Shimmering Squares: A Closer Look at Asscher Cut Diamonds
Among the many diamond cuts available, the Asscher cut stands out as a captivating and elegant choice. Also known as the square emerald, its unique geometric shape and enchanting sparkle have made it a popular option for engagement rings and other exquisite jewelry pieces for over 100 years now.
As you can imagine, Asscher cut diamonds vary in appearance based on their dimensions and carat weight. A dainty one-carat sparkler looks far different on your finger than a five-carat rock. In this article, we help you understand these sizes more clearly, so that you know which Asscher cut will create or complement the look you’re after.
About the Asscher Cut Diamond
This cut bears the name of its creator, Joseph Asscher, owner of the Asscher Diamond Company based in Amsterdam. Discovered in 1902, the original cut featured 58 facets, which added to its unusual charm. However, it wasn't until a century later that Joseph Asscher's great-grandnephew introduced a modified version known as the Royal Asscher Cut, which boasted an impressive 74 facets. A patent was issued to protect the ingenuity of this new cut, preventing its replication.
Asscher cut diamonds are known for their striking symmetry and square shape. They have stepped facets, creating a captivating play of light and enhancing its brilliance. The crisp, clean lines give it an unmistakable Art Deco charm, making it a standout choice among diamond enthusiasts.
Popularity and Appeal in Engagement Rings
The Asscher cut diamond experienced its heyday during the 1920s, a period celebrated for its Art Deco aesthetic. This era saw a surge in popularity for geometric shapes, characterized by zig zags, bold lines, and exaggerated curves.
The Asscher cut’s striking shape and intricate facets complemented the Art Deco wedding trend seamlessly, and even today these diamonds are a sought-after choice for those seeking a blend of vintage charm and modern elegance in their engagement rings. They look especially stunning in streamlined solitaires like The Kamellie or glittery halo rings like The Michelle.
What are the Dimensions of an Asscher Cut Diamond?
The dimensions of an Asscher cut diamond typically follow a square shape with specific length-to-width ratios. The most common length-to-width ratios for Asscher cut diamonds are generally close to 1.00, but there can be slight variations. The classic Asscher cut diamond often has a length-to-width ratio between 1.00 and 1.05, resulting in a nearly square appearance. It also has angled corners that make it a true octagon.
It's important to note that while the length-to-width ratio provides a general guideline for the dimensions of an Asscher cut diamond, the depth, table size, and angles of the facets also play a significant role in determining the diamond's overall appearance and brilliance.
Maximizing Your Asscher Cut Diamond’s Size
While the actual size of your Asscher cut diamond is dictated by dimensions and carat weight, there are other factors that affect its perceived size:
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Clarity: Stick to the VS clarity range (VS1, VS2, or higher) when choosing an Asscher cut diamond. Because of its step cut, flaws are more apparent through the facets. Higher clarity grades ensure a diamond that appears flawless and dazzling.
- Color: Asscher cuts tend to display more color than brilliant cuts. Aim for an H grade or higher to maintain a pleasing appearance. Pairing Asscher cut diamonds with rose or yellow gold settings can help mask any faint tint the stone might have, ensuring it looks its best. If your setting includes larger side stones, make sure their color matches that of the center stone. Mismatched colors can detract from the overall quality and sophistication of the piece, creating an unbalanced appearance.
The setting and mounting of your Asscher cut diamond are equally critical in enhancing its size and beauty. Choose a setting that allows ample light to enter and interact with the diamond's facets, enhancing its brilliance. Prong settings or halo settings are popular choices for Asscher cut diamonds as they expose more of the stone's surface to light.
Comparing the Asscher With Similar Cuts
The Asscher cut, with its distinct square shape and stepped facets, offers a glimpse into the precision of geometric design. Now let's compare it with other popular cuts like emerald, elongated cushion, and radiant.
Emerald Cut
Emerald cut diamonds offer a rectangular shape that elongates the finger. With its broad, flat planes, this cut prioritizes clarity over brilliance. It's a cut for those who admire sleek, modern silhouettes. Emerald cuts can appear larger than an Asscher cut of similar weight, making them a good choice for those seeking more visual size per carat.
Elongated Cushion Cut
The elongated cushion cut is a more modern take on the traditional cushion cut. It combines the classic, soft rounded corners of a cushion with a longer shape, giving it an elegant, slender appearance. This cut belongs to the brilliant-cut family, known for its ability to maximize light reflection and refraction. As a result, elongated cushion diamonds tend to exhibit a more pronounced sparkle or 'fire' than Asscher cuts, making them highly sought after by those who prefer a more dramatic and contemporary look.
Radiant Cut
The radiant cut is a more contemporary design, having been first crafted in the 1970s. It is a brilliant-cut diamond, like the popular round cut, known for its ability to maximize light reflection, creating a radiant sparkle (hence the name). It typically has 70 facets, which allow it to capture and reflect light more effectively, resulting in a vibrant and lively appearance. The radiant cut is an excellent choice for those who love the Asscher cut's shape but desire the intense sparkle of a brilliant cut.
Conclusion
The Asscher cut’s unique geometric shape and mesmerizing sparkle have made it a top choice for engagement rings and exquisite jewelry. Pippa Middleton, Gwyneth Paltrow, and Jessica Alba are all fans, and it’s so easy to see why.
If you’re looking for an Asscher cut engagement ring, we invite you to check out the exquisite collection at Keyzar. Our experts are also ready to assist you in finding the perfect stone and setting. Embrace the elegance of the Asscher cut and create a ring that will be cherished for generations to come.
