Emerald-cut diamond

An emerald-cut diamond has a rectangular step cut with cropped corners. The name describes the cutting style; the stone is not an emerald.

Broad areas of light

The parallel facets create long steps of light and dark. The appearance is calmer and more graphic than a brilliant-cut diamond. The length-to-width ratio determines how narrow or full the rectangle feels.

Open facets reveal more

The large table facet and broad steps can make colour and inclusions more apparent. Read the report, but also view the stone without magnification and in the metal you intend to choose.

What to compare

• Even cropped corners and straight sides.
• Symmetrical facet steps.
• A centred, balanced light pattern.
• Colour tint in the setting.
• The position and visibility of inclusions.

Setting

The cropped corners are less exposed to knocks than sharp points, but the setting should still support all four corners. Side stones can reinforce the long silhouette; a solitaire lets the step pattern stand alone.

Compare with an Asscher for a square step cut, or a radiant for rectangular brilliance. See all shapes.