Named after the emerald gemstone, the emerald, along with the Asscher cut and the baguette cut, is a type of step cut. It has a rectangular shape with straight linear facets, and unlike the brilliant cut, features small rectangular facets that look like steps.
Many people prefer the emerald cut because it creates a larger surface area, resulting in a larger-looking gemstone. It also makes the finger look slimmer. Beautiful emerald-cut diamonds are known less for their brilliance and glitter and more for their shine and ‘hall of mirrors’ effect.
‘Hall of Mirrors’
‘Dead Spots’ where inclusions are present.
If you are considering purchasing an emerald-cut diamond, it is worth noting that because of the emerald cut’s larger surface area, inclusions and color are easier to spot with the naked eye, making it harder and more expensive to source a highly graded diamond.
However, because emerald cuts are one of the more efficient cuts in diamond cutting, some of the cost can be offset in your favor. When it comes to grading, Look for nothing less than a VS1 or VVS1 clarity grade, and aim for G+ color unless you are placing your stone in a warm gold setting that can improve the look of a lower color rating.
