Choosing a diamond ring, whether as a symbol of your eternal love or a special treat for yourself, is no small feat.
One cut that has intrigued and captivated many is the Asscher cut diamond. With its unique facets and alluring charm, there’s no denying its timeless appeal.
This blog post will serve as your comprehensive guide to understanding and buying Asscher cut diamond rings, from exploring their rich history to making an informed purchase.
Let us take you on a journey through the world of diamonds, ensuring that you not only find a ring but a masterpiece that speaks to your heart.
History and Origin of Asscher Cut Diamonds
The Asscher cut diamond, known for its distinctive shape and brilliant sparkle, holds a rich history that dates back to the early 20th century.
It was first introduced by the Asscher Brothers of Holland in 1902, renowned diamond cutters who held a prominent position in the diamond industry at that time.
The Asscher cut, named after its creators, represented a breakthrough in diamond cutting technology. It was recognized as the first patented diamond cut in the world, a testament to its innovation and distinctiveness.
Over the years, the Asscher cut has evolved, adapting to the changing preferences and technological advancements in the diamond industry. The original Asscher cut, also known as the “old Asscher cut,” featured 58 facets and a small table (the top, flat surface of the diamond).
However, in 2001, to celebrate the Asscher Diamond Company’s centennial, the cut was revised to include more facets, creating even more brilliance and fire. This enhanced version is now referred to as the “Royal Asscher cut.”
Unique Characteristics of Asscher Cut Diamonds
Asscher cut diamonds are noted for their distinctive square shape with deeply trimmed corners that give them an almost octagonal appearance.
This cut creates a unique balance between a square and a circle that offers a softer and more refined visual appeal. Further, the facet pattern of Asscher cut diamonds is what truly sets them apart. These diamonds typically have 58 facets, similar to a round brilliant cut, but arranged in a concentric square pattern that creates an enchanting ‘Hall of Mirrors’ effect.
This mesmerizing ‘Hall of Mirrors’ effect is a result of the interplay between light and the facets of the diamond.
The step-style facets and high crown of an Asscher cut diamond work together to produce an illusion of depth, drawing one’s gaze into the center of the diamond. It’s a captivating feature that can be likened to a never-ending cascade of reflective mirrors, giving the Asscher cut its iconic vintage charm.
The Timeless Appeal of Asscher Cut Diamonds
Asscher cut diamonds have a timeless appeal that transcends trends and fads. This enduring allure is due in large part to their unique shape and cut, which hearkens back to an era of elegance and sophistication – the vintage and Art Deco periods.
It’s no surprise that these designs continue to captivate modern-day jewelry enthusiasts, given their intriguing blend of geometrical precision and subtle glamor.
Several prominent figures, both historical and contemporary, have chosen Asscher cut diamonds. This includes celebrities like Jessica Alba and Zooey Deschanel, who sport beautiful Asscher cut engagement rings.
The visibility of these rings in popular culture has undoubtedly contributed to the rising demand for Asscher cut diamonds.
Selecting the Perfect Asscher Cut Diamond: 3 Key Considerations
When choosing an Asscher cut diamond, it’s essential to consider the ‘Four Cs‘: Cut, Clarity, Color, and Carat. These factors significantly influence a diamond’s quality and value.
1) The 4 C's
- The Cut refers to how well the diamond has been cut from its raw form. An ideal cut will showcase maximum fire and brilliance, giving the diamond its magical sparkle.
- Clarity is crucial as this cut’s large, open facets can make inclusions and blemishes more noticeable.
- Then there’s the color, which can also be more visible due to the Asscher cut’s design. Ideal Asscher diamonds should have a higher color grade to avoid any yellow tinge.
- The Carat, or the weight of the diamond, is another critical consideration. It affects the size of the diamond and, subsequently, its appearance on the ring.
2) Proportions and Symmetry
Proportions and symmetry are another aspect of the Asscher cut that you shouldn’t overlook. Perfect symmetry is key to achieving the mesmerizing reflections and depth that make this cut famous.
Proportions
The proportions of an Asscher cut diamond refer to the relationship between its various measurements, such as the length, width, and depth. It is important to note that there is no universally agreed-upon set of proportions for Asscher cut diamonds, unlike round brilliant diamonds that have specific ideal proportions. However, there are general guidelines to consider.
A well-proportioned Asscher cut diamond will have a balanced appearance, with the length and width ratio typically falling between 1.00 to 1.05. This means that the diamond should be close to a perfect square, with minimal deviation in its dimensions.
A square-shaped Asscher cut diamond is generally more desirable as it emphasizes the unique characteristics of this cut.
