Purchase any Engagement Ring and receive a $250 Gift Card for your Wedding Band. Ends soon.

REAL History: The Elizabeth Taylor Diamond (AKA The Krupp)

Before actor Richard Burton slipped the infamous 33.19ct onto Elizabeth Taylor’s hand, this emerald cut stunner was known as the Krupp Diamond. Vera Krupp was a German actress, baroness, and Las Vegas rancher, born in 1909. During her life, she married four times, divorced a baron for her childhood sweetheart, and wore a 33ct diamond along with her leather chaps as she worked land alongside cowboys.

On April 10, 1959, thieves raided Vera’s ranch and made off with the jewel. The ring was whisked across the country, taken apart, and sold in pieces on the black market. The FBI was hot on the trail, tracing whispers from Utah to Louisiana, even down to Florida. Ultimately, they found the diamond in the lining of a coat pocket in New Jersey! In fact, they even found the side stones. So, Vera rebuilt her beautiful ring!

After Vera’s passing, Richard Burton purchased the diamond, giving it to his wife, actress Elizabeth Taylor. The diamond was in good company. Liz was also quite the dynamo, marrying eight times – twice to Burton himself – also being awarded a damehood by the Queen and countless Hollywood accolades for her illustrious acting career.

FBI Krupp Diamond Map

I love the idea of this jewel empowering two powerful, self-confident women! Jewelry has a unique ability to make people feel love, appreciation, and power. I think this is why it makes such a great achievement gift, in addition to representing engagement. It makes me want to design a big ring for myself! What about you?

Want your very own ice skating rink?

I’d love to help you design one! Reach out to me, Corinne, at care@doamore.com, drop me a note here, or give me a call! I would love to help you find the perfect powerful center stone to make your dreams come true! In the meantime, check out this stunning 5.02ct F/VS1 Emerald cut lab diamond – available as of writing for $23,630. Pairing this stone with the Tapered Baguette Ring is a classic Liz Taylor look.

Do Amore Tapered Baguette with 5ct Emerald Cut

Emerald Cut Issues: 4 Common Mistakes to Avoid

Considering a emerald cut? Great choice! Emerald cuts are beautiful stones that exude glamour and elegance. However, because GIA does not grade emerald cuts for cut quality, and emeralds show more imperfections than others, there’s definitely a lot to learn about them before you buy. Let’s talk about some common mistakes people make when buying an emerald!

What is a emerald cut?

An emerald cut diamond is a rectangular diamond with long, mirror-like facets. It is a traditional cut with major historic value. There are numerous famous emeralds, including those that adorned the fingers of Grace Kelly and Elizabeth Taylor, as well Amal Clooney, JLo, and perennial favorite Victoria Beckham.

Why do celebrities like emerald cut?

Because Emerald cut diamonds require higher color and higher clarity in order to face up white and eye clean, choosing an emerald is a way to showcase value. In this respect, high net-worth individuals enjoy purchasing emeralds because they flaunt wealth. However, you don’t need a D color flawless emerald shape like them, read on for tips on how to score a gorgeous emerald without the celebrity price.

Custom emerald cut engagement ring with cluster sides in white gold on hand

Don’t Make these Emerald Cut Mistakes!

1. Not Knowing Emerald Cut Quality

Do emerald cut rings sparkle?

Not really, it’s more of a shine than a sparkle. Emeralds are not meant to be disco balls like other shapes. Instead, they are meant to show an understated mirror-like elegance. In fact, an emerald’s shine is called “hall of mirrors”! So, if “sparkle” is your biggest goal, try radiant instead. But if you love a gorgeous, high-end sheen, an emerald stone is for you.

What is the perfect emerald cut diamond?

The perfect emerald cut diamond is white, eye clean, and has a beautiful “hall of mirrors”. So, what is this hall of mirrors you keep hearing about? It is the light and dark bands on either side of an emerald’s table facet. These are important because in order for an emerald to have a shine, the stone needs to have some contrast to shimmer back and forth from. Otherwise, a stone can end up looking “dead”. Likewise, if the stone has too much darkness (often in the form of a “black box”) it can take away from beauty. So, you want to look for a hall of mirrors, not a box of them. Check it out:

Emerald cut diamond quality side by side including dead stones hall of mirrors and black boxes

2. Not Taking Clarity Seriously

Emeralds are “step” cut stones, meaning they have rectangular and trapezoid shaped facets. Step cut stones (which also include asscher cuts) show inclusions more easily than “brilliant” cut diamonds (every other shape except emerald and asscher). As a result, couples choosing emerald cuts need to select a higher clarity than they otherwise would need to get an eye clean gem. So, which clarity should you choose? Let’s explore:

What is VS VVS?

