Diamonds 101: Emerald Cut Diamonds
Known for its elegant rectangular shape and unique sparkle, the emerald cut diamond offers something special. Discover its features, pros and cons, and how it compares to other diamond cuts in this guide.
Highlights
- Emerald cut diamonds are recognized for their distinctive elongated rectangular shape, step-cut facets creating a ‘Hall of Mirrors’ effect, and sophisticated appearance.
- Their fewer facets and step-cut design highlight clarity and color, offering a refined look compared to more brilliant cuts.
- We recommend buying a higher clarity grade of emerald cut diamond since its large face gives a clear view into the stone, making any inclusions or color variations more noticeable
- The elongated shape of emerald cut diamonds often makes them look bigger than other cuts of the same carat weight.
What is an Emerald Cut Diamond
An emerald cut diamond features linear and straight step-cut facets. The symmetry and pronounced lines of the facets accentuate the overall sleek and refined appearance of the diamond. The substantial table of the diamond (the main face of the diamond when viewed face-up), coupled with these facets, gives a clear view into the stone. This makes any inclusions or color variations more noticeable, making it more important to select higher clarity and color grades than some of the other cuts.
Emerald cut diamonds are known for:
- Broad flashes of light - as opposed to the typical sparkle seen in other diamond cuts
- Their distinctive, elongated rectangular shape
- Step-cut facets, or the unique “Hall of Mirrors” effect
- An elegant appearance associated with sophistication and high-class
- Cut-off corners, which can make the wearer’s fingers appear longer and more slender
The History of the Emerald Cut Diamonds
The history of the emerald cut diamond traces its origins back to the table cut of the 1500s. The table cut got its name from having a large, flat top like a table and each of the four sides had similarly simple, flat cuts. The emerald cut was developed for cutting emeralds to prevent chipping, by utilizing rounded corners they were able to prevent a lot of damage. This cut has a similar-looking flat table as the table cut but then uses a series of step-cut facets to give the diamond more dramatic flashes of light.
In the 1920s and 1930s, during the Art Deco period, the emerald cut gained popularity thanks to its elegant and sophisticated appearance. The straight edges and step-cut facets of the emerald cut complemented the geometric and symmetrical designs prevalent during the Art Deco period.
Key Features of Emerald Cut Diamonds
Emerald cut diamonds are characterized by several key features that set them apart from other diamond cuts. One of the most notable features is their parallel step-cut facets, which create a “Hall of Mirrors” effect and produce large flashes of light rather than a typical sparkle associated with cuts like the princess or round cuts. This effect is achieved through the symmetrical faceting pattern that resembles a staircase, adding to the diamond’s sophisticated appeal. Some other features of emerald cut diamonds include:
- Rectangular shape with cut corners
- Large table (top flat surface)
- Deep pavilion (bottom part of the diamond)
- Fewer facets compared to other cuts
These unique characteristics set emerald cut diamonds apart from other square cuts like the radiant cut diamonds.
The expansive table of an emerald cut diamond provides a transparent view into the stone, making any inclusions and colors more noticeable. We recommend opting for a higher clarity grade to prevent visible inclusions from detracting from the diamond’s beauty. Additionally, the elongated shape of emerald cut diamonds often makes them appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight, providing a visually bigger look.
Emerald cut diamonds typically have 57 to 58 facets, fewer than those found in more brilliant cuts like the round brilliant or princess cut. This lower facet count contributes to the diamond’s unique light reflection, emphasizing clarity and color rather than intense sparkle. The combination of these features results in a diamond that exudes elegance and refinement, making it a popular choice for those seeking a timeless and sophisticated look.
Comparing Emerald Cut with Other Diamond Cuts
It’s essential to understand how emerald cut diamonds compare to other popular diamond cuts such as radiant, cushion, and round brilliant. Each cut offers unique features, brilliance, and price points, making it critical to evaluate which cut best fits your preferences and budget.
Emerald Cut vs. Radiant Cut
Emerald cut diamonds present a toned-down, glass-like appearance with less sparkle, unlike radiant cut diamonds, which are renowned for their vibrant luminosity and brilliance. Radiant cut diamonds reflect a large amount of light, creating a bright, beautiful sparkle that many find captivating.
The radiant cut diamond, a popular rectangular shape, features a rectangular shape with cut-off corners similar to the emerald cut but has triangular and kite-shaped facets that enhance its brilliance. In contrast, the emerald cut’s step-cut facets create a “Hall of Mirrors” effect, resulting in an understated glimmer that emphasizes the diamond’s clarity and color over its ability to capture light.
Emerald Cut vs. Cushion Cut
Cushion cut diamonds are known for their rounded, curved corners, giving them a pillow-like silhouette that is admired for its ability to produce “fire,” resulting in breathtaking sparkle. The cushion cut’s ability to reflect colored light, commonly called “fire,” makes it a popular choice for those seeking a dazzling and vibrant stone.
In contrast, emerald cut diamonds emphasize the natural beauty of the diamond due to their large, open facets. This means that while cushion cuts are celebrated for their sparkle and fire, emerald cuts are prized for their ability to showcase the diamond’s lack of imperfections and internal clarity.
Emerald Cut vs. Round Brilliant Cut
Round brilliant cut diamonds are chosen for their traditional appearance and exceptional brilliance, thanks to their multiple facets that maximize light reflection. This cut is known for its ability to catch the eye with its sparkle, making it a popular choice for many people.
In contrast, emerald cut diamonds offer a mature look, with larger, step-cut facets emphasizing clarity and a sleek, elegant appearance. The “Hall of Mirrors” effect created by the emerald cut’s facets provides a unique visual appeal that is captivating without being flashy and glamorous.
