5 Reasons Why Emerald Cut Diamonds Are the Wrong Choice

An emerald cut diamond typically consists of 57 facets and boasts an elongated rectangular shape with cut-off corners–its appearance is commanding. Instead of the brilliance and sparkle you're used to with round or cushion diamonds, you'll see flashes of light in the emerald cut due to its linear, straight facets.

Considering proposing with an emerald cut engagement ring but have some reservations? Let’s address some common concerns:

- Are they outdated? While emerald cut diamonds have a vintage charm, they’ve stood the test of time for over 500 years. Their classic appeal transcends trends, making them a timeless choice.

- Do they highlight flaws? Emerald cuts do tend to reveal more imperfections compared to other cuts. However, selecting a high-quality stone with excellent clarity can minimize this issue.

- Do they lack sparkle? Emerald cut diamonds have a unique elegance rather than a fiery sparkle. However, with the right cut and setting, they can still dazzle and command attention.

While these concerns have some validity, let’s delve deeper into why emerald cut diamonds might not be the perfect fit, albeit with a focus on the possibility:

1. Emerald Cuts Aren’t Very Bright!

This concern has some merit. Emerald cut diamonds have a cut style that typically results in less sparkle, brilliance, and fire compared to round and princess cuts. The reason lies in their fewer, longer, and narrower facets, which lead to less light refraction and dispersion.

Moreover, emerald cut diamonds feature a larger table (the flat top surface) than other shapes, further contributing to a diminished sparkle and brilliance. If you desire a diamond that catches the eye and sparkles brilliantly in any lighting, you might want to consider cuts like round or princess, which are designed for maximum light reflection and scintillation.

With its long, elegant lines and unique step-cut facets, the emerald cut emphasizes clarity and color over sparkle and brilliance. Choosing a higher color grade can enhance the diamond's overall appearance, making it appear brighter and more vibrant. Look for diamonds with a color grade of G or higher.

Once you pick the right diamond, consider a side stone or pavé setting to amplify any brilliance the stone may lack on its own. This combination can create a stunning, eye-catching ring.

2. They Show Off EVERY Little Flaw!

This assertion is somewhat true. Emerald cut diamonds, like those too-tight jeans, can reveal every little flaw. In this case, the imperfections are inclusions—natural blemishes such as cavities, tiny crystals, and feathers. The large and open facets of emerald cut diamonds create a window-like effect, making these imperfections more noticeable.

Does that mean emerald cuts are a no-go? Absolutely not!

It just means you need to choose a diamond with a high clarity grade and minimal inclusions. Look for diamonds with a clarity grade of VS2 or higher, and consider showcasing them in a breathtaking pavé setting to enhance their overall beauty.

3. They Haven’t Been a Thing Since the 1920s!

Correction: emerald cut diamonds became a thing in the 1920s, when Art Deco was all the rage. The clean lines and geometric shapes of emerald cut diamonds perfectly complemented the sleek and modern style of Art Deco jewelry.

While it’s true that emerald cuts aren't currently as popular as round or princess cut diamonds, trends can and do change. Isn’t it better to choose a diamond cut with a long history of demand?

Emerald cuts are still a perfect fit for all kinds of designs, from classic to contemporary. Beyoncé wears a massive emerald-cut sparkler on her engagement ring, so enough said! If you want to follow Queen Bey’s example for your own queen, consider combining an emerald cut diamond with the vintage elegance of The Elizabeth or the sleek luster of The Alice.

4. Emerald Cuts? WAY Too Fancy and Expensive!

Actually, no. Emerald cuts tend to be more affordable than most other shapes. When cutting an emerald shape from raw diamond, there is less wastage than if you cut a rounded or princess shape, so you get more bling for your buck.

Having said that, you do generally need to go for a higher quality diamond in an emerald cut. This means you might end up paying more, but we’re not talking a small fortune. Remember- it’s for your bae’s engagement ring- definitely worth the splurge!

5. They’re Too Bulky!

Bulky? Not at all. However, emerald cut diamonds do look bigger on the finger. That’s a big difference—pun intended.

Diamonds are measured in carat weight, so two diamonds with the same carat weight are technically equal in size. However, if you line up one-carat diamonds of different shapes, such as emerald, pear, and round, the emerald cut looks bigger due to its elongated shape.

If you want a nice big rock but don’t want to go all out with a higher carat weight, an emerald cut is a clear winner. The combination of an emerald cut and a slim band creates maximum visual impact.

So there you have it. Emerald cut diamonds are timeless, impressive, and give you a lot of extra dazzle for your dollar. If there’s ever a rock that demands a YES, it’s this one. If you’re confident that an emerald cut engagement ring will rock her world, go with your heart. When she sees it, she’ll give you hers—guaranteed.