How To Find The Perfect Emerald Cut Diamond

By Frank Whalen

When you are out shopping for a diamond ring, you will be able to find many different styles and designs to choose from. A diamond cut that is becoming a popular choice for wedding rings today is the emerald cut diamond. This type of diamond has 58 facets and is rectangular shaped.

This gemstone is also referred to as a step cut since the stone's facets resemble a series of stair steps. This style of stone cutting was deemed suitable for diamonds since it is the hardest gemstone found in the earth's surface. If you like antique jewelry, you will be able to find this type of diamond at antique auctions, estate sales, and at some high end fine jewelry stores.

This diamond shape possesses less fire and brilliance as compared to the round cut diamond. It is becoming increasingly popular again, and is now chosen more often for engagement rings.

With any type of ring, you will need to select the best setting to fit that appropriate piece. Two types of mountings recommended for an emerald cut diamond are the four prong and horizontal settings. Four prong settings are beneficial since they help hold the diamond snuggly in place. In addition, the prongs used in this type of ring setting are very small and allow more of the diamond to be seen.

If you are on a tight budget, the emerald cut diamond will be the perfect choice for you since it is less expensive than other types of diamond shapes. Since this type of diamond has large and open facets, you will need to select a stone that has a better clarity and color grade so that its inherent flaws and inclusions can be concealed. A recommended clarity grade for this type of stone is a VS1, orVS2. Gemologists maintain that a G color grade as being sufficient for this type of diamond.

One major factor determining a diamond's cost is its color. A less expensive stone will have a G or H color grade and will be considered to be near colorless. No color will be able to be detected in this stone.

Since this diamond shape has been purchased by a number of well known celebrities, its sales have increased significantly throughout the United States. For a contemporary ring or necklace, you can purchase one from either a reputable online or fine diamond jewelry store. If you decide to purchase this type of diamond from an antique dealer, estate sale, or auction, make sure the piece contains a certificate of authenticity from the Gemological Institute of America.

As with any ring purchase, it may very well be important that your special lady pick out the jewelry piece herself. This diamond shape noted for its unique design and classic beauty may be the perfect choice for your significant other. When you are out shopping, take your time and select the diamond that best suits your special lady's tastes, interests and unique personality.

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