Symmetry
Symmetry is equally important in an Asscher cut diamond. It refers to how well the facets and angles of the diamond align and interact with each other.
A symmetrical Asscher cut diamond will have all its facets in perfect alignment, creating a harmonious and balanced appearance. Any deviations in symmetry can affect the diamond’s brilliance and overall visual appeal.
When considering the proportions and symmetry of an Asscher cut diamond, it is advisable to consult with a reputable jeweler or a gemologist. They can provide expert guidance and help you select a diamond that showcases the best qualities of the Asscher cut while meeting your personal preferences and budget.
To assess the symmetry of an Asscher cut diamond, a jeweler will view it under a magnification device, such as a loupe or a microscope. They will look for any variations in the shape and alignment of the facets and ensure that the corners of the diamond are correctly trimmed and that the facets on each side of the diamond are evenly shaped and positioned.
It is worth noting that while perfect symmetry is desirable, some slight variations may be acceptable as long as they do not compromise the overall beauty of the diamond.
Ultimately, personal preference plays a role in determining the level of symmetry that you find visually pleasing.
Paying attention to the proportions and symmetry of an Asscher cut diamond is essential for ensuring its captivating beauty.
3) Setting
The setting of an Asscher cut diamond ring can greatly enhance its overall appearance and showcase its unique features.
Here are a few that particularly complement the square shape and mesmerizing facets of an Asscher cut diamond:
- Prong Setting: The prong setting is a classic choice for Asscher cut diamonds. It consists of metal claws or prongs that hold the diamond securely in place while allowing maximum light to enter and reflect off the diamond’s facets. This setting exposes the sides and corners of the diamond, highlighting its geometric beauty. A four-prong setting is commonly used for Asscher cut diamonds, but a six-prong setting can also provide additional security.
- Bezel Setting: The bezel setting is another popular choice for Asscher cut diamonds. In this setting, a metal rim or bezel surrounds the diamond, holding it securely in place. The bezel setting offers excellent protection to the corners of the diamond, making it a durable option. Additionally, the bezel setting can create a sleek and contemporary look, emphasizing the square shape of the Asscher cut.
- Halo Setting: The halo setting is a glamorous option for Asscher cut diamonds. It features a ring of smaller diamonds or gemstones surrounding the center diamond, creating a halo effect. The halo enhances the overall brilliance of the Asscher cut diamond and adds extra sparkle to the ring. This setting can be customized with different gemstone colors to create a unique and vibrant look.
- Three-Stone Setting: The three-stone setting is a symbolic choice for and future, making it a meaningful choice for engagement or anniversary rings. The side diamonds complement the center diamond and add extra sparkle to the ring.
When choosing a setting for your Asscher cut diamond, consider your personal style and the overall look you want to achieve. Whether you prefer a classic, modern, or vintage-inspired design, there is a setting that will perfectly showcase the beauty of your Asscher cut diamond.
Consulting with a reputable jeweler can help you explore different setting options and aid you in finding the perfect Asscher cut diamond ring that will be cherished for a lifetime.
Brinker's Jewelers: Your Trusted Partner in Asscher Cut Diamond Rings
When it comes to purchasing an Asscher cut diamond ring, Brinker’s Jewelers is a name you can trust.
With a long-standing history in the industry, we have honed our expertise and curated a vast collection of stunning beautifully cut diamond rings, perfect for those seeking a unique and timeless piece of jewelry. We pride ourselves on providing exceptional customer service, guiding you through every step of the buying process to ensure you find the perfect ring to match your style and budget.
Our selection of diamond rings caters to diverse tastes and budgets. Each of our diamonds is hand selected by an owner of the company, ensuring that every diamond and ring we sell meets our high standards and provides excellent value.
We believe that buying a diamond ring should be a memorable and enjoyable experience. That’s why we strive to create a warm and welcoming environment for all our customers. We take the time to understand your needs and preferences, helping you navigate through our extensive collection and offering expert advice tailored to your specific requirements.
Image Credit: Diamond Galaxy
Asscher cut diamond rings offer a unique and timeless elegance that continues to capture the hearts of jewelry enthusiasts. From their rich history to their mesmerizing facets, there’s no denying the allure of this cut. Understanding and selecting a diamond ring may seem overwhelming at first, but armed with the right knowledge, you can ensure your purchase is a sound one.
Experience the ‘Hall of Mirrors’ effect yourself with an asscher cut diamond from Brinker’s Jewelers. We have a large variety of diamond cuts to choose from. Contact us today, browse our selection online or stop by the showroom to get started on your journey.