VS and VVS are higher end clarity ratings in the diamond clarity scale which starts at Flawless and ends in Included. Both VVS and VS tiers include two grades each: VVS1/VVS2 and VS1/VS2. VVS more flawless than VS, and 1 is more flawless than 2. So, the order goes VVS1, VVS2, VS1, VS2. It’s a lot of acronyms that can look a little daunting, but here’s a secret: they literally just mean “very slightly” and “very very slightly”. LOL! So, when all the letters get you down, don’t sweat it. You’ll know that “very very slightly” means there’s basically no inclusions in the stone.

Now, the distinction between these two tiers is very important in emerald cuts, as they typically need to be a minimum of VS1 in order to be eye clean. So, you will need to remember to set your filter to VS1+ (no VS2s allowed!). Then, when looking through stones, make sure that any VS1 you consider is actually eye clean (or email me to double check it!). Fortunately, VVS1 and VVS2 are almost always eye clean (only large stones could ever show an eye visible inclusion at this level).

Lab Diamond Couples: Make sure to be on the lookout for “crystal strain” in your emerald – it’s specifically noticeable in these cuts. Crystal strain is caused by the stone being grown too quickly, and looks like a “streaky” window. Not pretty, and unfortunately, not included in a stone’s certification (it can even happen in VVS stones). This only happens in lab stones. Read more here.

Emerald cut diamond clarity quality examples including VVS vs VS and crystal strain

Is color or clarity more important in an emerald cut diamond?

Clarity is more important, because inclusions can be seen easily in emerald shapes, and color can be hidden by gold. Because emeralds have that iconic sheen, and not inclusion-hiding sparkle, clarity has to be your first order of business. VS1+ or VVS to be sure! However – color comes in second only because near colorless shades like H and I can be masked by setting the gem in yellow or rose gold. If setting in a white metal like white gold, palladium, or platinum, you’ll still need G+ color to look white-white.

3. Not Taking Color Seriously Enough

Do emerald cuts show color?

Yes, emerald cut diamonds show more color than other shapes. This is because emeralds do not have that dazzling sparkle to detract from color! In fact, the Emerald shape was originally designed to actually enhance color in colored gems like….emeralds. And, those long facets do the same for diamonds. As a result, while most shapes allow for H+ color to look “white”, emeralds really need G+ in most sizes (unless set in yellow or rose gold).

Pro tip: If you are prioritizing carat weight over color, choosing an emerald with significant contrast will somewhat detract from color. So, choosing a dramatic emerald with lots of contrast (but no black boxes!) can help. 

Lab Diamond Bonus: Looking for white gold, but don’t want a warm center stone? Make sure to check out “blue nuance” diamonds in HIJ colors. Crisp icy blue instead of warm – and it looks gorgeous in white metals. Blue nuance is only available in lab created diamonds. Read more here.

Emerald cut diamond color quality examples including D to J scale and blue nuance

4. Not Comparing Emerald Cut vs Other Cuts

Does an emerald cut diamond look bigger?

Yes, emerald shaped diamonds tend to look a bit larger than other shapes due to their long length and nice spread. Unless Princess cuts and cushions, which carry their weight in their depth, emerald cuts carry their weight in their diameters. You can make sure you’re getting a good spread on your emerald by ensuring its depth is between 60-67% (just don’t give up that hall of mirrors contrast by choosing too shallow of a stone)! You can read more about the industry’s general guidelines for emeralds here.

Is emerald cut more expensive?

Emerald cuts are often more expensive than other diamonds of the same size because you need to choose a higher color and clarity to look white and eye clean. However, if all other qualities are equal (for example, a G/VVS2 Emerald vs a G/VVS2 Round) the emerald will be less expensive. This is because emeralds do not waste as much of the rough gem crystal as round cuts do, and they are less in demand as rounds. So, if you’ve decided to go G/VVS already, an emerald can save you money! However, if you’re on the fence, definitely compare mid-range rounds against high-end emeralds to check value. Or email me to send you a selection within your budget!

