My Bottom Line Recommendation
I strongly recommend reading the full Asscher Cut Diamond Guide below; however, if you are here for a quick brief, here’s what you must know about Asscher diamonds:
To select an Asscher cut diamond that truly captivates, focus on the 4Cs—clarity, color, carat weight, and cut measurements. For clarity, aim for at least a VS2-VS1 grade. Color-wise, an H grade offers a balanced appearance, though you can venture into J-I for yellow or rose gold settings. Consider buying up in carat weight to ensure comparable visual size to round brilliants.
As for cut measurements:
Length-to-width ratio: 1.00 – 1.05
Girdle thickness: Very thin to medium
Polish/Symmetry: Excellent
Depth: 61.6-68.1%
Table: 54.5-67.5%
Crown angle: 11.5-15.5
Pavilion angle: 45-51
Culet size: None or Small
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Table of Contents
Have you ever been captivated by the vintage charm and unique features of a rare diamond cut? Enter the enchanting world of asscher cut diamond, a distinctive and mesmerizing gemstone with a rich history and unparalleled beauty. In this comprehensive guide, you’ll discover the allure of asscher cut diamond, compare them to other popular diamond shapes, and learn how to choose the perfect gemstone for your unforgettable piece of jewelry.
Unveiling the Asscher Cut Diamond
Asscher cut diamonds are unique square step-cut diamonds that exude elegance and sophistication. With a rich history dating back to the early 1900s and distinct features such as cropped corners and an X pattern with long facets, Asscher cut diamonds offer a distinctive and rare choice for those seeking a truly remarkable gemstone.
History and Origin
The Asscher cut diamond was masterfully crafted by the renowned Asscher brothers of Holland’s Asscher Diamond Company in 1902. This innovative design was the first-ever patented diamond cut, a true testament to the exceptional skill and vision of its creators. The Asscher cut gained popularity during the Art Deco era, with its clean lines and geometric elegance perfectly complementing the aesthetics of the time.
In 2002, the Royal Asscher Diamond Company modified the original Asscher cut, introducing the Royal Asscher cut with 74 facets, 16 more than the original design. This new variation captured the attention of diamond enthusiasts with its dazzling brilliance, reminiscent of the round brilliant cut, while still retaining the intricate angles and unique charm of the original Asscher cut. The royal asscher cut diamond has since become a sought-after gemstone for its exceptional beauty.
Defining Features - What is an Asscher Cut?
The distinctive features of the Asscher cut diamond set it apart from other diamond shapes. Its features include:
Square shape
Cropped corners
Captivating facets
Alluring visual appeal
Unique brilliance
Mesmerizing “windmill” pattern produced by the facets
The Asscher cut diamond is composed of 57 facets, or 58 if the culet is also faceted.
When it comes to light performance, Asscher cut diamonds possess the following characteristics:
Horizontal “step” facets that reflect generous flashes of light
Progressing comparatively slowly in contrast to the speedy scintillation of brilliant styles
Unique light performance combined with the captivating symmetry of the square pattern
Adds to the timeless beauty and elegance of the Asscher cut diamond.
The Allure of Asscher Cut Diamonds
The allure of Asscher cut diamonds lies in their distinct hall of mirrors effect and vintage charm. This captivating display of illumination and reflections creates a mesmerizing pattern of light and dark that sets Asscher cut diamonds apart from other diamond shapes.
The classic appeal of Asscher cut diamonds, reminiscent of the Art Deco era, makes them a favored choice for those seeking a distinctive and fashionable diamond.
Hall of Mirrors Effect
The hall of mirrors effect in Asscher cut diamonds is a result of the diamond’s distinctive facet arrangement, which produces a fascinating and sparkling effect. This captivating display of light and reflections creates an enchanting visual experience, drawing the eye and capturing the imagination.
The hall of mirrors effect is one of the defining characteristics that contributes to the unique allure and timeless beauty of Asscher cut diamonds.
Vintage Charm and Art-Deco Vibes
Asscher cut diamonds possess a classic allure that evokes the Art Deco era, with clean lines and geometric elegance that perfectly complement the aesthetics of the time. The step cut facets and square shape of these diamonds create a sense of vintage charm and art-deco vibes, making them a popular choice for vintage-inspired engagement rings and other timeless pieces of jewelry.
