Emerald Cut Engagement Ring

When one thinks of the term ‘emerald cut’ it is tempting to think of the gemstone emerald. This is understandable, for it is the only diamond and by extension, gemstone cut that is named after a real precious stone. However the emerald cut is a real gemstone cut, that falls under the category of top diamond cuts and it derives its name from the traditional emerald shape: one that is typically associated with emeralds, one that has found its way into the public perception of the particular gemstone. Today emerald cuts are distinct gemstone cut, that is most popular in the world of diamonds, but it is also adopted by other gemstones as well. Here we will outline the main points that a person needs to know when it comes to selecting this particular gemstone cut when it comes to buying it as a stone or as part of an engagement ring.

The Development of Emerald Cut

The origins of emerald cut go back hundreds of years, and it began its life in the world of gemstone cutters who reserved this particular cut for emerald stones. The emerald cut became popular over time, as the requirements of the cut proved to be relatively simpler, and thus minimized the chance of the gems chipping. Since these early days and the sophisticated technologies that are used in gem cutting today were not available at that time, diamond cutters start to warm to this particular cut. In time the particular design of the cut began to garner attention, and soon this particular cut, which was popular with emeralds, began to adopt in the making of diamonds. As the most popular gemstones in the world, people who wished to have emerald cut featured in their choice of diamonds. It is interesting to note that the term “emerald cut” did not enter into popular use age until the early decades of the 20^th century. But with the symmetry of its intricate lines and that run along the surface of this cut, it began to gain recognition during a time when such styles started to become vogue. Following its entry, emerald cuts have risen in popularity and today make up the list of top diamond cuts in the market. The popularity of emerald cuts is an indication of the popularity of emeralds, which were more popular during those times when the high hardness of diamonds made it difficult for gemstone cutters of that era.

Main Features of Emerald Cut Gemstones

The emerald cut draws its name from the stone most cut in a distinct rectangular shape, that feature step facets that amount to a total of 57 facets: 24 on the Pavilion (lower part of the stone), 25 on the Crown (the most visible), and 8 on the Girdle (the tiny area that connects the other main sections). Emerald cuts can also be identified based on the number of rows. As an evolution of the older step cut variant, emerald cut stones also feature the step cut character, but with noticeable facets that lead up to the pavilion, which help increase the fire (the dispersion of light into the colours of the rainbow) of the diamond.

Surface Visibility

One of the most visible features is the extensive table, which is among the most prominent in the list of diamond cuts. Which is great for reflecting light and as the larger surface help the light that hits the stone to shape brightly. On the downside, the wide visible area makes inclusions (slight blemishes and other inconsistencies of the stone) more noticeable. This means lower grade diamonds (i.e. those which score lower in clarity in the 4Cs) are likely to stand out negatively. Hence when going for emerald cut stone, it is important that the clarity, and to a lesser extent its colour (D – Z in diamonds) be prioritized.

Elongated Shape

The emerald cut stone displays a rectangular shape, an elongated one, which is a stand out in the world of diamond cuts. Since the most popular diamond cuts tend to be limited to a more traditional diamond style, emerald cuts, along with the baguette cuts to a lesser extent, are stand out cuts in the world of gemstones. And may help the wearer stand out in terms of gemstone cut, and may also help the wearer’s fingers seem longer and slim. This could be advisable depending on the wearer’s preferences of fingers, as fine engagement rings need to complement the physical shape of the wearer's hand.

Strengths of the Emerald Cut

With emerald cuts the beauty lies in what you see is what you get. You see it is tough to get wrong with the emerald cut: as a standout cut that is visibly different to others, even to the naked eye, with its elongated, rectangular shape with carefully shaped step cuts, that steps down, makes it a unique choice. And unlike princess cut with its shaper edges, which can chip or snap with other materials; in emerald cuts, the diamonds are usually smoothed or cut in a rounder shape at the edge. As noted emerald cut is great for highlighting the stone’s clarity with its large surface table. In addition to these, there are two other factors that drive the popularity of emerald cuts.

Versatility

The appeal of emerald cuts lies with the versatility of the shape, as stones that are cut in this way, diamonds, emeralds, or otherwise, can be used in a number of ring settings. The length and width of the cut stone allow for a number of changes to be made to the stone. In engagement ring selections, emerald-cut diamonds or emerald cut sapphires can be enhanced with smaller emerald cut stones that accompany the main stone on its sides. Emerald cut stones also make up a great solitaire choice, as the larger surface area will provide that presence, which those who seek a bigger centre stone.

Affordability

Emerald cuts are known for their larger sizes in contrast to more popular round and even princess cut stones. Emerald cuts tend to be larger in carat size owing to the manner of the cuts: as step-cut stone, whilst being lower in brilliance and fire than brilliant cut varieties like princess cut stones. However cuts like the princess contains a higher number of facets, which in terms of total stone that is preserved during the cutting process, the emerald cut surpasses the more popular princess and even round cut diamonds in terms of what is preserved from the original rough stone. So one can buy a larger stone for a lower price, whilst controlling for colour and clarity.

Buying an Emerald Cut Engagement Ring

When it comes to buying an emerald cut engagement ring the choices are expansive. Interestingly one need not limit oneself to diamonds. Whilst diamonds are the top gemstone of choice when it comes to buying an emerald cut stone, one may opt for other types of gemstones, from sapphires, rubies, and even, you guessed it, emerald. Emerald cut emeralds are a natural choice for those who are seeking a top gemstone for their choice of engagement ring. Or one can get creative and choose an engagement ring with varying styles, such as three stone engagement rings, which feature an emerald cut stone at the centre with two side stones of your desired cut and colour.