While round cuts remain the most popular stone shape for engagement rings, fancy cuts are getting more and more attention from brides-to-be! This is especially true for emerald cut stones. The growing popularity of Art Deco-inspired jewelry and of vintage and estate rings has led to a resurgence for this glamorous cut.

The brand-new Fallon Ring, now available on Moissanite.com. We love the halo & emerald cut combo!

The brand-new Fallon Ring, now available on Moissanite.com. We love the halo & emerald cut combo!

Emerald cuts are what’s known as “step-cuts”, meaning that the facets are parallel to the girdle (for a primer on gemstone anatomy, check out this post). The name “emerald cut” comes from – you guessed it – the cutting of emeralds. Emeralds are prone to inclusions and to corner chipping and damage; hence the cut’s emphasis on internal clarity and its characteristically truncated corners.  While originally developed for emeralds, this cut is now available for gemstones like moissanite and diamond. With large facets and clean lines, emerald cut white gems make excellent center stones for chic, modern brides-to-be.

This minimalist solitaire engagement ring from Lily Emme Jewelry is so dainty and lovely!

This minimalist solitaire engagement ring from Lily Emme Jewelry is so dainty and lovely!

tarynemeraldcut

Bold yet airy, the new Taryn Ring from Moissanite.com is perfect for the elegant bride-to-be

The stepped facets of the cut create the unique “hall of mirrors” effect that makes emerald cuts so desirable, and so versatile. Emerald cuts look gorgeous in a wide variety of settings, from the minimalist to the highly ornate. Not to mention the fact that they tend to make the wearer’s fingers look skinny!

Two-tone gold adds a unique touch to this ring from KaratJewelryGroup on Etsy

Two-tone gold adds a unique touch to this ring from KaratJewelryGroup on Etsy

Emerald cuts also make a wonderful option for east-west engagement rings. As we’ve mentioned in the past, east-west styles are currently very trendy in bridal jewelry. They’re sleek, stylish, and perfectly suited for sophisticated brides!

This 0.5ctw east-west ring from Nested Yellow is too delicate and sweet for words!

This 0.5ctw east-west ring from Nested Yellow is too delicate and sweet for words!

So, what’s the downside to an emerald cut engagement ring? Well, one issue is that due to its large open facets, an emerald cut will show internal flaws more obviously than any other type of cut.  Luckily, all moissanite emerald cuts have a very high degree of clarity, and with less of a price premium than emerald cut diamonds with the same clarity level.

The Camarie by Venazia is a stunner! Moissanite.com, $2,999

The Camarie by Venazia is an emerald cut stunner! Moissanite.com, $2,999

Ready to impress with an emerald cut ring (or pendant, or earrings)? Check out the latest emerald cut styles on Moissanite.com!