Emerald cut diamond engagement rings are one of the most popular diamond rings ever to exist. The cut is timeless, chic, and tasteful—no matter the metal of the band. Emerald cut diamonds have a special way of fusing a traditional look with a modern setting. The emerald shape never goes out of style, never loses its allure, and is always on trend.

Read more to learn about the story of the emerald cut diamond engagement ring and why this shape of diamond has been a top choice for hundreds of years.

A Rich History

“Emerald cut” stone shaping dates back to the 1500s. Way back when, stonecutters created a process to cut emerald gemstones that required less pressure in order to avoid chipping and cracking. Since gemstones are much softer than diamonds, this process was necessary for the sake of keeping the gemstones in one piece.

When you look at an emerald cut diamond or gemstone, you can see that the top part of the stone is flat while the sides have ridges. This style of shaping creates a smooth finish that showcases the pigment of the stone. The side edging of the stone almost makes the diamond look like a framed photo, with a visible border around the center of the focal stone. These “framed” looking cuts are called ‘step cuts’.  

Step cuts add shadow to the stone in certain places, giving it an infinity-mirror effect. The shadows cast light on different parts of the stone, and ultimately act as the supporting actress to the main character: the flat part of the top of the stone. 

Over time, jewelers found that people loved the way this style of shaping looked. Before long, the shape and cut had made its way to other stones, like diamonds. Hence the name “emerald cut” diamonds. Or, as previously mentioned, “emerald cut” anything (gemstones, diamonds, etc.) 

Even after hundreds of years, the process for cutting stones of all kinds into an emerald shape has changed very little. 

Meta data: emerald cut diamonds

The Rising Star of The Diamond Industry

The cut gained modern popularity in the 1920s, when the Art Deco era was at its peak.

The Art Deco era was a time when American pop culture valued geometric shapes, pristine and crisp lines, and the consistency of symmetry. And while emerald cut diamond engagement rings might give off a vintage feel, they will always be representative of a time in American history where art and culture were at the forefront of design and expression. 

For this reason, the emerald cut diamond engagement ring continues to be untouched by the hands of time. Even in 2022, brides love emerald cut diamond engagement rings because they are a style of diamond that can do what others can’t: make a classic vintage style relevant, modern, and on-trend.

Today, emerald cut diamond rings are still popular for a myriad of reasons.

One reason being that this shape of diamond is incredibly accessible at any price point. Whether you’re looking for a large emerald cut diamond engagement ring, or your budget allows for a smaller stone— the possibilities are endless. This style of cut is available at different quality gradings and a lot of different sizes.

Another reason that the emerald cut diamond engagement ring remains in demand is because of its price point. Although a “fancy” cut of diamond, emerald cut diamonds are often more affordable than other types of cuts.

Things to Consider

It is important to talk to a jeweler and understand the variables when it comes to purchasing an emerald cut diamond engagement ring. Also, this style of ring looks different in person and in various tones of light. Make sure to make an appointment and see the ring for yourself before you make a purchase online. 

If you’re in the market for an emerald cut diamond ring, let us help you make the right choice. As discussed in this blog, there are many things to consider when buying this style of diamond shape. Or really any shape!

Contact us today to discuss our inventory of engagement rings and to see if we have the right ring for your budget. Helping people find the ring of their dreams is nothing short of an honor for us!