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