Diamonds are usually characterized by their shining and lustrous appeal. Note that a gemstone must exhibit a decent light performance in order to achieve a decent sparkle. Here, the cut or the proportions and the organization of the diamond facets play a significant role. Hence, the cut is regarded as one of the most important characteristics of diamonds that can either make or ruin its appeal.
When it comes to diamond cuts, it is categorized into four options; brilliant cut, step cut, mixed, and rose cut. Obviously, every diamond cut category features its own unique pros and cons that make it standout from others. Plus, you cannot expect a particular diamond cut to fit every diamond ring settings or styles. Therefore, you must be really clear about which diamond cut suits your personality and lifestyle perfectly.
The Step Diamond Cut
Out of the above-mentioned diamond cut categories, the step cut is one of the ideal options to achieve a traditional as well as a contemporary style at the same time. The step cut is mainly characterized by the eight clear vertical lines that run through the sides of a diamond. These lines are sure to instantly draw the attention of people directly towards the center of the gemstone. In addition, you can notice a number of facets running along the width and length of the diamond in parallel lines.
Another distinct characteristic of step cut stones is their relatively larger facets that are neatly organized so as to resemble sparkling steps. Hence, it got the name. Usually, the faceting pattern of step cut diamonds may look like the step cut style of ancient temples and pyramids. Furthermore, the step cut diamonds are also celebrated for their ‘hall of mirrors’ effect. That is, this type of diamonds exhibits a mirror-like reflection rather than an impressive sparkle as a result of their flat tables and step cut pattern.
Clearly, step cut diamond rings will be perfect for people who admire vintage or sophisticated designs. In order to get an in-depth knowledge regarding this impressive diamond cut, refer to the frequently asked questions about the step diamond cut given below.
Which Diamond Cuts Belong to the Step Cut Family?
There are mainly three diamond cuts in the step cut family; Asscher cut, baguette cut, and emerald cut diamond. Usually, Asscher and emerald cut diamonds are used commonly used at the center stone for engagement rings. On the contrary, baguette stones are ideally used as the accent diamonds.
Emerald Diamond Cut
The emerald diamond cut is popular for its extreme eye-catchiness and elegance. The main attractions of emerald cut stones include elongated rectangular silhouette, tapered corners, and large table. Usually, couples who admire vintage and classic sparklers often go for emerald cut ring designs.
Asscher Diamond Cut
Asscher cut diamonds are prized for their pavilion facets that create a cross-like design at its surface. Other incredible features of the Asscher diamond cut include its square profile and tapered corners. Note that tapered corners play a key role in dealing with external shocks and damages. Asscher diamond rings are ideal for couples who adore understated and subtle diamond ring designs.
Baguette Diamond Cut
Known for the elongated profile and relatively less number of facets, baguette stones are mainly used as the accent diamonds. This is mainly because of their ability to emphasize any diamond shape without distracting the attention of people. However, millennial couples tend to choose tapered baguettes as the center diamonds for their rings in order to stand out from the crowd.
What are the Important Characteristics of the Step Diamond Cut?
Step cut diamonds mainly boast two significant characteristics. The first one is the presence of rectilinear diamond facets made of straight and parallel lines along its girdle. Apart from this, the step cut diamonds always flaunt either square or rectangular shape.
How to Buy a Step Cut Diamond
Just like all other diamond cuts, the 4C’s including the cut, clarity, color, and carat weight are the main quantifiers of step cut diamonds as well. However, clarity and the cut of diamonds are the most important factors when it comes to step cut gemstones. Since step cut diamonds feature a large table and less number of facets, it is easier for people to spot the imperfections within the stone. Hence, you must never compromise on the clarity grade of step cut stones. In the case of brilliant and mixed diamond cut, their higher number of facets and cut angles tend to mask their inclusions.
Usually, the cut quality of the step cut diamonds will not be documented in most diamond certificates. Instead, there will be the symmetry and polish grade. To have a step cut diamond with decent sparkle, it is recommended to choose a diamond that offers excellent polish and symmetry grades along with VVS2 clarity grade or more. In order to get a better idea, you may compare the brilliance of step cut diamonds of different symmetry and polish grades.
