How to Buy an Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

The emerald cut has gone in and out of fashion across different periods yet remains a symbol of understated luxury. Nowadays, it is regarded as one of the most elegant diamond cuts you can choose for an engagement ring.

We have seen emerald-cut diamonds on the hands of celebs like Beyoncé and Jennifer Lopez. What is it about this cut that makes it so attractive? And what should you look for in emerald cut? At Ritani.com, we have the answers. This post will give you all the tools you need to find out if the emerald cut is the ideal diamond shape for your engagement ring.

IN THIS GUIDE, YOU’LL LEARN:

•   What is an Emerald Cut Diamond?

•   Two of the 4Cs that Matter the Most in Emerald Cuts

•   Are Emerald Cut Diamonds More Expensive?

The emerald cut falls into the “Step Cut” category. When it comes to engagement rings, brilliant-cut diamonds are more popular because of their higher fire (colored light flashes) and scintillation (white light flashes). Step cuts like the emerald and the Asscher commonly have fewer facets, and they are also larger, so they don’t reflect light in the same way as brilliants do. If the spark factor is not a top priority for you, an emerald-cut might be the right choice. The parallel facets in an emerald cut shine in a unique “hall of mirrors” effect, which looks very attractive and luxurious.

Origin of the Emerald Cut Diamond

As you probably guessed, the shape was first developed to cut emeralds. With a hardness ranging from 7.5 to 8 on the Mohs’ scale, emeralds are hard enough to be used in jewelry but can be brittle and prone to chipping and breakage due to their natural inclusions. A step cut was invented to avoid damaging the gems and put less pressure when cutting. First, in the 1500s, there was the “Table Cut,” which later evolved to the “Old Single Cut,” the cut was continuously refined, and then more facets were added until it became standardized in the 1920s when it received the “Emerald Cut” name.

During the 1930s, the emerald cut took center stage; it was admired by its symmetry and clear geometric pattern, an embodiment of Art Deco’s aesthetic values. However, its popularity declined after the war and the round cut took its place.

Anatomy of an Emerald Cut Diamond

The modern emerald cut has a rectangular shape with cut-off corners and at least 57 facets. The emerald cut displays less dispersion of light than the brilliant cuts because of how its facets are arranged, their size, shape, and angles. Nevertheless, its sleek and clean design is what makes it the most elegant cut for engagement rings.

Because of its elongated shape, it tends to look bigger than its actual carat weight, and it can smoothly be surrounded by a halo and still carry that discrete elegance feel.

What to Look For in an Emerald Cut Diamond

Find Your Ratio

The most desirable ratios for emerald cut diamonds are between 1.40 to 1.50 for a classic rectangular proportion. The most affordable ratios would be below or above that range. For example, gems in the 1.30-1.39 ratio or 1.51-1.60 ratio will be slightly cheaper than a 1.40-1.50 emerald cut diamond with the same characteristics.

Filter by Ratio and Find Your Ideal Emerald Cut Diamond with Ritani’s Diamond Finder

Clarity is Crucial

Emerald cuts have a very large top facet, also known as the table, which allows for a very clear internal view of the diamond. This attribute means emerald cuts won’t be able to conceal or disguise internal flaws and other cuts. To avoid noticeable inclusions, we recommend staying above at least a VS2 clarity grade. If you want an eye-clean emerald cut diamond, stick to VS1 or higher.

Color Matters for Emerald Cut Diamonds

For the same reason as above, the color becomes very evident in emerald cuts. For a near-colorless look, you should stick to G grades and higher. Going below a G grade will be less expensive, though. A good tip is to choose a rose or yellow gold band as they compliment lower grades like H or I very well, helping to mask the color a little bit.

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Emerald-Cut Diamond Engagement Rings from Ritani

Rose Gold Emerald Cut Solitaire Engagement Ring

A stunning solitaire shown here in 18kt rose gold with a beautiful emerald cut diamond in a four-prong setting is what dreams are made of. With a hidden halo underneath the classic emerald cut diamond, you still get your dose of shimmer and sparkles.

Platinum Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

The definition of modern elegance; with a gorgeous emerald cut diamond flanked by rows of french-set round brilliants, set in Platinum for maximum strength. A total showstopper.

Yellow Gold Emerald Cut Split Shank Engagement Ring

This exquisite engagement ring brings together a vintage feel and a modern touch, with a classic emerald cut diamond set in 18kt yellow gold, featuring a dainty split shank with french-set diamonds. If you look closely, you’ll find two round brilliants set at the sides of the setting for extra brightness.

Vintage Micropavé Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

For a full vintage, traditional look, this 18kt white gold engagement ring has you covered. Features a dazzling emerald cut, bezel-set diamond with a micropavé halo for maximum brilliance. The band is also adorned with rows of micropavé diamonds, creating a stunning reflection effect.

Coil Twist Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

If you were looking for a wow factor, this is it. Everything about this design is magical and dramatic. The alternating shapes of the band produce a unique look. With eight round brilliant diamonds on each side, this 18kt yellow gold treasure won’t go unnoticed.

Final Note on Emerald Cut Diamonds

There is less carat weight loss when cutting a rough diamond into an emerald shape than when cutting a round brilliant. Emerald cut diamonds are more cost-effective and, therefore, less expensive than other brilliant cuts.

Although they are not the most sparkly diamond cut in the market, emerald cut diamonds are still beautiful and sought after by their clean, sophisticated symmetrical look.

At Ritani.com, you will find the perfect natural or lab-grown emerald cut diamond to create your dream engagement ring.

Read Next: Oval Cut Diamond Engagement Ring Buying Guide