Why Choose Emerald Cut Diamonds?

Loose diamonds come in a wide variety of cuts, both rounded and rectangular; emerald cut diamonds are an example of the latter.

Round Brilliant or Step?

Loose diamonds for sale may be cut in a round or oval fashion, or in a square or rectangular manner. Each type of cut has its advantages and appeal.

First of all, it's helpful to understand that diamonds have certain qualities by which they are judged; primary qualities are brilliance/fire, and clarity. Round brilliant cuts such as oval diamonds are cut in order to display the gem's brilliance and fire.

Emerald cut diamonds are not nearly as brilliant as their round and oval counterparts. Such a cut has traditionally been used for emeralds, hence the name; it is the most common of the square/rectangular step cuts (so-called because of its resemblance to stairs). What these diamonds lack in brilliance however, they make up for in clarity. Looking into an emerald cut diamond is like peering into pure, glacier-water ice; the full depth of the stone is clearly visible.

How Does Cut Affect Value?

This is a difficult question, and highly subjective. Currently, the preference among buyers of diamond jewelry is for brilliant cuts, which are generally rounded or oval. Because of this, rectangular step-cut diamonds may have less monetary value.

On the other hand, because of the nature of the cut that accentuates the gem's clarity, such stones must necessarily be flawless; with emerald cut diamonds, the slightest imperfections would be clearly seen. Generally, the investor or collector is much better off spending the extra money for high quality gems when buying emerald cut diamonds.

Rectilinear cuts were also quite popular during the Art Deco period from 1920 to the late 1940s. Many antique settings from that time have step-cut gems. As a result, the industry is seeing a growing demand for emerald cut diamonds and similar gems for reproductions and restorations of antique diamond jewelry.

Famous Emerald Cut Diamond Rings

One of the most famous emerald cut diamonds is set in a ring worn by Lady Camilla Bowles, who eventually married Prince Charles Windsor of Great Britain.

American "royalty" also apparently has developed a taste for such diamonds; this cut was used for the engagement ring worn by the third Mrs. Donald Trump. Nicole Richie and Paris Hilton also wear such rings.

If this preference by the rich and famous is any indication, it seems that the popularity of emerald cut diamonds will continue to increase, adding to their value as a collector gem and an investment vehicle over time.

Jonathon Blocker specializes in diamond jewelry, oval diamonds, and emerald cut diamonds. He is a consultant for GemFind.com, a trusted name in the jewelry industry since 1999.