Asscher cut diamonds, with their unique asscher cut diamond features, are a testament to the enduring beauty and elegance of classic design, and asscher cuts only serve to enhance their diamond shape allure.
Comparing Asscher Cut Diamonds to Other Shapes
Understanding how Asscher cut diamonds compare to other popular cuts like emerald, princess, and cushion is as crucial as recognizing their unique features.
Exploring these diamond cutters’ similarities and differences can guide you in making an informed decision when selecting the ideal diamond for your memorable piece of jewelry.
Asscher vs. Emerald Cut
Both Asscher and emerald cut diamonds belong to the step-cut family, characterized by their linear facets and clean lines. However, there are some differences between the two:
Asscher cut diamonds are square with cropped corners.
Emerald cut diamonds are rectangular with a slightly larger table.
The higher crown angle and smaller table of Asscher cut diamonds give them a more profound, vibrant look.
The square emerald cut appears flatter.
Regarding light performance, Asscher cut diamonds tend to have a unique sparkle compared to emerald cut diamond styles. The step facets of Asscher cut diamonds create an alluring hall of mirrors effect, while the emerald cut reflects light in a more subtle, understated manner.
Both cuts offer a timeless elegance, but the choice between them will ultimately depend on your personal preference for shape and light performance.
Asscher vs. Princess Cut
While both Asscher and princess cut diamonds are square-shaped, they differ significantly in terms of their facet structure and overall appearance. Asscher cut diamonds are step-cut, with linear facets arranged in a captivating pattern that creates the hall of mirrors effect. In contrast, princess cut diamonds have a nonlinear facet arrangement, resulting in a brilliant sparkle that differs from the Asscher cut’s vintage allure.
Asscher cut diamonds also require a higher clarity and color grade than princess cut diamonds, as their flat table and visibility of inclusions necessitate it. However, Asscher cut diamonds are more resistant to wear and tear due to their beveled corners.
Both cuts offer a unique aesthetic, but the choice between them will depend on your preference for sparkle, clarity, and overall appearance.
Asscher vs. Cushion Cut
Asscher and cushion cut diamonds both offer a unique aesthetic, but they diverge in their shape, faceting, and overall appeal. Cushion cut diamonds feature a square or slightly rectangular shape with rounded corners and larger facets, giving them a softer, more romantic appearance compared to the clean lines and geometric elegance of Asscher cut diamonds.
When it comes to light performance, cushion cut diamonds typically have larger facets and an open culet, resulting in a different sparkle compared to the captivating hall of mirrors effect in Asscher cut diamonds.
Both cuts are stunning in their own right, but the choice between them will depend on your personal preference for shape, faceting, and overall aesthetic.
Choosing the Perfect Asscher Cut Diamond
Considering the 4Cs: clarity, color, carat weight, and recommended cut measurements is vital in choosing the perfect Asscher cut diamond. By taking these factors into account, you can ensure that your Asscher cut diamond will have the optimal light performance and beauty to make your piece of jewelry truly unforgettable.
Clarity Considerations
Given the large flat table and visibility of inclusions, opting for a high clarity grade is crucial when selecting an Asscher cut diamond. Unlike brilliant cut diamonds, which effectively conceal inclusions and blemishes, the linear facets of Asscher cut diamonds render inclusions easily visible.
If you are on a very limited budget and want to compromise over clarity, do deep research and find an SI diamond with flaws that cannot be seen at the top view, mainly over the table of the diamond. Make sure the mirror effect doesn’t make any inclusion reflect itself on other facets. If you want to have the best balance between all factors, I suggest looking for a safer option with a VS2-VS1 clarity grade.
Color Selection
Since Asscher cut diamonds tend to exhibit more color than other cuts due to lower scintillation, choosing the right color grade for your diamond is crucial. For a well balanced diamond, i recommend looking for a good H color grade. It’s the sweet spot between nearly-colorless to colorless diamonds. As long as you don’t have colorless diamonds next to it for comparison, a good H color will appear colorless to the naked eye.
Opting for an engagement ring in yellow or rose gold? You can comfortably go for a diamond in the J-I color range, as it will still blend well and offer a balanced look with the ring’s color.
Carat Weight and Size
Bear in mind that the unique cut of Asscher diamonds can affect their perceived size when considering carat weight and size. A well-cut Asscher diamond will appear notably smaller than a well-cut round brilliant of the same carat weight.
