Diamond Cut: Emerald
Discover the understated sophistication and timeless allure of emerald cut diamonds, celebrated for their sleek, rectangular shape and elegant step-cut facets.
History
The origins of the emerald-cut diamond can be traced back to the 16th century, a time when diamond-cutting techniques were rapidly evolving in Europe. Initially designed for emeralds, the cut was later modified to display the natural beauty and clarity of diamonds. Its popularity surged during the Art Deco period of the 1920s and 1930s due to its clean, crisp lines and geometric elegance. Even to this day, the emerald cut diamond is highly coveted for its classic sophistication and understated glamour, making it an ideal selection for engagement rings and other exquisite jewelry pieces.
The Concierge recommendation…
Color
Unlike other fancy cuts, the emerald cut is not very good at hiding the natural color of the diamond. Therefore, we recommend choosing a higher-graded color when going for a colorless look. Choose G or higher for smaller stones and F or higher for stones over 1.0 Carat.
Clarity
The emerald-cut diamond has a unique shape that looks like steps. This design makes it easier to see through the diamond and spot any inclusions. However, it also means that any inclusions located under the large table facet may be visible to the naked eye, which is not ideal. To avoid this, it is recommended to choose a VS1-VS2 clarity grade or higher to ensure that the diamond is eye-clean. For diamonds over 1 carat, it is recommended to opt for a VVS clarity grade.
Cut
It is worth noting that GIA does not grade the cut of emerald cut diamonds. So, what should you be looking for instead? Well, an ideal depth percentage for an emerald-cut diamond falls between 60% and 69%. However, it is not easy to find a diamond with a depth of 65% or lower. In addition, it is recommended to look for a stone with a table percentage within the same range, 60-69%. This will help ensure that your diamond is beautiful and dazzling. As for polishing and symmetry, it is generally advisable to opt for grades ranging from Good to Excellent, depending on your budget.
Emerald cut diamonds size chart
| MM | CARAT WEIGHT |
|---|---|
| 4 x 3 | 0.25 |
| 5 x 3 | 0.33 |
| 5 x 4 | 0.40 |
| 6 x 3 | 0.50 |
| 6 x 4 | 0.60 |
| 6.4 x 4.5 | 0.75 |
| 7 x 5 | 1.00 |
| 8 x 6 | 1.50 |
| 8.5 x 6.5 | 2.00 |
| 9 x 7 | 2.50 |
| 10 x 8 | 3.00 |
| 11 x 9 | 4.00 |
| 12 x 10 | 5.00 |
Emerald cut diamonds - cut guide
| EXCELLENT | VERY GOOD | GOOD | FAIR | POOR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| TABLE % | 61 - 69 | 57 - 60 OR 70 - 72 |
54 - 56 OR 73 - 74 |
51 - 53 OR 75 - 79 |
< 51 OR >79 |
| DEPTH % | 61 - 67 | 59 - 60.9 OR 67.1 - 70 |
57 - 58.9 OR 70.1 - 74 |
54 - 56.9 OR 74.1 - 79 |
< 54 OR >79 |
| GIRDLE | Very Thin - Slightly Thick |
Very Thin - Slightly Thick |
Very Thin TO Thick |
Very Thin TO Very Thick |
Ex. Thin TO Ex. Thick |
| CULET | None | Very Small | Small | Medium | >Medium |
Emerald cut diamonds - length to width guide
| EXCELLENT | VERY GOOD | GOOD | FAIR | POOR | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SQUARE | 1.00 - 1.03 | 1.00 - 1.03 | 1.04 - 1.05 | 1.06 - 1.08 | > 1.08 |
| RECTANGLE | 1.40 - 1.50 | 1.30 - 1.39 OR 1.51. - 1.60 |
1.20 - 1.29 OR 1.61 - 1.80 |
1.15 - 1.19 OR 1.81 - 1.90 |
< 1.15 OR > 1.90 |