How To Decide Between Emerald Cut and Asscher Cut Diamonds

Both emerald and asscher cut diamonds are considered to be step cut diamonds meaning that the facets run parallel to the diamond’s sides. With this in mind, step cuts can only occur on square or rectangular diamonds. Although both diamond cuts are step cuts, the shape is where they differ the most. asscher cuts are squarer while the emerald cuts are more rectangular. However, most people categorize an asscher cut to be a subcategory of emerald cut.

Emerald cut diamonds

History-wise, the emerald cut has a much older history than the asscher cut which was developed in 1902 and popular during the Art-Deco period. The emerald cut, on the other hand, dates back to the 1400s.

Only 3% of the world’s diamonds are emerald cut, making them one of the most unique diamond cuts offered. One of the biggest perks of emerald cut diamonds is the size. Although a 5-carat emerald cut diamond is technically the same size as, say, a 5-carat round cut diamond, the emerald cut diamond will appear larger due to its larger surface area. This idea is especially appealing to buyers on a budget; they can purchase a seemingly larger diamond for a much lower price. Additionally, emerald cut diamonds are elongated which gives the wearer’s fingers the appearance of being much longer and slenderer.

One of the drawbacks of an emerald cut diamond is the fact that it shows imperfections much more than other cuts of diamonds, therefore, buyers should be wary of this before purchasing. Additionally, buyers should also be aware of color. Emerald cuts, due to their large surface area, show yellowish tints in their make-up much more than other diamond cuts. Emerald cuts, like asscher cuts, have a subtler shine than most other cuts of diamonds due to their being a step cut. The diamond is more similar to mirrors than it is to a brilliant and sparkly diamond.

Asscher cut diamonds

The asscher cut diamond is a variant of the beloved emerald cut diamond. With this in mind, this cut of diamond has truncated corners to finish off its square shape. However, most would define an asscher cut diamond as octagonal due to its extra sides added through the truncated corners. This octagonal shape disappears when the diamond is inserted to be a part of an asscher diamond ring because a four-prong setting will mask the tucked corners.

An asscher cut diamond is extremely flat which gives an uninterrupted view into the center of the stone. This flatness can make inclusions incredibly noticeable. Additionally, similar to the emerald cut, asscher cut diamonds show color more readily due to their large surface area and opportunity for color saturation. Therefore, buyers should be mindful to watch out for inclusions and yellowish tints within the diamond.

Some of the most popular asscher cut diamond engagement rings and emerald cut diamond engagement rings include:

Sleek Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring

The Sleek Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring combines a classic cathedral setting with a simple solitaire diamond that will perfectly complement any square or rectangular stone. As an emerald cut diamond ring or an asscher cut diamond ring, this ring is given every opportunity to dazzle.

Grace Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring

Similarly, the Grace Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring also uses the simplicity of the solitaire setting to mimic the shine from the plain metal band. Accented metalwork and the classic cathedral windows add a little more detail to a relatively delicate design.

Knife Edge Milgrain Diamond Engagement Ring

The Knife Edge Milgrain Diamond Engagement Ring features accent diamonds along both sides of a knife edge band for extra sparkle that doesn't detract from your center stone. Milgrain metal work along the edge gives a touch on antique elegance without making the setting seem old fashioned.

Two Tone Bypass Diamond Engagement Ring

For a more contemporary look, the Two-Tone Bypass Diamond Engagement Ring gives the buyer the ability to customize his or her ring to contain two different metal tones. With a unique twist, the split band blends the classic and modern. With the addition of 28 accent diamonds, this engagement ring is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Three Stone Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring

With a cluster of diamonds occupying the center space of the ring, the Three Stone Baguette Diamond Engagement Ring shows off two baguette diamonds that flank the center stone and echo the gorgeous flashes that come off your main step-cut diamond.

Rising Accents Diamond Engagement Ring

The Rising Accents Diamond Engagement Ring features a contemporary and structural look. With raised accent diamonds, the center stone looks even brighter.

Underhalo Classic Diamond Engagement Ring

The Underhalo Classic Diamond Engagement Ring offers a sparkling ring of accent diamonds under the center diamond in order to give off a contemporary style that is elegant and beautiful.

Four Points Diamond Engagement Ring

For a ring with much more complexity, the Four Points Diamond Engagement Ring features a milgrain pattern that draws together at four different points on the band. This busy band gives the ring a more traditional look that fits perfectly in combination with any asscher or emerald cut diamonds.