History
The Emerald shape diamond received its name when a diamond cutter chose to cut a diamond in an Emerald shape as opposed to an Emerald. Emerald shapes are cut with "stepped" facets, which means the facets resemble steps on a staircase.
The Emerald cut provides for a very elegant classic look and is known for its long lines. The pavilion (bottom portion of the stone) is cut with large rectangular facets to create an open effect or optical appearance.
Emerald Diamond "Cut"
The cut of a diamond determines its brilliance. A poorly cut diamond will have a dull appearance even if it has perfect color and clarity. The cut is considered one of the most important diamond characteristics by gemologists. It is based on factors that determine the light performance, dimensions, and finish of a stone.
The cut should reflect the maximum amount of light to the viewer's eye. For example, if a diamond is cut too shallow light will be lost out of the pavilion (bottom) and the diamond will lose brilliance. If the diamond is cut too deep, the light will escape through the sides and the diamond will appear dark.
Since Emerald cut diamonds are designed with larger facets, you need to be sure that you are familiar with the qualities of a good cut. An Emerald diamond makes a beautiful engagement ring as a solitaire or set with other stones.
Recommendations
When buying Emerald cut diamonds, there are a few recommendations for getting the best diamond. We recommend a cut rating of Excellent or Very good.
For budget minded purchasers of Emerald cut diamonds, you should follow the minimum Cut rating of Good.
Color, Clarity, and Length to width ratio are something to consider carefully when choosing this cut. Certain ratios offer a traditional rectangular look while others offer a square look. Color and Clarity are also very important because of the large open rectangular facets.
Suggested Guidelines for Emerald Cut Diamonds
| Cut |
Excellent |
Very Good |
Good |
| Color |
D, E |
F |
G |
| Clarity |
IF, F, VVS1, VVS2 |
VS2 |
VS1 |
| Depth % |
60.0% - 63.0% |
59.0% - 59.9% or 63.1% - 65.0% |
58.0% - 58.9% or 65.1% - 70.0% |
| Table % |
53.0% - 57.9% |
58.0% - 65.0% |
65.1% - 75.0% |
| Girdle |
Medium |
Thin to Thick |
Very Thin to Very Thick |
| Ratio |
1.35 - 1.55:1.00 |
1.30 - 1.54 or 1.56 - 1.65:1.00 |
1.25 - 1.29 or 1.66 - 1.70:1.00 |
Quick Glossary
Cut – the proportions and finish of a polished diamond. Many Gemologists believe cut is the most important of the 4 Cs.
Color grading – a system of grading diamonds based on either being colorless for white diamonds or hue, depth of color, and saturation of color for fancy color diamonds. For white diamonds, GIA uses a scale of D-Z in which D is colorless and Z is light yellow. Z should not be confused with yellow fancy color diamonds.
Clarity characteristics – internal or external feature of a diamond that helps determine the quality and establish its identity.
Depth % – a ratio of the total depth of a diamond from table to culet compared to the total diameter.
Table % – the diamond’s table size expressed as a percentage of its average girdle diameter.
Girdle – the outer edge or outline of the diamond’s shape.
Girdle thickness % – girdle thickness expressed as a percentage of the average girdle diameter.