Is Emerald cut the same as baguette?

No – emeralds and baguettes are cousins. A baguette cut is even longer and skinnier than an emerald, and has pointed corners. It also has a few less facets. Traditionally, baguette cut diamonds are used as side or accent stones, whereas emeralds are center stones. However, we have been seeing a few avant garde designers take baguettes on for sleek, modern center stones!

What is the difference between emerald cut and radiant cut?

Emeralds and radiants have the same outline, but emeralds are step cut, whereas radiants are brilliant cut. This means that emeralds showcase that gorgeous sheen, whereas radiants show true “sparkle”. Radiants can show a “crushed ice” sparkle or a “chunky” brilliant sparkle. Both shapes are rectangular with clipped corners. So, while emeralds are an understated elegance, radiants show extreme bling. They’re both beautiful in their own right! Which do you prefer?

Round vs Emerald cut vs Princess cut diamonds on a finger

Can you help me find the best Emerald diamond?

Yes! I’d love to send you a custom curated selection of gorgeous emerald diamonds for you to choose from. Just send me a note here, or email me at care@doamore.com! I can walk you through emerald hall of mirrors, color, and clarity benefits – and keep you on budget. We specialize in diamonds with max bang for your buck!

3 carat diamond ring: 4 steps to get max bang for your buck

So you want major bling for your ring? I got you. When most people think about a huge diamond, a 3 carat diamond ring is what they’re imagining! This kind of carat weight packs a huge punch, so it’s a great size to go for when you’re looking for impact. However, did you know there’s ways to make a 3 carat diamond ring look even bigger and better? Read on!

Is a 3 carat diamond big?

Yes! The average diamond ring is between 1-2 carats, making a 3 carat diamond a big look! However, not all 3 carat stones “look” 3 carats. That’s because a “carat” is a weight measurement, not a diameter size. That also means that you can find a 3 carat stone that looks closer to 3.25 or even 3.50ct! It’s all in where the diamond carries its weight – whether that be in its bottom, or across its width. I’ll show you how to look for this below!

3 carat round diamond in a ring box

How much is a 3 carat diamond?

At the time of writing, a white, eye clean, natural 3 carat diamond begins around $30,000, and lab diamonds of a similar quality begin around $7,500! Diamonds vary greatly in price depending upon their specific 4Cs (color, cut, clarity, and carat weight) as well as diamond origin (lab or natural)! Even small differences can make a pretty significant difference in price. You can read more about how to get the best bang for your buck, while getting a beautiful white, eye clean diamond here! Once you choose shape, origin, and a range of color, clarity – shoot us an email at care@doamore.com. We’re always happy to run a custom search for you for the best values out there!

Pro tip: Also, you can see some of our recommended natural diamonds here and recommended lab diamonds here (these diamonds have been selected based on maximizing beauty and bang for your buck!).

2.25ct vs 3 carat diamond ring on finger

2.25ct vs 3 carat diamond ring

3 carat diamond ring max bang for your buck

1. Shape

One way to make your 3 carat look even bigger is to choose an elongated fancy shape. Long shapes such as ovals, emeralds, radiants, and marquise look larger than their more rounded cousins. This is because their length gives the appearance of a larger surface area! So, if you’re going for max bang for your buck, choosing an elongated shape can get you an even bigger look!

2. Measurements

Remember, “carat weight” is a weight measurement – so in order to get max bang for your buck, always look at measurements. It may be that you can get a great value by choosing a 2.9-2.99 carat that measures just as large as a 3.00-3.10ct! So, when looking for the best 3 carat diamond ring, set your filters just a hair below 3 carats, and then compare measurements. Check it out:

3 carat diamond measurement differences comparison

3. Go “White, Eye Clean” over Colorless, VVS

You don’t need a completely colorless, VVS diamond to get a big fancy look. To get the max bang for your buck, choose “white, eye clean” instead of falling for the “colorless” thing. G colored diamonds will look colorless face up! And, with the exception of emerald and asscher cuts (that mostly need to be VVS), VS diamonds are just as eye clean as Flawless and VVS stones. Don’t waste money on things you can’t see! Instead, choose G (and sometimes even H!) color and VS clarity, and then put that extra money towards more carats!

