An emerald cut is a rectangular-shaped diamond or gemstone with step-like facets and cropped corners. They are rectangular, with large, open, parallel facets that celebrate the clarity of the diamond and produce more subtle flashes of sparkle rather than brilliance or sparkle seen with round or cushion cut diamonds.

Emerald cut diamonds are typically colourless and not to be confused with green emeralds. You can learn more about the cut in our emerald diamond shape guide.

Emerald cut engagement rings are very sophisticated in style, and are one of the lesser-chosen diamond shapes, meaning they're more unique and unusual. Emerald cut diamonds are step cut, meaning they aren’t necessarily designed to sparkle with intense brilliance, but instead possess a ‘hall of mirrors’ illusion, with more subtle flashes of light and lustre. The shape is modern, simple and clean – perfect for minimalists.

The rectangular shape and long, parallel facets of emerald cut diamonds were first used to cut and shape green emeralds. The style was adopted to create emerald shaped diamonds, with large, open facets that show off the diamond’s clarity.

Emerald cut diamond rings are typically a little less expensive than round rings and some other diamond shapes. This is primarily because emerald cut diamonds are in lower demand, and the cutting process yields more diamonds from the rough, reducing costs.

Having said this, it is worth investing in a really good clarity grade, as inclusions are more visible than in most shapes due to the large, open facets. Look at clarity grades above VS2 if you can.

Emerald cuts are a type of step cut diamond, with large, open facets, meaning you can see much more detail within the diamond than you can with brilliant cut shapes, oval or cushion cut or round engagement rings. Because of this, small inclusions may be more visible - so aim for a clarity grade over VS2 for your emerald cut engagement ring.

If you like the simplicity of the rectangular shape and a subtle sparkle, then an emerald cut is for you. Unlike the intense sparkle of rounds, ovals, cushions or pears, emerald cut diamonds have an enhancing ‘hall of mirrors’ twinkle. With cut corners, they don't have weak or vulnerable corners, which make them a great option for people who like the square or rectangular look.

Emerald cut diamond rings symbolise clarity and strength thanks to their clear, sharp facets and large table. This makes emerald cut diamond rings the perfect choice to represent a strong commitment. The parallel, rectangular facets of an emerald cut give the shape a modern charm with a refined geometric aesthetic.