The Appeal of Emerald Cut Diamonds
Emerald cut diamonds have a distinct appeal that differentiates them from other diamond cuts. Here are some reasons why they are a popular choice:
- Their unique step-cut facets and elongated rectangular shape create a subtle sparkle that lends itself to an air of sophistication.
- The emerald cut best shows off the diamond’s clarity and color, as its large table allows for uninterrupted sight into the diamond.
- Emerald cut diamonds offer a glamorous and classic look.
Whether set in a solitaire, halo, or three-stone ring, emerald cut diamonds offer versatility in engagement ring settings.
Emerald cut diamonds can be tailored to suit various styles and preferences. This versatility makes them an excellent choice for creating a unique and personalized engagement ring.
Subtle Sparkle and Elegance
The step cuts inherent to emerald diamonds generate a refined sparkle that is simultaneously eye-catching and subtle. The “Hall of Mirrors” effect created by emerald-cut diamonds resembles a symmetrical staircase. This effect contributes to the diamond’s sophisticated appeal, making it a popular choice for those seeking a more elegant look for their engagement ring.
Showcasing Clarity and Color
The expansive, open facets of emerald cut diamonds accentuate clarity and color, making imperfections hard to hide. We recommend choosing high clarity grades for this particular cut. Color is also an important consideration, as the open facets make any color present visible. A G color grade or better is recommended to ensure the diamond appears white and bright, enhancing its overall visual appeal.
Versatility in Engagement Ring Settings
Emerald cut diamonds lend themselves to many setting styles, offering flexibility in engagement ring designs. Whether you prefer:
- A solitaire setting that focuses purely on the diamond’s elegance
- A halo setting that adds a border of additional diamonds for more fire and sparkle
- A pavé setting with pave diamonds that adds intrigue while focusing on the center stone
The versatility of emerald-cut diamonds extends beyond these examples, so if you have questions or would like to see a mock-up of your dream ring, make an appointment with us to create the perfect ring for you.
Choosing the Perfect Emerald Cut Diamond
The length-to-width ratio, clarity grade, and carat weight all play a part in selecting the perfect emerald cut diamond.
Ideal Length-to-Width Ratio
The length-to-width ratio of an emerald cut diamond helps attain a balanced and visually appealing appearance. Typically, the ideal ratio for these diamonds ranges from 1.30 to 1.50, with 1.40 being considered the most popular choice. A ratio closer to 1.30 will give the diamond a square appearance, while a ratio closer to 1.60 results in an elongated, rectangular shape.
Personal preference plays a significant role in selecting the right length-to-width ratio. Some may prefer the wider, more square look, while others might favor the longer elegance of a higher ratio.
Importance of Clarity Grade
Clarity is particularly important for emerald cut diamonds, as their extensive table makes even slight imperfections visible. To ensure that the diamond appears without flaws to the naked eye, a clarity grade of VS1 or higher is recommended. This high clarity grade avoids visible inclusions that could detract from the diamond’s beauty and brilliance.
Considering Carat Weight
When selecting the carat weight for an emerald cut diamond, it’s important to balance size and quality within your budget. Larger emerald cut diamonds have the potential to show more visible inclusions if not carefully selected for quality.
On a positive note, their elongated shape often makes them appear larger than other cuts of the same carat weight.
Caring for Your Emerald Cut Diamond
Proper care and maintenance help keep your emerald-cut diamond sparkling. We already wrote a comprehensive guide on cleaning diamond engagement rings, but here's a quick overview.
Regular Cleaning
To keep your emerald cut diamond sparkling, follow these steps:
- Soak it in lukewarm water mixed with mild dish soap for about 30 minutes to loosen any dirt.
- After soaking, use a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush to gently brush away any remaining dirt.
- Rinse the diamond thoroughly with warm water to remove all soap.
- Use a soft, lint-free cloth to gently wipe it dry.
Consult a jeweler before using ultrasonic cleaners or steam cleaners, as the vibrations and heat can damage any loose settings. Stick to gentle cleaning methods to help maintain the diamond’s integrity and brilliance.
Professional Maintenance
Periodic professional check-ups are essential to ensure the setting of your emerald cut diamond remains secure. We recommend having the prongs in the setting checked twice a year by a jeweler to ensure they remain secure and to prevent any potential damage from regular wear and tear.
Safe Storage Practices
Storing your emerald cut diamond properly helps prevent damage and scratches. Use a velvet-lined box or a soft pouch to protect the diamond from other jewelry pieces. The original box is often the best option, as it is specifically designed to safeguard the diamond.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes emerald cut diamonds unique?
Emerald cut diamonds are unique due to their elongated rectangular shape, step-cut facets, and the "Hall of Mirrors" effect that creates broad flashes of light, rather than a typical sparkle. This makes them stand out from other diamond cuts.
How does the clarity grade affect an emerald cut diamond?
A higher clarity grade is crucial for emerald cut diamonds due to their large table, as it makes inclusions more visible. It is recommended to choose a clarity grade of VS1 or higher to ensure the diamond appears eye-clean.
What is the ideal length-to-width ratio for an emerald cut diamond?
For an emerald cut diamond, the ideal length-to-width ratio is typically between 1.30 to 1.50, with 1.40 being the most balanced and popular choice.
How should I clean my emerald cut diamond?
To clean your emerald cut diamond, soak it in lukewarm water mixed with mild dish soap for 30 minutes, then gently brush away any dirt with a clean, soft-bristled toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth.
What are the best settings for emerald cut diamonds?
For emerald cut diamonds, the best settings include solitaire, halo, pavé, and three-stone rings, each offering their own benefits to enhance the diamond's appearance and showcase its elegance.