4. Cut Quality (Sparkle)

Well cut, sparkly diamonds ALWAYS look bigger than less sparkly diamonds. This is because “dead” stones without much sparkle do not really “pop” from the finger. So, in addition to looking for big measurements, always make sure to learn how to get the most sparkle from your stone too. Every shape has unique features to look for. Check out our round guide here, our oval guide here, and guidelines for emerald cuts here!

Pro Tip: EVERY shape needs even contrast and brilliance. Contrast is the dark background white and rainbow sparkle pops from! So, always look for an even smattering of dark/light in your gem to make sure it’ll sparkle like crazy!

Washed out pear cut vs sparkly pear diamond side by side

Top 3 most popular 3 carat diamond rings

Most Popular: Round 3 carat diamond ring

Round cut diamonds are the most popular shape, and have the most sparkle. So, it’s an easy, classic choice for a beautiful 3 carat diamond ring! Rounds are the most technically challenging cut to get “perfect” as they need very specific angles to maximize sparkle. You can learn how to master those angles and get the best Round 3 carat here.

How much is a 3ct round cut diamond ring?

At the time of writing, white, eye clean, natural 3 carat round diamonds begin around $38,000, and lab diamonds of a similar quality begin around $8,200. Then, simply pick your favorite setting, such as our blingy Mekelle for $1,580 in any color gold!

3 carat round diamond ring

Second Most Popular: Oval 3 carat diamond ring

3 carat ovals look even bigger than their round cousins! That is because an oval’s nice long length gives it a larger appearance. Learn how to choose the best oval (and avoid dark bowties) here!

How much is a 3ct oval diamond ring?

At the time of writing, white, eye clean, natural 3 carat oval diamonds begin around $34,000, and lab diamonds of a similar quality begin around $10,000. Choose a beautiful setting, such as our dainty Diana ($880 in any color gold)!

3 carat oval diamond in pave setting on hand

Third Most Popular: Emerald 3 carat diamond ring

Huge emerald cut rocks are celebrity favorites! Think Elizabeth Taylor, Melania Trump, and Paris Hilton! Shining and elegant, large emerald cut diamond rings stand for high end class. That is because emerald cut diamonds require a higher color (G+) and clarity (VS1+) than other cuts to look “white and eye clean”.

How much is a 3ct emerald cut diamond ring?

At the time of writing, white, eye clean, natural 3 carat emerald cut diamonds begin around $38,000, and lab diamonds of a similar quality begin around $11,000. Choose a beautiful setting, such as our classic Asha ($450 in any color gold)!

3 carat diamond ring in emerald cut on hand

Can you help me get the most bang for my buck?

Yes! We specialize in making sure you get the biggest, best diamond for your money. You can checkout our blog dedicated to it here. So, when looking for the best 3 carat diamond ring, you’ve come to the right place. Email us here, or drop us a line here, and we’ll set out on the hunt for you!

Art Deco Engagement Rings: 4 MUST KNOW Style Points

Have you found that you tend to drift towards Art Deco engagement rings? Wondering how to nail this look, but in your own way? We got you. Read on to learn what the essential style points are of this classic look!

What are Art Deco engagement rings?

Art Deco engagement rings have geometric patterns and often feature colored gems like sapphire, ruby, or emerald in addition to diamonds. Shapes are BIG in Art Deco. So, you’ll often see large rectangular center stones, circular or square halos, or uniquely-shaped side stones. Descriptions often used for Art Deco jewelry include bold, stately, elegant, and even architectural. Most Art Deco jewelry is done in white gold or platinum.

Example of halo and emerald cut art deco engagement rings

Why is Art Deco popular?

Art Deco engagement rings are popular because they make a big impression, both in personality as well as size! This is because the style’s lines and shapes are instant classics. Everyone loves a large Emerald cut, sapphire paired with diamond, and cool shining platinum. Because these looks never go out of style, they lend a sense of timeless elegance to any outfit or occasion.

When was Art Deco jewelry popular?

