The Asscher cut diamond was popular back in the 1900s, and not only does it have a unique appeal, but it is also rare. Ascher cut diamond, also known as the square emerald cut, features a square shape with about 50 to 58 facets.
The cut usually has a length-to-width ratio of 1:1.04 with large deep facets with a high crown. Thanks to the depth, high crown, and many facets, the diamond exhibits a hall of mirrors effect and produces remarkable brilliance.
The good thing about shopping for an Asscher cut diamond is getting information on the pieces and retailers online is as easy as getting free spins from an online casino.
Are Asscher Cut Diamonds the Most Expensive?
While Asscher cut diamond is expensive, it does not necessarily mean it is the most expensive cut. For instance, round diamond cuts are the costliest due to their exceptional brilliance and outstanding sparkle.
The cut is expensive because it is difficult to cut, and a lot of raw diamond waste is created in the process. The size of the Asscher cut diamond appears smaller than other cuts of the same carat weight, meaning you have to get a larger diamond which will cost you more.
How Much Sparkle Does Ascher Cut Diamond Have?
Since Asscher diamonds are step-cut, they exhibit a glassy and brilliant appearance. However, it is worth noting it does not produce the most sparkle like the round cut as its facet pattern does not return the lightest.
One thing that makes the cut stand out is its ability to show clarity and colour better than the brilliant cuts; the diamond’s deep shape accentuates the colour. Therefore, the Ascher cut diamond would be ideal if you value clarity and fire.
Buying an Asscher Cut Diamond Ring
It all boils down to personal style and preference when buying an engagement or ornamental diamond ring. Asscher cut diamonds have a vintage appeal that gives off an incredible glamour. If you love emerald cuts, an Asscher cut diamond will charm you.
Remember that Asscher cut diamonds, unlike most cuts, are not cut for brilliance. This knowledge will help you avoid confusion. You will be looking at the clarity and lustre of the diamond you are looking to buy.
The Asscher cut diamond is unique because flaws are often so easy to spot with the naked eye, thanks to their open and large facets. The shopping experience should therefore not be too complicated. Here are the factors to consider getting the perfect Asscher cut.
1. Pick a higher color grade
As aforementioned, it is easy to notice flaws in an Asscher cut diamond due to the large facets. Worth noting also is that faceting does hide a bit of colour. Asscher cuts have larger facets, meaning it features fewer facets; thus, tinted stones are not recommended.
The best colour grade will depend on your personal preference on how many colours you would love to see in your diamond; it is best to go below colour H.
However, if you are looking for less colour, maintain the above colour H. Some buyers prefer when no colour is visible. In this case, color D-F is recommended as it is fairly colourless. However, this choice will attract a higher price tag as it has a higher demand.
Consulting a gemologist can help as you will get support to inspect your stone and get advice on the colour saturation of your Asscher cut ring.
2. Pick a higher clarity grade
The best clarity grade for the Asscher cut stone is VS2-FL. It would help if you didn’t go below VS2 clarity. Remember, the cut features large table facets, with the rows stepping down to the next. This means there is no variation of facets that play a critical role in breaking light into multiple pieces producing sparkle.
The Asscher cut diamond does not produce enough sparkle for our eyes to see. The best way an Asscher cut diamond shows its beauty is through sharpness and clarity. A higher clarity will therefore give you the best experience.
3. Depth
Depth of 65%-72% is the most recommended for Asscher cut stones. There are three primary grades of depth: Excellent: 76%-56%, Very Good: 78%-53%, and Good: 81%-50%.
Essentially, the lower the depth, the better for this cut. A high depth is more useful in the brilliant cuts than step cuts like Asscher. This is mainly because depth is not required for brilliance for step cuts. Therefore, you are allowed to go as low as you can.
Low depth also comes with the benefit of a larger-looking diamond.
4. Setting
The best setting is solitaire because it allows the unique step design of the Asscher cut diamond to stand out. If you are looking for a more complex design, a halo setting with diamonds detail will also work.
Four prong setting is also ideal for a sophisticated Asscher cut diamond ring. Maintaining a comfortable prong length is also essential, as the higher it is, the more likely it will get stuck on things.
While there are all these options for Asscher cut setting, a simple solitaire carries the day as it goes perfectly with the minimalist diamond design.
Take Away
There is more to buying diamond rings than most people are aware of. It is essential to research the different cuts and how best they are presented. The guide will come in handy if you want to buy an Asscher cut diamond ring or ear studs.
