Emerald Cut Diamonds

The emerald cut diamonds is named for the shape that the green emerald was historically most cut.  The reason was that emeralds naturally have inclusions that made it difficult to cut in the traditional brilliant cut. The long step cut made the green emerald easier to cut.  The cut was then used in other gemstones and diamonds.  The typical 1 carat emerald cut diamond has 57-58 facets with 25 on the crown, 25 on the pavilion and 8 on the girdle.  Most of the modern shapes today do not have a standard for girdle facets.  The emerald cut diamonds is sometimes called a step cut because the 3 rows of top steps and 3 rows of bottom steps that appears in the diamond's shape.  The placement of these facets can make it easier to see the inclusions inside the diamond.  Therefore, it is recommended to look for SI1 clarity to keep from seeing inclusions as easily.