Art Deco jewelry first gained popularity in the 1920s and 1930s. This was during the jazz and flapper period! Think old school glam, like The Great Gatsby and Chicago. And, as you can see, the jewelry of the age has endured. Some of the most popular engagement ring designs of today are actually Art Deco!

Are Art Deco engagement rings still popular today?

Yes! Art Deco engagement rings are wildly popular today thanks to a resurgence of interest in diamond halos and gemstone engagement rings. Do Amore offers several different halo designs, as well as a great selection of emerald and asscher cut diamonds, as well as some beautiful sapphire! So, if you are looking for a Deco engagement ring, you are in luck.

 

What are the main characteristics of Art Deco engagement rings?

1. Circles, Rectangles, Triangles, oh my!

One of the biggest design elements of an Art Deco Engagement ring is its shape. Whether it is a large center stone, or an architecturally-inspired setting, Deco style rings feature bold shapes. Some rings feature different shapes in contrast, like a round center in a cushion halo. Other rings highlight large Emerald cut center stones stones mirrored with vertical and horizontal lines. One design element unique to Deco rings is using small square gemstones set into halos instead of tiny rounds! Another common theme is to add triangular or trapezoidal side stones to a round or square center, adding interest and flair to the piece.

Round Square and Rectangular Art Deco Engagement Rings

2. Consider a Pop of Color

Going with the big and bold theme, Art Deco Engagement rings often feature colored gemstones in addition to diamond. Sometimes these gems are the center stone, sometimes they are placed in a bold colored halo, and other times they act as accent side stones. Popular colored center stones in Deco rings include Sapphire, Aquamarine, and Emerald. Colored bezels are typically made from Sapphire or Ruby. On the other hand, you’ll often find Emerald or Blue Sapphire accent pops.

3. Go Big or Go Home

One enduring design factor in Deco is SIZE. Ladies in the 20s were celebrating their independence and wanted to show off their style and worth. So, the Deco period was flashy! As a result, many Art Deco engagement rings are centered around huge stones. Luckily, you can do this with any budget! Aquamarine or Lab-Created Sapphire or Ruby are very affordable, even in large sizes. Don’t want a big rock, but still want to rock the look? Another way to accomplish a flashy Deco look is to choose a big geometric setting for a smaller stone, like a halo in round, cushion, or even square.

Did you know? A large portion of authentic from-the-20s Deco rings are man-made Sapphire. It’s true! Lab-created gemstones have been around for centuries

4. Make it Platinum, baby

Art Deco happened in the 1920s and 30s, when platinum was all the rage. In fact, white gold was invented during this time as a less expensive platinum substitute for those who could not afford the rare metal. While a few Deco pieces are kicking around in yellow gold, the majority of Art Deco jewelry is platinum or white gold. This preference shift began around 1900, at the end of the Victorian period which loved yellow and rose. Wanting something fresh and new after a 70-year trend, Edwardian and Art Deco fashionistas embraced ice-cool platinum.

 

What is the difference between Art Deco and Art Nouveau jewelry?

Art Deco jewelry is very geometric and bold, whereas Art Nouveau features flowing, nature-inspired motifs. As in any shift in style, there are crossover pieces. But, in large part, Art Deco jewelry is meant to make a statement. Art Nouveau, on the other hand, is more sensual and flowery. Art Nouveau jewelry often includes floral patterns, flowing colored enamel, and delicate metalwork. Deco, as you know, is more brash and linear.

Example of Art Deco Engagement ring on left and Art Nouveau engagement ring on right

(Left) Art Deco vs Art Nouveau engagement rings (Right)

Is Great Gatsby Art Deco?

The Great Gatsby, and the fabulous jewels it constantly inspires, are classic examples of Art Deco Jewelry. Note the cushion halo around Daisy’s round diamond engagement ring, and all the straight lines and circular motifs in her headband? Tiffany’s collection, made specifically for Baz Luhrmann’s 2013 hit, also features intricate geometric colored stone rings and necklaces.

Examples of Deco Jewelry worn during the movie The Great Gatsby
Three Tiffany Art Deco Rings

Credit: Tiffany & Co.

How much is an Art Deco engagement ring?

