The Truth Behind the Emerald Engagement Ring Cut

While the round brilliant and princess cut diamonds rings are deemed to be the most popular on the market, it is hard to compete with the emerald cut when it comes to its rich and ancient history. This particular engagement ring cut has long been valued for its elegant and sophisticated appearance and is believed to date from early Egyptian times when emeralds were prized as one of the great royal jewels.

Originally, this oblong rectangular cut was preferred for emeralds because it better complimented the brilliance and sparkle of the stone. Later, any gem cut in this oblong fashion was labelled an emerald cut, and eventually diamonds became the gem of choice to carry forward the tradition of this engagement ring type. However, to this day, the emerald version remains extremely popular with nearly all gemstones.

An emerald cut is sometimes referred to as a step or a table cut, given that the facets are cut in steps parallel to the edges of the stone, an effect which could be described as a pyramid with its top chopped off. While this style is highly effective, especially in coloured stones where the play of colour is more intense, the emerald engagement ring version typically reflects less light than standard brilliant ones and needs to be of the highest quality, as any inclusions are more readily visible. Typically, the four corners of an emerald cut stone are mitred in order to protect the stone, as any sharp points are vulnerable to getting chipped.

The emerald cut ring is popular due to its being an extremely efficient style, which is why both the emerald and princess cut stones are appreciated by jewellers. This special type allows the person cutting the stone to utilise up to 80% of the rough gem; this is a dramatic contrast when compared with the average percentage utilised when cutting a round brilliant – which can often be around 50%. The stone for an emerald cut is also much easier to cut, with there typically being fewer facets involved than in other gemstone cuts, thereby reducing the labour time. This lower number allows each facet in an emerald engagement ring cut to be more distinct, often creating dramatic flashes of light instead of the more subtle sparkle created by other types.

While there are a number of important factors to keep in mind when looking at emerald cut rings – such as the symmetry, the clarity, the width and depth of the stone – the emerald cut remains greatly admired as a thing of beauty and sophistication.

Frederick Holm is staff writer for of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From the best engagement ring cut to precious metals and coloured stones, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.