Emerald Cut
The Emerald cut is a recreation of an antique stepped cut, which was first applied to Emeralds. It is considered among the most classic of diamond shapes. The cut's appeal doesn't lie in the flashy nature of brilliant cuts, but in the simplicity of this truly classic shape. The typical Emerald cut has a rectangular shape with a length-to-width ratio of 1.62:1, with steps varying in size. The cut is known for its purity in the viewer being able to see clearly through to its base. Color and inclusions are much easier to see in Emerald cuts due to their unique facet layout and alignment. Misaligned proportions may also lead to the appearance of shadows being cast in the table. This cut is not quite as fiery or brilliant as a radiant cut, but it has a much more regal look. The beauty of an Emerald cut is the depth and clarity of the stone. It reveals a classic beauty and elegance not seen in other cuts. The stepped facet arrangement allows the eye to travel into the center of the stone and the sharp curves between its corners add a very finished and sophisticated look.
A color grade of at least H and clarity grade of at least VS2 with Very Good Polish and Good Symmetry are recommended.
Emerald cut diamonds with table percentages below 75% are more unique and deliver even greater brilliance. If the cut is shallower than 58% it will allow a greater percentage of light to leak through the pavilion, while total depth percentages greater than 69% will make the center appear darker resulting from a large amount of light refracting through and out the diamond’s pavilion.
Typical (Length-to-Width Ratio of 1.62:1)
Table               57-72%
Total Depth    58-69%
For AGS Labs take on Emerald cuts see: http://www.agslab.com/marketingpdfs/CuttingGuideforEmeralds.pdf
Variations: Square Emerald, Merit Diamond Corporation Royalcrest, Crisscut, and the Radiant cut