We can design great Art Deco engagement rings starting at $809! Here are a few other ideas:

  • Sophie with a 6.5mm Round Diamond
  • Katherine with a 10x8mm Emerald cut Lab Blue Sapphire or Aquamarine
  • Double halo Elsa with an inner Ruby halo and a low-color Old European center
  • Charu with an 9mm Asscher cut Moissanite
  • Victoria with Emerald Accent pops and  center and a low-color Old Miner center

Or, you can go completely custom. We’ve done everything from simple hexagonal bezels to intricate diamond snowflake halos!

Examples of Simple and Complex Custom Art Deco Engagement Rings

Are old diamonds worth more?

No, the value of a diamond comes from its 4cs – color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. Generally speaking, an old cut diamond such as an old European, old Miner, Rose, or “Transitional” cut will not be any more expensive than a modern Round brilliant. In fact, they are often less due to lower current demand. That said, old cut diamonds have a particular appeal to them (I love old cut diamonds). They can be both difficult to originally source and difficult to replace! But, we love them all and have made some gorgeous rings with old diamonds.

Bonus! Using an old diamond is super sustainable – no new mining needs to take place to build your ring when you choose an old diamond!

Examples of Old Euro and Transitional Cut Diamonds

Old Miner (left); Old Euro (middle); Modern brilliant (right)

Old Diamonds Can Save You Money

Another reason to choose an old cut diamond is that many have warmer body colors (think J, K, L…even S, T, U)! This is because back when they were originally faceted, bright white LED lights just weren’t around. Instead, people gazed at their diamonds by warm candlelight. So, warmer toned diamonds were just as desirable! What’s great about that for you is these lower colored stones are much less expensive. And not only will choosing an old cut diamond get you a great deal, you’ll also get your pop of Art Deco color too!

Art Deco Halo Ring With Emeralds and Diamonds

How do I buy an Art Deco engagement ring?

We have Art Deco engagement rings already designed – or you can design your own Deco ring! Choosing a current design and modifying it to your liking is the quickest, most cost-effective method. To do this, choose a Cushion halo with your choice of Round center stone like our Sophie, or a vintage linear setting with a huge emerald cut, like our Katherine! You can choose an icy white diamond or moissanite, or pop in some color with a Sapphire, Aquamarine, or Emerald center stone. If custom design is more your thing, we’d be happy to make the Art Deco ring of your dreams! Simply email us photos, links, or a sketch to care@doamore.com for a prompt quote. You can also drop us a note here, too!

All You Need to Know About Emerald Cut Engagement Rings (Infographic)

Emerald cut diamonds are among the most unique in the world. Likewise, an emerald cut engagement ring just embodies that classic, vintage look.

If you’re interested in quickly learning about emerald cut stones, we made an infographic for that. We also wrote a more-in-depth post, so read that if you’d like more information.

Or better yet, shoot us a message. We’re always happy to chat about emerald cut engagement rings.

Enjoy!

6 Reasons Emerald Cut Engagement Rings Are Awesome

emerald cut engagement rings infographic

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Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

Emerald Cut Engagement Rings – Read Before Buying

Okay, get this:

Only 3% of the diamonds in the world are emerald cut. They’re among the most unique available. Yet 15% of our sales come from them. Why? We have a special knowledge of emerald cut engagement rings.

They are gorgeous. Distinct. They have an unmatched vintage look. We love matching people with the perfect emerald cut ring. If you are looking for emerald cut engagement rings, make sure to read through this first.

Here are some tips:

1. Emerald Cut Engagement Rings Look Larger

Your average 1 carat emerald cut diamond has 5% greater surface area than a 1 carat round cut diamond. All else the same, the top surface of an emerald cut diamond will look larger.

So, what does this mean?

This means that you can get a diamond that looks a little larger for a lower price (to see what I mean by lower price, keep reading).

2. They Make Fingers Look More Slender

Emerald cut diamonds are elongated. This means emerald cut engagement rings give the illusion of longer and more slender fingers.

Maybe this is a good thing for you. Maybe it’s not. But slender fingers do give the illusion of making you a better piano player. So there’s that.

3. The Length to Width Ratio is Very Important

All emerald diamonds in our conflict free diamond search engine have the length and width listed.  The ratio is simply the length divided by the width. This number will help you see how narrow or wide the diamond is.

