Asscher Diamond Guide

What is an Asscher cut diamond?

Asscher cut is the name given to a particular square, step cut diamond. Unlike the square shape princess cut diamond, Asscher diamonds feature large step cut facets, producing optical properties that appear like a ‘hall of mirrors’. With it’s signature clipped corners, Asscher diamonds are sometimes referred to as octagonal, or square emerald cuts. The squared nature of the ring means the four lines of symmetry and diagonal corner facets draw the eye to the centre of the stone, making it an enchanting and unique diamond shape.

Asscher Diamond Ring Inspiration

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Asscher Diamond Guide

Why choose an Asscher cut diamond?

If you’re searching for a unique engagement ring with modern flare, consider an Asscher cut. Asscher cut diamonds offer a unique beauty that differs from brilliant cut diamonds; their step cut facet structure makes the shape less sparkly, but offers an exquisite optical display, akin to that of a hall of mirrors.

The Asscher diamond shape is geometric, square and striking – a beautiful, sleek choice for contemporary tastes and those seeking something that differs from tradition. Asscher diamonds offer great value for money, and are amongst the most economical choice of diamond shapes due to the lack of diamond wastage during the cutting process.

What’s the best cut ratio for my Asscher diamond?

Although the ratio of your diamond is down to taste, you’ll most likely want to find an Asscher diamond that has been cut as close to perfectly square as possible. Ideally, this means a ratio of 1.00, but you won’t see much difference with ratios up to 1.05; any higher, and the shape will appear more rectangular. With a perfectly square ratio, the four lines of symmetry will result in the Asscher’s signature optical charm, but you find you prefer an elongated, rectangular shape.

How do I choose an Asscher diamond colour?

Asscher diamonds contain large facets, which you’re able to see into with ease. Without the distraction of the intense sparkle brilliant cut shapes have, there is little room for flaws to hide when it comes to Asscher diamonds, so choosing a good colour grade is important. Consider D to F colour grades for an Asscher diamond, particularly if you’re opting for a platinum setting.

If you opt for a yellow or rose gold ring, you can get away with a slightly warmer-toned diamond, so consider a H colour grade at the lowest.

Asschers are a really cool diamond shape - where the square shape of the princess cut meets the facet structure of an emerald cut. Asschers are modern and create really striking engagement rings!

Adele | Gemmologist & Design Expert
 

How do I choose the clarity of an Asscher diamond?

As Asscher diamonds contain large, open facets that viewers can see right into, prioritising a higher clarity grade than you might for other shapes is important. Consider Asscher diamonds with the clarity grade between SI1 and VS2 and if your budget allows, maybe even up to VS1. You shouldn’t find the need to go as high as FL (flawless), or VVS1, which come with the kind of price tags that reflect their rarity, but do make sure that any inclusions within the stone are not visible to the naked eye, or that they are positioned where they can be hidden by the ring’s claws.

How much does an Asscher diamond cost?

You should find your personal budget will stretch to a larger carat weight with an Asscher cut than, say, with a round diamond. This is because Asscher diamonds are the most similar shape to that of a diamond crystal in its rough form, so very little diamond is wasted during the cutting process. In fact, Asscher diamonds are amongst the most economical diamond shapes - however, you may decide to opt for a higher clarity grade than with other shapes due to their large open facets, which would increase the price of your diamond slightly.

How many facets does an Asscher cut diamond have?

The Asscher cut diamond contains 58 facets, with a cropped corner, square shape table facet, and rectangular pavilion facets. Similar to an emerald cut, an Asscher diamond’s facets are large, open and made up of geometric, rectangular shapes that give the Asscher diamond its signature ‘hall of mirrors’, prismatic effect.

How do I choose the best Asscher cut diamond?

  • For a square Asscher diamond, choose a ratio as close to 1.00 as possible. Ratios up to 1.05 should still appear perfectly square

  • Ideally, choose a colour grade between D and F

  • Prioritise the clarity grade more than you might with other shapes; consider an Asscher diamond graded SI1 at the lowest, ideally VS2 and VS1. Be aware that high clarity grades are incredibly rare; the higher the clarity, the higher the price. Go as low as you can on the clarity grade whilst ensuring any flaws are not noticeable to the naked eye, for the best value Asscher diamond.

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