Step Cut Diamonds: A Guide to Choosing the Best One
When it comes to choosing the perfect diamond, there are a variety of factors to consider. One of the most important is the cut of the diamond, and one type of cut that has been growing in popularity recently is step cut diamonds available in both lab-grown and natural diamonds. This blog post will explore everything you need to know about these diamonds. From understanding what makes a step cut diamond different from other types of brilliant cuts then go on to explore the different types of step cut diamonds available in the market.
From emerald-cut diamonds to carré diamonds, we have got them all covered! We will also look at the historical significance of step cut diamonds and how they evolved over time. Lastly, we will introduce you to our latest collection of stunning step cut diamond jewelry.
What is a Step Cut Diamond?
Step cut diamonds prioritize elegance over sparkle with their rectangular shape and fewer facets, creating a hall of mirrors effect. Diamond facets are flat, polished surfaces on a diamond that contribute to its brilliance and sparkle by refracting and reflecting light. Generally, step cut diamonds are known for their open table facets and clean lines. With fewer, longer facets, this diamond shape, including the popular emerald, baguette, cut, and Asscher cut, offers exceptional brilliance.
This popular diamond cut emphasizes clarity grade, making it ideal for a center stone in a diamond engagement ring. The symmetry and straight lines of these diamonds, along with their clean lines, have made them one of the popular shapes in diamond jewelry, resonating with their historical significance and association with royalty.
Difference Between Step Cut Diamonds And Brilliant Cut Diamonds
Here’s a table highlighting the differences between step cut diamonds and brilliant cut diamonds:
| Feature | Step Cut Diamonds | Brilliant Cut Diamonds |
|---|---|---|
| Facet Arrangement | Fewer, larger facets in parallel lines | Numerous smaller facets in a complex arrangement |
| Shape of Facets | Rectangular or trapezoidal facets | Triangular or kite-shaped facets |
| Table and Culet | Larger table and culet | Smaller table and culet |
| Light Reflection | Less brilliance and fire | Higher brilliance and fire |
| Cuts and Inclusions | Often used to highlight clarity and color | May hide inclusions better |
| Popular Shapes | Emerald and Asscher cuts | Round, Princess, Cushion, etc. |
| Vintage Appeal | Often associated with vintage or Art Deco styles | Modern and versatile styles |
| Transparency | Highlights the diamond’s clarity | Emphasizes the diamond’s brilliance |
| Popularity | Classic and timeless, gaining popularity | Widely popular and widely used |
Exploring Different Types of Step Cut Diamonds
Step-cut diamonds come in various types, each with its unique characteristics. For example, emerald cut diamonds feature a rectangular shape with cropped corners and are known for their elegant look. Asscher cut diamonds, popular in the 1920s, are step cut square emerald shapes that exude timeless beauty.
Additionally, baguette-cut diamonds are often used as side stones in jewelry and are characterized by their step cut and elongated shape. Similarly, Carré diamonds, with their parallel lines, offer a stunning alternative to traditional step cut stones.
Emerald Cut Diamonds
Emerald cut diamonds, popular during the Art Deco period, feature rectangular facets that prioritize clarity and color grade. With fewer, long facets, these diamonds emphasize elegance, symmetry, and clean lines, highlighted by high crown facets. The step-cut style of emerald diamonds ensures a focus on clarity grade and color grade, making them popular for solitaire engagement rings.
Asscher Cut Diamonds
The 16th-century development of asscher-cut diamonds led to the creation of step cut square shapes that emphasize clean lines, symmetry, and elegance. This diamond shape, showcasing brilliance and sparkle through step-cut pyramid facets, prioritizes clarity grade and carat weight with fewer, parallel lines. The exceptional luster exuded by the Asscher cut diamond makes it a popular choice, especially for center stones in delicate diamond rings.
Baguette Cut Diamonds
Baguette cut diamonds, also known as step cuts, feature straight, parallel lines in rectangular facets. There are two types of baguette cut diamonds available; straight baguette and tapered baguette. These diamonds are commonly used as side stones in bracelets and necklaces and are favored for their exceptional brilliance and sparkle. The shape of a baguette cut diamond accentuates its elegance and luster, making it a popular choice in jewelry.
Carré Diamonds
Carré diamonds, with their step cut facets, bear a close resemblance to baguette-cut and asscher-cut diamonds but in a square shape with sharp corners. Renowned for their clean lines and symmetrical appeal, these diamonds exude elegance. Similar to the other cuts, carré diamonds emanate exceptional brilliance and sparkle, making them a popular choice for those seeking a truly radiant and sophisticated diamond.
Other Fancy Shapes Step Cut Diamonds
In addition to traditional step cut diamonds like the emerald, asscher, baguette, and carré cuts, there are also many other fancy-shaped step cut diamonds. These include the Trapezoid Step Cut Diamond, Half Moon Step Cut Diamond, and Hexagon and Octagon Step Cut Diamonds, which have been gaining popularity in recent years due to their modern look.
These alternatives to the conventional round cut not only broaden the spectrum of possibilities for diamond enthusiasts but also offer a personalized and unique canvas for crafting exquisite jewelry pieces.
Trapezoid Step Cut Diamond
The trapezoid step cut diamond features four sides with straight lines, where the parallel sides may be of different lengths. This shape creates a distinctive and modern look while maintaining the classic step-cut faceting.
Half Moon Step Cut Diamond
The half moon step cut diamond has a semi-circular shape with a flat edge on one side, resembling a half moon. This shape is often used as a side stone to complement other center stones in jewelry designs.
Hexagon Step Cut Diamond
The hexagon step cut diamond has six sides with straight lines, forming a geometric and symmetrical shape. This unique hexagonal cut provides a contemporary and eye-catching appearance.
Octagon Step Cut Diamond
The octagon step cut diamond features eight sides with straight lines, creating an octagonal shape. This cut combines the elegance of step cuts with the allure of a distinctive geometric outline.
Historical Significance of Step Cut Diamonds
Step cut diamonds, such as the emerald cut, have a rich history dating back to the 16th century. During the Art Deco period, these diamond shapes became popular for their emphasis on elegance and symmetry. Historical step cut diamonds, including the Asscher cut, were renowned for their exceptional brilliance and sparkle. In the 1920s, step-cut diamonds gained prominence for their clean lines and lustrous appearance, becoming a popular choice for jewelry enthusiasts.
Shopping Guide: Our Latest Step Cut Diamond Jewelry
Introducing the epitome of elegance and sophistication – our latest collection of Step Cut Diamond Jewelry. Crafted with unparalleled precision and adorned with mesmerizing step-cut diamonds, this exquisite ensemble redefines luxury in every facet. From timeless engagement rings to statement necklaces and dazzling earrings, each piece in our collection is a masterpiece that seamlessly marries tradition with contemporary design.
- Diamond Statement Ring with Baguette Cut
- Open Band Ring With Baguette Cut Diamond
- Baguette-Cut Tennis Bracelet
- Diamonds Baguette Stud Earrings
- Emerald Cut Tennis Diamond Necklace
- Emerald Cut Tennis Bracelet