See, the larger the length to width ration is, the longer and skinnier the diamond will be. Though people usually prefer a diamond between 1.2 to 1.8, I think an emerald diamond should have a minimum ratio of 1.3 and a maximum of 1.6.

Emerald diamond length to width ratio

If I was buying an emerald cut engagement ring, I would choose an emerald diamond with a length to width ratio of 1.33-1.50.

4. Emerald Diamonds are Less Expensive!

Well, here’s a popular benefit:

Emerald cut engagement rings are less expensive. It’s true that they are rarer than round or princess-cut diamonds. But they’re also in less demand.

You can expect to spend 15-25% less on an emerald cut engagement ring than you would on a round engagement ring.

5. Warning: Emerald Diamonds Reveal Clarity

Something you might want to thing about:

You can see inclusions in an emerald cut engagement ring more clearly than you would in a round diamond. Make sure your jeweler will do a thorough visual inspection of the stone before you purchase it. Since you’ll save about 15-25% on your emerald cut engagement ring, consider putting that money towards upgrading your clarity level. I strongly encourage you to stay away from SI2 emerald diamonds. The inclusions will be seen with the naked eye.

Comparing clarity ratings for emerald diamonds

Comparing the Clarity of 4 GIA Certified Emerald Cut Diamonds

6. Warning: Emerald Diamonds Reveal Color

It’s easier to tell the color of emerald cut diamonds than other cuts.

Let’s talk color grades:

All colorless diamonds in the D-F range would be the same color – regardless of cut. However, a slightly warmer diamond would reveal color more easily on an emerald cut diamond. (These would be low-color diamonds in the H-K range)

If you don’t want your emerald cut engagement ring to show any warmth (yellowness), upgrade a color grade above what you would have purchased with a round diamond.

Comparison of emerald cut diamonds color

Comparing the Color of 6 GIA Certified Emerald Cut Diamonds

7. Emerald Cut Engagement Rings are not Very Sparkly

Let me rephrase that:

Emerald cut engagement rings just have a different sparkle to them. It’s more subtle.

An emerald diamond is cut differently than other diamonds. Most diamonds are brilliant cut, which creates sparkle and brilliance. Emerald diamonds are step cut. This creates flashes of light known as the hall of mirrors effect. It’s a beautiful illusion that creates broad flashes of white light to contrast the dark planes within each step. Despite being a step cut diamond, the corner edges of a well cut emerald diamond should still have sparkle.

Emerald cut engagement rings will have broad flashes of light instead of sparkle

Well cut emerald diamonds have broad flashes of light in the middle and sparkle on the edges.

8. Warning: Emerald diamonds are not graded by the GIA for cut.

It’s important that your jeweler understands the optimum emerald diamond specs. The below table should help you narrow down your choices. But, never buy an emerald diamond based on the certificate only.

Find someone that can perform a visual inspection before you purchase the stone. Make sure their understanding goes beyond just numbers on a certificate.

The Optimum Table & Depth for Emerald Diamonds

Ideal/Excellent CutVery Good Cut
Table (%)61 – 6957.5 – 60.9  or  69.1 – 72
Depth (%)60 – 67.058.5 – 59.9 or 67.1-69.5

9. You Can Get an Emerald Cut Moissanite or Emerald Cut Sapphire Engagement Rings

The term emerald cut is used actually used to describe the unique shape, which was developed for emerald gemstones (the green stone). Emerald cut moissanite and emerald cut sapphire are much more affordable than emerald cut diamonds.

My post on affordable engagement rings covers these options in more detail. Contact us if you want to discuss these options.

Closing Words Regarding Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

Buying online is, of course, totally fine. But pay extra attention when you’re shopping for emerald cut diamonds. Make sure your online jeweler truly understands the specifications that make a beautiful emerald cut engagement ring.

Also, always ask for a detailed picture like below.

This will allow you to get a true understanding of the stone quality. If you’re considering Do Amore for your emerald cut engagement ring, shoot us a message. We can assist you in finding a beautiful emerald diamond that’s within your budget! Since I know a lot about emerald cut engagement rings, feel free to ask for me personally (my name is Krish).

CONTACT US NOW>

An emerald diamond close up

Never buy Emerald Cut Engagement Rings without seeing a close-up photo of the diamond