Choosing Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

Emerald cut engagement rings have a unique, sophisticated appearance that was once very popular. Anyone familiar with the Art Deco period of the 1920s will recognize emerald cut engagement rings as a product of that time period. The elongated, stepped, rectangular look of the cut fits in perfectly with popular decorative art from the 1920s.

The Beginning of Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

As the name suggests, the emerald cut was intended for use with emeralds. Jewelers realized that emeralds shone more brightly when cut in "steps." That means the top of the emerald is flat, but the sides are cut downward in rectangular facets. The large flat area on top highlights the stone better than other types of cuts. Jewelers soon realized gemstones other than emeralds, such as diamonds, could also benefit from the emerald cut.

Emerald cut engagement rings have little room for imperfections. Since the top of the gemstone is perfectly flat and exposed, imperfections are more obvious. Emerald cut engagement rings are elongated, so they sometimes contain accent stones in addition to the main gemstone. The elongated appearance of emerald cut engagement rings also look best on long, slender fingers. The shape of the fingers and the ring complement each other perfectly.

Styles and Settings for Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

Although emerald cut engagement rings come in a variety of designs, shapes, and sizes, they are not suitable for every kind of setting. Emerald cut engagement rings have fragile edges, and are prone to damage and breakage. The most popular (and safest according to some jewelers) setting for emerald cut engagement rings is the four- or six- prong setting.

The delicate edges of emerald cut engagement rings require sufficient protection. The setting most suitable for this job is the four- or six- prong setting. Prongs are attached to the engagement ring band, and look similar to claws as they clutch the gemstone(s) securely in place. Not only is this setting great for emerald cut engagement rings, it’s also easy to clean and allows greater visibility for the gemstone(s). A downside is that prong settings can easily get caught on clothes and other material.

Emerald cut engagement rings draw more attention to the gemstone than other setting. Since the emerald cut leaves one face of the gemstone intact, flaws or color variations are more noticeable. Before purchasing an emerald cut ring, it’s suggested that you view the gemstone before it’s placed in the ring. Most jewelers have loose gemstones on hand that can be examined before they’re set in a ring. However, you can purchase emerald cut rings that are ready to wear.

Are Emerald Cut Engagement Rings Expensive?

The emerald cut isn’t difficult to achieve. It’s typically less expensive than the traditional round cut, which makes it attractive to budget shoppers. The gemstones in emerald cut engagement rings also have a tendency to look larger and more expensive than they really are. There aren’t any cons to choosing an emerald cut ring.