Emerald cut engagement rings are incredibly distinct, elegant, and eye-catching. Instead of the brilliant or radiating look of other faceting patterns, the emerald cut is a step-style, with long, linear, mirror-like facets. And while this means that they don't sparkle as much as brilliant cuts, such as a round cut, they have their own unique qualities, including a ‘hall of mirrors’ effect that beautifully plays with light and the diamonds' facets.
The emerald cut is one of the oldest diamond cuts, dating back as far as the 1500s. As its name suggests, this cut was originally created for emerald gemstones. However, it was not until the 1920’s, during the Art Deco era, that the cut saw its rise in popularity, particularly for diamonds. Today, it graces the fingers of some of the most well-known celebrities, including Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, Paris Hilton, Eva Longoria, and many Kristin Coffin brides.
Is Emerald Cut a Fancy Cut?
Yes! Any diamond or gemstone shape other than round is considered “fancy.” Other fancy cuts include pear-shaped diamonds, radiant-cut diamonds, and oval-shaped diamonds. Fancy shapes allow the wearer to express their individuality and preferences outside the more traditional round shaped diamond or gemstone.
Is Emerald Good for an Engagement Ring?
Emerald cuts are beautiful in engagement rings, but it’s essential to know what to look for when buying an emerald shape. Since the linear facets are so crisp and clear, inclusions can be spotted more easily than in brilliant cut shapes, such as a round or cushion. At Kristin Coffin, we only offer emerald gemstones that have clarity and color graded at VS/G or higher, so that any inclusions won’t be visible to the naked eye, and so that the stone will appear brilliant and white.
Emerald diamonds are a perfect option for a bride looking to add a bold twist to create a truly unique engagement ring. Emerald shapes are striking and stunning on their own, or when set with accent diamonds, such as trillions side diamonds in our Avery three-stone ring style.
Do Emerald Cut Diamonds Chip Easily?
While it’s crucial to be fragile and conscientious with all diamonds, gemstones, and fine jewelry, an emerald cut is just as durable as any other cut. Choosing a stone with high clarity (VS or higher) will minimize inclusions, which are weaker points in the stone. Plus, our settings are made to order and set by artisans with decades of experience, so your emerald-cut diamond is (quite literally) in good hands.
Does Oval or Emerald Look Bigger?
Due to their elongated shape and unique proportions, both oval and emerald diamonds or gemstones can appear larger to the naked eye than a round brilliant cut. However, oval and emerald stones are incredibly different in appearance from one another. Oval diamonds sparkle more similarly to round brilliant cuts since they’re also considered a brilliant cut faceting style, whereas emerald cut have less facets, creating less overall sparkle.
Non-diamond Emerald Gemstones
While emerald diamonds (natural or lab-grown) are an excellent option for a bride-to-be, many other gemstones might appeal to the emerald-cut fan. Our emerald engagement rings are available in non-traditional stones such as grey moissanite, sapphires, and salt and pepper diamonds.