it’s crucial to consider their polish and symmetry grades. Opt for Excellent or Very Good polish and symmetry grades to ensure smooth facets, sharp lines, and an even finish.
The ratio of your emerald cut diamond is entirely dependent on your personal preference. You might favor a square or near-square shape, or perhaps something long, elongated, and slender. Typically, emerald cut diamonds are cut with proportions ranging from 1.30 to 1.50, with 1.40 being widely regarded as the most ideal proportion for an emerald diamond.
How do I choose an emerald diamond colour ?
The expansive, open facets of an emerald cut diamond leave minimal space for flaws to conceal, and its subtle sparkle fails to mask a poor color grade. Hence, prioritize D to F color grades for your emerald cut diamond ring, especially if you’re selecting a platinum setting.
For yellow or rose gold rings, you have more flexibility with color. In such cases, you can consider a slightly warmer-toned diamond, with an H color grade being acceptable at the lowest.
How many facets does an emerald cut diamond have ?
Emerald cut diamonds consist of 57 individual facets, with the largest being the table facet. The table facet mirrors the overall shape of the diamond—rectangular, with cropped corners. Most of the facets on an emerald diamond are rectangular, with triangular corner facets tapering toward the center of the stone. As a step cut diamond, the emerald cut maximizes the diamond’s clarity. Rather than producing intense sparkle, this prismatic stone offers a subtle glisten and occasional flashes of light.