To ensure the same visual size as round brilliant diamonds, it’s recommended to ‘buy up’ to a higher carat weight for your Asscher cut diamond.
Recommended Cut Measurements
Following the recommended cut measurements ensures the optimal light performance and beauty for your Asscher cut diamond. These include:
Length-to-width ratio of 1.00 – 1.05
Girdle thickness of very thin to medium
Polish/symmetry: Excellent
Depth: 61.6-68.1
Table: 54.5-67.5
Crown angle: 11.5-15.5
Pavilion angle: 45-51
By adhering to these guidelines, you’ll guarantee that your Asscher cut diamond will have the perfect balance of sparkle, fire, and scintillation.
Setting Styles for Asscher Cut Diamonds
Several popular options are available when it comes to setting styles for Asscher cut diamonds. These include solitaire, three-stone, and halo settings, each offering a unique aesthetic and complementary design to showcase the beauty of your Asscher cut diamond.
The right setting is crucial for both the overall appearance of your jewelry and the security and longevity of your precious gemstone.
Solitaire Settings
Solitaire settings are a classic and timeless choice for Asscher cut diamonds, allowing the diamond to take center stage and showcase its unique features. Options include the classic four-prong setting, the barely-there prong setting with a whisper-thin band, and the three-stone setting.
Each solitaire setting offers a different aesthetic, but all focus on the stunning beauty and elegance of the Asscher cut diamond.
Three-Stone Settings
Three-stone settings for Asscher cut diamonds can enhance the diamond’s beauty and create a stunning overall appearance. Asscher cut diamonds can be paired with baguette flank settings, round brilliant pave settings, or lab-grown diamond side stones.
Three-stone settings offer a balanced design that highlights the unique features of the Asscher cut while adding extra sparkle from the side stones.
Halo Settings
Halo settings are a glamorous option for Asscher cut diamonds, adding extra sparkle and making the diamond appear larger. Options for halo settings include:
Classic halo
Custom setting made for your stone
Eloise’s basket
Twisted eternity
Forever halo
Each halo setting offers a different aesthetic, but all enhance the beauty and brilliance of the Asscher cut diamond, making it the focal point of your jewelry.
No matter which halo setting you choose, you can be sure that your Asscher cut
Caring for Your Asscher Cut Diamond
Proper care is essential to ensure the lasting beauty and brilliance of your Asscher cut diamond. Clean your diamond regularly with a lint-free cloth, commercial jewelry cleaning solutions, or a mild detergent with warm water. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes that could potentially scratch the surface of the stone.
Additionally, refrain from exposing your diamond to extreme temperatures or harsh chemicals to maintain its exceptional sparkle and radiance.
Conclusion - My Personal Experience
The Asscher cut diamond, with its rich history and distinctive features, offers a vintage yet timeless appeal. Unique in its geometric elegance, the Asscher cut emphasizes clarity, color, and detailed cut measurements for optimal light reflections. It sets itself apart with its hall of mirrors effect, exuding an air of sophistication and allure.
In comparison to other popular diamond shapes, the Asscher cut holds its own, offering unique light performance and aesthetics. For those who appreciate a fusion of Art Deco vibes and modern brilliance, this cut serves as an elegant choice. Careful consideration of the 4Cs—clarity, color, carat weight, and cut measurements—will ensure a choice that combines both beauty and enduring value.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Asscher diamonds more expensive?
Asscher cut diamonds are more expensive than some other diamond shapes, but round brilliant cut diamonds are typically the most expensive due to their popularity and extreme sparkle. Asscher cuts tend to be less expensive due to saving more material during the cutting process.
What is an Asscher cut diamond?
An Asscher cut diamond is a square step cut diamond with cropped corners and an X pattern with long facets from the corners to the center, giving it an endless stack of diamond squares and a hall of mirrors-like appearance.
What does Asscher cut symbolize?
The Asscher cut diamond symbolizes sophistication, elegance, timelessness and rebirth, making it perfect for those who appreciate traditional style and love the look of emerald cuts but with a square shape. It features a square-shaped stone with cropped corners and 58 facets, creating an elegant sparkle.
What are the most expensive cut of diamond?
The most expensive diamond cut is the round brilliant, due to its many facets requiring more precision work and a greater loss of rough diamond in the cutting process.
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