EMERALD CUT DIAMOND

Emerald cut diamonds have 50 to 58 facets. The number of facets depend on the number of rows on the crown and the pavilion, and a length to width ratio of 1.5-1.7 to 1 is ideal. The emerald cut diamond is rectangular in shape that has trimmed corners and step-cut facets typically parallel to the girdle – ‘step cut’ refers to the step-like look of the facet cuts.

Due to the step-cut of the emerald diamond, it appears to have less brilliance than a round or princess cut diamond, but in actual fact, it is just a different, more subtle sparkle.

The step-cut creates flashes of light that have a ‘hall of mirrors effect.’ This illusion creates flashes of bright white light in stark contrast to the dark planes within each step. The emerald cut appears less fiery, but its long lines and dramatic flashes of light give it an elegant and sophisticated appeal.

The cut itself was developed specifically for emerald gems, but was later used for other gems, including diamonds. The cut became popular, at first, because it required reduced pressure during the cutting process. Diamond cutters soon took note of its allure, and began incorporating it in diamonds as well.

The emerald cut is known as the most unforgiving cut, and requires a diamond of higher quality of colour and clarity.

This is because inclusions and other impurities are more easily noticed with this bold type of cut. The better the stone’s clarity, the more attractive this cut will be.

The exact origin of the emerald cut is unknown, but its stylistic specifications can be traced back to 500 years ago in the Art Deco period during the early 20th century. The term ‘emerald cut’ was not used until the 1920s when the cut rapidly gained popularity because of its clean lines and symmetry.

The elongated shape of the emerald cut gives the appearance of longer and more slender fingers, but the shape also makes the stone look bigger than it is. It is thought to have a 5% greater surface area than that of a round brilliant diamond of the same weight.

The emerald cut shape of diamond is linked to organised, resourceful, disciplined and decisive personalities. It has a vintage appeal that is both beautiful and distinct and speaks to women who appreciate the beauty of antique-style jewellery. Because of the versatility of this cut, a number of shapes and settings work well with it. The emerald cut has been favoured by the likes of Grace Kelly, Elizabeth Taylor and Angelina Jolie.